Wright Haskell Langham

American radiobiologist and health physicist

Wright Haskell Langham (1911–1972) was a prominent American radiobiologist and health physicist known for his pioneering work in the field of radiation safety and plutonium research. He played a significant role in the development of safety protocols for handling radioactive materials and contributed to the understanding of the biological effects of radiation exposure.

Early Life and Education

Wright Haskell Langham was born in 1911. He pursued his higher education in the field of chemistry, earning a degree that laid the foundation for his future contributions to radiobiology and health physics. His academic background equipped him with the knowledge necessary to tackle the challenges associated with radioactive materials.

Career

Langham's career was primarily associated with the Los Alamos National Laboratory, where he worked on projects related to the Manhattan Project. His expertise in radiobiology was crucial in understanding the effects of plutonium on human health. Langham's research was instrumental in establishing safety standards for the handling and disposal of radioactive substances.

Wright Haskell Langham with "Plastic Man"

Contributions to Radiobiology

Langham's work in radiobiology focused on the effects of plutonium exposure on the human body. He conducted studies that helped determine the safe levels of exposure and developed methods for monitoring and mitigating the risks associated with radiation. His research contributed to the establishment of guidelines that are still in use today for the protection of workers in nuclear facilities.

Health Physics and Safety Protocols

As a health physicist, Langham was involved in creating safety protocols for the handling of radioactive materials. His work ensured that the risks associated with radiation exposure were minimized, protecting both workers and the environment. Langham's contributions to health physics have had a lasting impact on the field, influencing safety standards worldwide.

Thule Accident

Langham was also involved in the investigation of the Thule Air Base B-52 crash in 1968, where a B-52 Stratofortress carrying nuclear weapons crashed in Greenland. His expertise was crucial in assessing the radiological impact of the accident and in the cleanup efforts that followed.

Documents Concerning Thule Accident

Legacy

Wright Haskell Langham's contributions to radiobiology and health physics have left a lasting legacy in the field of radiation safety. His work has influenced the development of safety standards and protocols that continue to protect individuals working with radioactive materials. Langham's research has been foundational in the understanding of the biological effects of radiation, and his efforts have paved the way for future advancements in the field.

Related Pages

• Radiobiology
• Health physics
• Plutonium
• Los Alamos National Laboratory
• Manhattan Project
• Thule Air Base B-52 crash