Radiation is everywhere. Life would not exist on Earth without radiation from the sun. Additionally, many important technological activities are based on radiation, such as radio and telecommunications. Another type of radiation is used for producing X-ray images in industrial and medical applications. Radiation is also emitted as a side effect from various technological activities. Some types of radiation are known to be harmful to human beings and need to be carefully managed. Other types are not believed to be dangerous, but are a source of worry among the general public. An example is possible radiation risks from power lines, cellular phones, and cellular base stations, which since the 1980s have received considerable media attention.

Protection of humans and the environment from the harmful effects of radiation is called radiation protection. The field of radiation protection evaluates scientific knowledge of adverse health effects from radiation and influences legislation...