Radiation Safety Practice Exam

Which of the following situations is an example of an incident that must be reported?

1. An ammunition specialist's dosimetry report shows a higher than normal reading

2. An X-ray technician receives a 120 mREM dose from an unplanned exposure

3. A unit loses a tritium device

4. All of the above

The correct answer is: All of the above

The indicated choice encompasses various incidents that each represent a scenario requiring reporting due to safety and regulatory protocols surrounding radiation exposure and management. The first situation, where an ammunition specialist's dosimetry report reveals a higher than normal reading, is critical because it indicates potential overexposure to radiation, which needs to be investigated to ensure that safety measures are adequate and that personnel are protected from unnecessary harm. The second scenario, involving an X-ray technician who receives a 120 mREM dose from an unplanned exposure, is similarly significant. Unplanned exposures must be reported to assess compliance with safety regulations, evaluate the effectiveness of radiation protection practices, and determine if further actions are needed to prevent recurrence. The third incident, which involves a loss of a tritium device, is also a serious matter. Tritium, being a radioactive substance, poses environmental and health risks if not accounted for properly. The loss of such a device must be reported immediately to mitigate any potential risks it may pose to public safety and the environment. In summary, each of these situations involves scenarios that could have implications for safety, regulation, and health, making the decision to report them essential for maintaining a safe working environment in relation to radiation.