What type of radiation primarily affects X-ray personnel?

The type of radiation that primarily affects X-ray personnel is X-ray radiation. X-ray machines are designed to produce this specific type of ionizing radiation to visualize internal structures of the body for diagnostic purposes. Unlike alpha and beta radiation, which are emitted from radioactive materials and have different characteristics and penetration abilities, X-ray radiation is generated by the interaction of high-voltage electricity and a target material, typically in the form of X-ray tubes.

X-ray radiation has the appropriate energy levels to penetrate body tissues and is used extensively in medical imaging. Due to the nature of their work, personnel operating X-ray machines are often in environments where they might be exposed to scattered or secondary radiation if proper safety protocols, such as shielding and distance, are not adhered to. Therefore, understanding and mitigating exposure to X-ray radiation is crucial for the safety and health of X-ray personnel.