eli5 How come if highly radioactive radium was on watches that the wearers didn’t succumb to radiation poisoning at the wrist?

Question

eli5 How come if highly radioactive radium was on watches that the wearers didn’t succumb to radiation poisoning at the wrist?

In: 186

Answer 1

As others explained, women hired to paint the face of watches so they would glow in the dark. They were told it was harmless and to use their lips on the brush tips.

It is a reason why organized labour and enforced health and safety laws is important.