I inherited my grandfather’s WWII compass, and had it sitting around for a long time on a shelf. I recently got a Geiger counter, and find that it’s radioactive. Around 10 microsieverts/hr. Apparently they used radium paint to make them glow in the dark. I can’t just throw it away, but I don’t want it potentially causing a danger to others in the room. Is there some sort of lead lined box I can put it in, or some kind of prevention I can do? Is there anyone experienced with this sort of thing that can offer some advice?
Nuclear physicist here!
I agree with the general consensus in the comments. Alpha radiation from radium is easily stopped by a few centimeters of air, a sheet of paper, and even the dead layer of cells on the outside of your skin. So long as you don’t eat, inhale or inject the radium, you’ll be fine.
I wouldn’t keep it on your person for an extended period of time though - for example carrying it in your pocket every day, sleeping with it under your pillow, etc. Store it somewhere safe and not immediately next to your skin; the back of a drawer or on a shelf would be fine. Feel free to use it or show it to people from time to time. That’s a neat piece of history to have!
Just in case, keep a label or warning text with it wherever you store it, OP.
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