RADIO-FREQUENCY RADIATION HAZARDS

x-rays as shown in figure 3-2. You will be concerned primarily with radio frequency (RF) and laser hazards. RADIO-FREQUENCY RADIATION HAZARDS Radiation from antennas fed by high-powered, radio-frequency (RF) transmitters has the potential to directly injure the soft tissue of personnel who are near the radiating antennas. These injuries result from the tissue being “cooked” in a manner similar to the way food is cooked in a microwave oven. Transmitters aboard ships, on aircraft, and at shore stations are potential sources of harmful radiation. The sensations caused by exposure to excessive RF radiation vary. You should remain alert in any area in which you may be exposed to RF radiation because, at some frequencies, exposure to excessive levels of RF radiation will not produce a noticeable sensation of pain or discomfort to give warning that injury may be occurring. Radiated RF energy can also cause indirect injury to personnel by inducing high RF voltage levels in metal objects. If you touch such an object while it contains a high RF voltage, you will likely receive an RF burn. The current will produce heat as it overcomes the resistance of your skin. The effect of the heat may range from warmth to a painful burn. LASER RADIATION HAZARDS The word laser is the acronym for light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation. A laser is a concentrated beam of optical radiation. As a technology has increased, the use of lasers has increased from industrial and medical purposes to both offensive and defensive military purposes. 3-6 ATTENTION Static Sensitive Devices Handle Only at Static Safe Work Stations Reusable Container Do Not Destroy MIL STD 129H Symbol ATTENTION Static Sensitive Contents Destructable Handling Precautions Required Contents JEDEC 14 Symbol CAUTION CONTENTS SUBJECT TO DAMAGE BY STATIC ELECTRICITY DO NOT OPEN EXCEPT AT APPROVED STATIC-FREE WORK STATION 70102 FCf03001 Figure 3-1.—ESD warning symbols.