Ace the 2025 Radiation Safety Exam – Energize Your Path to Success!

Depleted uranium presents chemical hazards in addition to its radiation risks. Depleted uranium is a dense metal that is often used in military applications and armor-piercing ammunition. When depleted uranium particles are ingested or inhaled, they can cause chemical toxicity, particularly to the kidneys. This chemical toxicity arises because uranium is a heavy metal that can interfere with biological processes in the body.

Aside from the radiological concerns that come from exposure to ionizing radiation, the potential for chemical effects from depleted uranium is significant. The kidney is especially vulnerable to damage from high levels of uranium exposure, which can lead to nephrotoxicity, affecting kidney function and potentially leading to long-term health issues.

In addition to these concerns, while other forms of hazards exist, such as metabolic or biological hazards, the primary health risk associated with depleted uranium exposure is its potential as a chemical toxicant. Therefore, the recognition of depleted uranium as a source of chemical hazards is critical in assessing the overall health risks it presents.