Radiation Safety Practice Exam

Which agency oversees the regulation of radioactive materials?

1. FDA

2. EPA

3. NRC

4. OSHA

The correct answer is: NRC

The agency that oversees the regulation of radioactive materials is the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC). The NRC is responsible for ensuring the safe use of radioactive materials for civilian purposes. This includes establishing regulatory requirements for nuclear power plants, medical applications, nuclear waste management, and other activities involving radioactive materials. The NRC's mandate encompasses the licensing and oversight of entities that handle radioactive materials, ensuring compliance with safety standards to protect public health and the environment. The agency conducts inspections, monitors compliance, and enforces laws governing radiation safety, making it a central authority in the regulation of activities related to radioactivity. The other agencies mentioned, such as the FDA (Food and Drug Administration), EPA (Environmental Protection Agency), and OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration), have distinct roles in health and environmental protection but do not solely regulate radioactive materials. The FDA focuses on the safety of food and drugs, the EPA works on environmental protection including pollution, and OSHA is concerned with workplace safety standards. Each of these agencies may interact with radioactive materials within their jurisdiction but does not specifically oversee their regulation like the NRC does.