Radiological Safety in Laser Facilities

Abstract

High intensity lasers have the capability of producing large numbers of electrons, ions, neutrons and photons which have sufficient energy, to create measurable levels of residual activity within the host facility. Activation of experimental targets is often an experimental goal but activation of diagnostics, vacuum chambers and the facility beyond needs to be considered. Experimenters, technicians and other facility personnel will come into contact with this equipment often within minutes of a shot or short series and their safety is the central concern to any facility or programme manager. For a medical facility the safety of the patient is paramount, i.e. ensuring the radiation interacts as intended whilst minimising doses from any secondary radiations and considering all other hazards. This is often managed in two ways: Pre-experiment or treatment assessment of the likely levels of activity and subsequent dose to personnel and patients; post-experiment monitoring through remote or portable diagnostics and personal dosimeters.