The major concern for individuals working with this isotope is the possibility of an internal exposure. Such an exposure may occur if an individual contaminates bare skin, accidentally ingests the material, or breathes it in the form of a gas or vapor (usually radioactive CO2).

Is radioactive carbon dangerous?

Carbon-14 Safety Precautions. Hazard: The beta radiation from mCi quantities is not an external radiation hazard. However, ingestion and inhalation may result in an internal exposure.