What is the typical minimum thickness of shielding required for cobalt-60 sources?

The typical minimum thickness of shielding required for cobalt-60 sources is indeed dependent on the energy of the radiation being emitted, which is characteristic of cobalt-60. Cobalt-60 is a gamma emitter with a significant energy level, and the effectiveness of shielding material varies based on this energy.

When selecting an appropriate shielding material and thickness for cobalt-60, a radiation safety professional must consider the specific gamma energy of the source, which is around 1.17 and 1.33 MeV. The attenuation of radiation through a material can differ significantly depending on its density and atomic number, making it essential to match the shielding strategy to the specific energy of the radiation.

In practical applications, a more substantial shielding requirement might be presented (like lead blocks or concrete walls) to reduce exposure levels to safe limits, but the exact thickness is indeed contingent on the radiation energy, the type of material used for shielding, and the desired level of radiation protection. Therefore, tailoring the shielding to the energy of the source is critical in ensuring effective radiation safety and compliance with regulatory standards.