Radiation Symbols: Teacher Answer Key
Name:	 Date:
Answer the questions for each symbol.
What do the symbols mean? Both symbols are meant to identify
an ionizing radiation source and alert people of the potential
dangers so they can take action to protect against radiation
exposure. The first (yellow) is an international symbol of
radiation, The United Nations introduced the new international
radiation symbol (red) in 2007.
Where might you see either of them? Potentially around
radioactive areas such as active or abandoned uranium mines
and mills, nuclear test and radioactive waste sites, nuclear
power plants, labs and medical sites
What actions might you or others need to take if you see either
of these symbols? Distance yourself from the area or take the
appropriate precautions when entering the area such as
wearing protective clothing, using shielding or limiting your
time in the area.
RADIOACTIVE
What does the symbol mean? There are radioactive materials
present.
Where might you see it? On trucks or trains carrying radioactive
materials or on packages containing radioactive materials.
What actions might you or others need to take if you see this
symbol? Take precautions to package, transport and handle
the materials with care.




3.
What does the symbol mean? It indicates the location of a fallout
shelter,
Where might you see it? On a public building.
What actions might you or others need to take if you see this
symbol? Going to that location in the event of a nuclear attack
or large radiological disaster.
v>EPA
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
EPA 402-B-19-014
RadTown Radiation Protection Activity Set
https:/Avww. EPA.gov/RadTown/Activitv-3-Radiation-Warning-and-Protection-Eguipment

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