I have recently gotten into particle physics and would like to build a cyclotron (1950s version). Just looking to open a forum for discussion of physics ideas. One of my questions is what are the dangers in building and operating one and how can these dangers be managed?

I know Bremmstahlung Radiation is a hazard. And I am wondering if there is any hazard in the ionization of hydrogen gas using thermionic emission. It seems that the latter could ignite the hydrogen. YIKES! But is this problem eliminated in a vaccum chamber?