diff --git a/code/game/dna/genes/goon_disabilities.dm b/code/game/dna/genes/goon_disabilities.dm
index 7ea73a79ddd..450973dc6a7 100644
--- a/code/game/dna/genes/goon_disabilities.dm
+++ b/code/game/dna/genes/goon_disabilities.dm
@@ -41,7 +41,7 @@
 		for(var/mob/living/L in range(1, owner))
 			if(L == owner) continue
 			L << "\red You are enveloped by a soft green glow emanating from [owner]."
-			L.radiation += 5
+			L.apply_effect(5, IRRADIATE)
 		return
 
 	OnDrawUnderlays(var/mob/M,var/g,var/fat)
@@ -390,4 +390,4 @@
 	return
 
 
-*/
\ No newline at end of file
+*/