This is a comprehensive account of the nature of the hazards presented by ionizing radiation and the methods of protection. It takes the reader through the general background of the subject, the underlying principles applied to the control of radiation hazards (including chapters on human physiology, the biological effects of radiation and radiation detection and measurement), before moving to specialized topics such as medical applications and waste disposal.;This edition has been revised and updated to reflect the significant changes that have occurred in this area in recent years. The most recent ICRP recommendations are included, the section on legislation has been expanded to emphasize the European and International requirements in addition to those of the UK, while the chapter on radiological emergencies has been rewritten to highlight international developments arising from the Chernobyl disaster.