Radioisotope Information: PHOSPHORUS - 32
(32P)

Physical Half-life: 14.29 days
Radiations: -ß 1709 keV
External Exposure: The unshielded ß doses from 1 mCi of 32P are 13,778 mRad/hr at 5 cm; 3443 mRad at 10 cm; 141 mRad/hr at 50 cm
Biological Data: ALI 0.6 mCi(ingestion), 0.9 mCi(inhalation)
Biological half-life 257 days
Effective half-life 13.5 days
Critical Organs Bone and whole body
Bioassay Urinalysis
Shielding: Plexiglass is recommended.
Range of ß in air is 20' and 0.3" in lucite.
Monitoring
& Efficiency		 LSC (Eff. ~90%)
Thin-window GM (Eff. ~25%)

Special Considerations

  • The dose at contact of a 1 mCi vial of 32P is in the order of 1000 mRad/hr. Avoid handling unshielded stock vials with your hands, use forceps with rubber sleeves, and work at arms length.
  • A microcurie of 32P on a cm2 of skin gives a dose of about 8000 rads per hour. Wear gloves, lab coat and safety glasses when handling radioactive solutions.
  • Wear a radiation badge when handling 1.0 mCi or more of 32P.
  • Monitor hands and work areas during and immediately after work. Document survey results.
  • Utilize shielding; do not put your hands over open containers.

For additional information contact the Radiation Safety Program at 229-4275.

Updated March 4, 2008 by SAK