Environmental radiation survey instruments are designed to evaluate which of the following?

• A. Radiation output of X-ray machines
• B. Radioactive contamination
• C. Occupational radiation dose
• D. Non-ionizing radiation dose

Answer: (B)

Environmental radiation survey instruments are used to detect and quantify radioactive contamination in the work environment. They are designed to find whether radioactive material has contaminated surfaces or areas, so you can clean up and verify that decontamination is complete to protect people and the surrounding environment. This focus on contamination distinguishes them from devices that check X-ray machine output (which assess machine performance) or from personal dosimeters (which track an individual’s occupational dose). They also deal with ionizing radiation from radioactive sources, not non‑ionizing radiation. In practice, these instruments—such as contamination meters and swipe-test tools—help confirm that contamination levels are within regulatory limits and that the area is safe for work.