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: [[Alpha Particle|Alpha]] sources are kept inside a block of [[lead]] with a hole that only allows the [[Alpha Particle|alpha particles]] out in one direction.
: Outside the body an [[organism]] can be protected from [[Alpha Particle|alpha radiation]] by keeping a distance greater than 5cm or by covering any bare skin.
: Inside an [[organism]] [[Alpha Particle|alpha particle]]s are the most dangerous as they are highly [[Ionising Radiation|ionising]] and there is nothing inside an [[organism]] to block them [[Ionising Radiation|ionising]] biological [[molecule]]s like [[DNA]]. Every precaution must be taken not to [[Radioactive Contamination|contaminate]] the skin with the [[Alpha Particle|alpha]] source in case it finds its way into the body through a cut or the mouth.
: When handling a source of [[Alpha Particle|alpha radiation]] the precautions which should be taken are:
:*Wear gloves.