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Due to a lapse in appropriations, the NRC has ceased normal operations. However, excepted and exempted activities necessary to maintain critical health and safety functions—as well as essential progress on designated critical activities, including those specified in Executive Order 14300—will continue, consistent with the OMB-Approved NRC Lapse Plan.

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Sources of Radiation

Since the beginning of time, all living creatures have been, and are still being, exposed to radiation. Nonetheless, most people are not aware of all the natural and man-made sources of radiation in our environment.

A chart of the public's exposure to ionizing radiation (displayed below) shows that people generally receive a total annual dose of about 620 millirem. Of this total, natural sources of radiation account for about 50 percent, while man-made sources account for the remaining 50 percent.

Pie Chart Showing Sources of Radiation Exposure in the United States

For additional information, see the following topics:

Page Last Reviewed/Updated Friday, March 20, 2020

Page Last Reviewed/Updated Friday, March 20, 2020