Semarang, October 8, 2025. A team of lecturers from the Department of Physics, Faculty of Science and Mathematics, Diponegoro University (UNDIP), organized a community service program titled “Training and Techniques for Mitigating X-Ray Radiation Hazards.” The activity, held at SMA Negeri 1 Tahunan in Jepara Regency, was attended by around 35 physics teachers who are members of the senior high school MGMP (Subject Teachers’ Forum). The aim was to enhance understanding of safety in the use of ionizing radiation sources, particularly for educators who play a key role as the entry point for science literacy in schools.
The event was opened by Prof. Eko Hidayanto, F.Med., as the head organizer. He introduced the study programs in the UNDIP Department of Physics, the curriculum and competency achievements, as well as graduates’ career prospects. Prof. Eko also highlighted research activities and services within the Radiation and Medical Physics Expertise Group, the Medical Physicist Professional Program, and how these three areas relate to the pillars of the Tridharma: education, research, and community service.
The first session was delivered by Dr. Pandji Triadyaksa, F.Med., who explained the basic concepts of radiation and its applications in the medical, industrial, and research sectors. He emphasized two fundamental safety principles as the ethical foundation of radiation use: justification—every exposure must provide benefits that outweigh the risks—and optimization—the dose must be kept as low as reasonably achievable so that objectives are met without compromising safety.
The next material was delivered by Evi Setiawati, M.Si., F.Med., who reviewed the hazards of ionizing radiation and its effects on the human body. These effects can be acute or delayed, and are distinguished according to the types of cells affected—somatic or genetic. From a protection perspective, she explained the differentiation between deterministic effects, which appear once a dose threshold is exceeded and worsen with increasing dose, and stochastic effects, which occur randomly. Evi emphasized three practical protection principles: minimizing exposure time, maximizing distance from the source, and using proper shielding—for example, materials with lead (Pb) lining. She also outlined response measures and preparedness procedures in case of leakage or an incident.
The closing session was led by Zaenal Arifin, M.Si., F.Med., through a simulation of measuring and detecting radiation sources using detectors and survey meters. Participants also practiced using personal protective equipment, including lead-lined aprons, to understand safe working standards in environments with potential radiation exposure.
Throughout the program, participants actively engaged in discussions and raised questions regarding the implementation of safety principles in schools as well as in simple laboratory settings. Their enthusiasm reflected the need to strengthen radiation literacy at the secondary education level, while also reinforcing the event’s key message: radiation provides significant benefits when used correctly, and safety is a non-negotiable prerequisite.
