Radiation Safety Practice Exam

What action helps to prevent the spread of contamination?

1. Restricting access to the area

2. Monitoring personnel before they exit the area

3. Providing a cleaning station

4. Using heavy-duty gloves

The correct answer is: Monitoring personnel before they exit the area

Monitoring personnel before they exit the area is crucial in preventing the spread of contamination. This process involves checking individuals for any radioactive particles or materials that may be present on their clothing, skin, or equipment. By ensuring that anyone leaving a contaminated zone is free of contamination, the risk of carrying radioactive substances to clean areas is significantly reduced. Such monitoring can include the use of radiation detection devices that can identify hazards that are not visible to the naked eye. This step acts as a final precautionary measure before personnel re-enter areas where no contamination is expected, thereby maintaining the integrity of those clean areas. While restricting access to contaminated areas, providing cleaning stations, and using heavy-duty gloves are important safety practices, they primarily focus on limiting initial exposure or managing existing contamination rather than directly preventing the spread of contamination as personnel exit. Monitoring personnel specifically targets the detection and prevention of contamination transfer, making it a vital component in radiation safety protocols.