Associate Safety Professional Practice Exam

What is the first action to take if a radium powder spill occurs in a lab?

1. Clean the spill immediately

2. Alert a supervisor

3. Evacuate personnel and reroute traffic

4. Contain the spill with absorbent materials

The correct answer is: Evacuate personnel and reroute traffic

In the event of a radium powder spill, the immediate priority is to ensure the safety of all personnel in the area. The correct first action is to evacuate personnel and reroute traffic. This step is crucial because radioactive materials pose serious health risks, not only to those directly involved in the spill but also to anyone nearby. Evacuation helps to minimize exposure to radiation and prevents additional individuals from being harmed. Rerouting traffic ensures that emergency responders can access the site without delay and that others are not put at risk by entering the contaminated area. Once personnel are evacuated and the area is secured, appropriate protocols for handling the spill can then be followed, which may involve notifying a supervisor and implementing containment and cleanup measures. Following safety protocols in hazardous situations is essential to manage risks effectively and ensure everyone’s safety.