Alpha particles are the most ionising. When they collide with the atoms in living cells, they remove electrons from the atoms. This can damage the DNA inside the cell, which can lead to uncontrolled growth or a tumour. However, they are the least penetrating, and so can be stopped from entering the body by gloves. Beta particles are less ionising but can penetrate the body and cause damage. Gamma rays are only weakly ionising; they are usually less hazardous than alpha or beta.