Associate Safety Professional Practice Exam

Which hazard is associated with exposure to ionizing radiation?

1. Respiratory issues

2. Acute radiation syndrome

3. Heat-related illness

4. Noise-induced hearing loss

The correct answer is: Acute radiation syndrome

Ionizing radiation is a type of energy released by atoms that can lead to significant biological effects due to its ability to ionize atoms and molecules in living tissues. One of the most serious health hazards associated with exposure to ionizing radiation is acute radiation syndrome (ARS). ARS occurs when a person receives a high dose of radiation over a short period, leading to a range of symptoms that can affect multiple organ systems. These symptoms might include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and even neurological effects, depending on the dose and duration of exposure. In contrast, other listed conditions do not have a direct association with ionizing radiation. Respiratory issues typically arise from exposure to airborne pollutants, allergens, or irritants rather than radiation. Heat-related illness pertains to excessive exposure to heat and is not linked to radiation exposure. Noise-induced hearing loss is caused by prolonged exposure to loud noises, which does not involve ionizing radiation at all. Thus, the connection between ionizing radiation and acute radiation syndrome makes it the correct and applicable hazard in this context. Understanding the risks associated with ionizing radiation is crucial for safety in environments where this type of exposure may occur, such as medical imaging, nuclear power, and certain industrial processes.