Derek wrote:
> On Tue, 14 Dec 2004 23:11:19 +0100, Dada wrote:
>
>
>>Please, pardon my ignorance, but...do you own one of it? and how do
>>you use it? I mean, it sound to me like a difficult thing to use.
>>Don't know, it's a little strange to test what you eat and what you
>>drink before using it...
>
>
> Their complexity depends on the model.
>
> There's a Russian model on eBay right now that simply tells you if
> you're ok or if you're in trouble. Some will actually measure the
> amount of radiation.
>
> In its simplest form, you turn it on and point it at the object of
> study. If it makes a click (or a beep) every once in a while, you're
> safe. If it clicks A LOT and CONSTANTLY, you've got a problem.
>
> I used a Geiger counter as part of my laboratory checks when I was
> assigned the task of "radiation safety monitor." And it was frequently
> used to check the outside of packaging containing radioactive material
> to see if anything had leaked in transit.
>
> Ah, those were the days. Toxic chemicals and radioactivity all around
> me.
>

In terms of alphas specifically, I'd say under the threshold of
detection is the way to be. Alphas are nasty things to be eating.