Radiation FAQs

How far away from a source can I detect it if it is shielded?
Generally, our instruments will detect radiation up to 18 -24 inches through sheilding.

How often do you recommend that your instruments need to be calibrated?
We recommend yearly calibrations, although our instruments hold a stable calibration and rarely need adjusting.

What is a Typical Geiger Counter?
A Geiger counter senses ionizing radiation by means of a GM (Geiger Mueller) tube. Some tubes have a thin mica window. When a ray or particle of ionizing radiation enters or passes through the tube, it is sensed electronically and displayed on the meter or LCD and by a red count light. When the switch is in the AUDIO position, the instrument will also beep with each radiation event.

What is the MARSSIM method?
"MARSSIM" is the "Multi-Agency Radiological Survey and Site Investigation Manual," a document widely used in designing and carrying out radiological surveys in support of license termination. With the MARSSIM Method the confidence level is locked in at 95% and 3 is used for the "k²" value. This affects, then, only calculations for Ld, MDA, and LLD. This method was proposed by Dr. Alan Brodsky and was adopted in the MARSSIM manual. In truth, whether the MARSSIM method or the "traditional" method (proposed by Lloyd Currie) is used, very little difference is seen in the end result. The MARSSIM/Brodsky method should be more accurate when low background count rates are present. To match the MARSSIM methodology and Brodsky recommendations exactly, the sample counting time and background counting time should be identical, although MARSSIM does state that other methods exist that adjust for these differences.

What types of radiation do your instruments detect?
Our instruments detect ionizing radiation. Types of ionizing radiation are Alpha (a), Beta(ß), Gamma(?), X-ray (?), and Neutron Radiation. Examples of NON-ionizing radiation are microwaves and radiowaves.

Why is my instrument getting readings when there are no sources present?
The instrument is detecting the background radiation in that area. Background radiation is naturally occurring radiation all around us from cosmic radiation and radiation present in the soil.

Unless you know exactly what you are measuring and understand the limitations of detection instruments, it is possible to draw misleading conclusions from your readings. SE International design their instruments to detect the broadest range of ionizing radiation possible and still be affordable. The full spectrum of ionizing radiation cannot be measured by one single instrument. Everyone agrees that radioactive materials can be dangerous. We encourage you to seek out other sources of information.

Are any of SE International's products suitable for neutron detection?
Not currently. Neutrons are too high of an energy and too fast for standard GM tubes to detect. Neutrons need to be slowed down in order to detect them using a (BF3) boron trifluoride (uses a neutron to alpha particle conversion to get a measurement)or a High Pressure Helium 3 probe (uses a neutron to positron conversion to get a measurement).

Can your instruments detect microwaves?
No. Our instruments detect ionizing radiation. Microwaves are non-ionizing radiation. DO NOT PLACE OUR INSTRUMENTS IN A MICROWAVE AS IT MAY DAMAGE THE INSTRUMENT OR THE MICROWAVE OVEN.

Can your instruments detect Radon?
Technically, you can use the kusnetz method or the tsivoglou method with our instruments for radon detection, however, these tests should be preformed by a trained professional. There are much more practical commercially available tests for detecting radon. These are available at many home improvement stores, or you can contact your local RSO or Radiological Health Department for more information.