This book provides a comprehensive yet accessible overview of all relevant topics in the field of radiation protection (health physics). The text is organized to introduce the reader to basic principles of radiation emission and propagation, to review current knowledge and historical aspects of the biological effects of radiation, and to cover important operational topics such as radiation shielding and dosimetry. The author's website contains materials for instructors including PowerPoint slides for lectures and worked-out solutions to end-of-chapter exercises. The book serves as an essential handbook for practicing health physics professionals.

Table of Contents

Introduction to Health Physics.- Scientific Fundamentals.- Fundamentals of Radiation and Radioactivity.- Interaction of Radiation with Matter.- Quantification of Radiation Interaction.- Biological Effects of Radiation.- Advisory and Regulatory Organizations.- Radiation Instrumentation.- External Dose Assessment.- Internal Dose Assessment.- Radiation Protection Practice/Evaluation.- Environmental Health Physics.- Nonionizing Radiation.

Reviews

From the reviews: "This introduction to health physics is meant to serve as the basis for a two-course series in the study of radiation protection. ! The book is meant for individuals wishing to study radiation protection/health physics. ! the chapters discuss advanced concepts and mathematical models that are appropriate individuals seeking an in-depth understanding of radiation protection. ! very useful as teaching text. It is clear and concise and the problems and examples further elucidate the material." (Dean W. Broga, Doody's Review Service, August, 2008) "The book, provides a definition for HP and a broad overview of the field. ! a comprehensive text providing an overview of all relevant topics of HP. ! the book can serve either as a reference for the practising HP or as a text for a course. ! present the most up-to-date treatment of the topics covered." (Michael P. Grissom, Radiation Protection Dosimetry, Vol. 138 (4), 2010)