Radiation Safety Practice Exam

What characteristic should the plastic bags have when double-bagging radioactive materials?

1. They should be transparent and light-weight.

2. They should be strong enough to hold the contents securely.

3. They should be colorful to signify danger.

4. They should be small and discreet.

The correct answer is: They should be strong enough to hold the contents securely.

The requirement for plastic bags used in double-bagging radioactive materials centers on the need for strength and durability. Radioactive materials can vary widely in size, weight, and physical properties. Therefore, the bags must be robust enough to securely contain the materials, preventing any leaks or spills that could pose a safety hazard. Using strong bags ensures that even if the outer bag is subjected to punctures or tears during handling or transport, the inner bag will still provide an additional layer of containment. This is a critical aspect of radiation safety practice since it helps to minimize the risk of contamination to the environment or exposure to personnel. While other characteristics like transparency, color, size, or discreetness may offer some benefits in specific scenarios, they do not address the primary safety concern of securely containing potentially hazardous material. The emphasis on strength and reliability of the bags is essential in maintaining radiation safety protocols.