A curious case: A criminal exposure to X-rays

Abstract

In 1989, following a workplace conflict, a worker activated an industrial radiography generator exposing a colleague to a significant amount of ionizing radiation. To our knowledge, this is the only documented case where an X-ray machine was used to commit a criminal act. Since the incident, 35 years have passed. Using the scientific information gathered at the time, we have attempted to create the clearest possible picture of this event. Although scientific knowledge has advanced since then, the overall assessment remains unchanged. An important lesson to be drawn from this crime is the significance of taking early actions to identify the level of exposure and ensure timely intervention to minimize the consequences for the victim. Another takeaway from this event is the numerous challenges the worker faced in having his situation acknowledged by both law enforcement authorities and various government agencies, given the unique nature of the incident.