Editing Promethium (section)

==Precautions==
The element has no biological role. Promethium-147 can emit gamma rays,  which are dangerous for all lifeforms, during its [[beta decay]].<ref name="Simmons1964">{{cite journal|title = Reed Business Information|year = 1964|author = Simmons, Howard|journal = New Scientist|page = 292|volume = 22|issue = 389}}</ref> Interactions with tiny quantities of promethium-147 are not hazardous if certain precautions are observed.<ref name="Army1987">{{cite book|title=Operator, organizational, direct support, and general support maintenance manual: installation, operation, and checkout procedures for Joint-Services Interior Intrusion Detection System (J-SIIDS).|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=JfoXAAAAYAAJ&pg=PP5|year=1991|publisher=Headquarters, Departments of the Army, Navy, and Air Force|page=5}}</ref> In general, gloves, footwear covers, safety glasses, and an outer layer of easily removed protective clothing should be used.<ref name="Pmlist" />

It is not known what human organs are affected by interaction with promethium; a possible candidate is the [[bone tissue]]s.<ref name="Pmlist" /> Sealed promethium-147 is not dangerous. However, if the packaging is damaged, then promethium becomes dangerous to the environment and humans. If [[radioactive contamination]] is found, the contaminated area should be washed with water and soap, but, even though promethium mainly affects the skin, the skin should not be abraded. If a promethium leak is found, the area should be identified as hazardous and evacuated, and emergency services must be contacted. No dangers from promethium aside from the radioactivity are known.<ref name="Pmlist">{{cite web |title=Radioactive Material Safety Data Sheet |author1=Stuart Hunt |author2=Associates Lt. |name-list-style=amp |url=https://www.stuarthunt.com/uploads/downloads/RMSDS%20Documents/Promethium-147-Sealed.pdf |access-date=2012-02-10 |archive-date=2021-09-15 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915131347/https://www.stuarthunt.com/uploads/downloads/RMSDS%20Documents/Promethium-147-Sealed.pdf |url-status=dead }}</ref>