Signage and IAEA Basics

What is Signage?

• Signage refers to any kind of visual graphics created to convey information to a particular audience.
• It includes signs, symbols, and other visual elements designed to communicate a message.

International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)

• The IAEA develops safety standards and nuclear security guidance for ensuring nuclear safety and security worldwide.
• The IAEA collaborates with other United Nations bodies, such as the United Nations Scientific Committee on the Effects of Atomic Radiation (UNSCEAR).
• The IAEA outlines the fundamental principles, requirements, and recommendations for ensuring nuclear safety and security, including the rules and requirements of the radiation symbol usage.

The Standardized International Design Ionizing Radiation Symbol

• The circle in the middle of the trefoil represents an atom.
• The blades represent the 3 common types of ionizing radiation emanating from it — alpha (α), beta (β) and gamma (γ).
• The symbol is as big as A4 paper.

History of Ionizing Radiation Symbol

• The symbol was first designed in 1946 at the University of California Radiation Laboratory.
• By the late 1950s, the ANSI had codified the official version — magenta on yellow, which is still used in the United States of America today.

Common Signage at X-Ray Department

• Signage informs workers and the public that they are in radiation areas.
• Signage reminds pregnant women about the radiation that could potentially harm the baby, even causing birth defects.
• Signage alerts people when x-ray equipment is active, accompanied by a red light.

Signage That You Can Find in Biomedical Imaging Department - Faculty of Medicine

• General X-Ray
• Fluoroscopy
• Mammography
• CT Scan
• Nuclear Medicine
• ERCP
• ESWL
• Operation Theater

Ionizing-Radiation Warning — Supplementary Symbol

• The supplementary symbol was introduced in 2007 to emphasize nuclear safety and security.
• The symbol is designed to be universally understood as ‘Danger — Run Away — Do Not Touch!’.
• The symbol is used when high-activity radioactive sources which exposure could cause death or serious personal injury.

Conclusion

• Radiation symbols are designed to clearly warn about radiation hazards, ensuring people stay safe and follow protocols.
• The symbols must be informed about risks and safety measures, promote adherence to guidelines, and be easily understood worldwide.
• The symbols are not meant to frighten people but to let patients and visitors know they are in an area with ongoing radiation.

Learn about signage, a visual way to convey information, and the International Atomic Energy Agency, which promotes nuclear safety and security globally.