ASNT Industrial Radiography Radiation Safety Practice Test

If a radiographer's survey meter shows 0 near the source, what should be assumed?

1. The source is turned off

2. The area is safe

3. The meter is inoperable

4. The calibration is incorrect

The correct answer is: The meter is inoperable

When a radiographer's survey meter shows a reading of 0 near the source, it's crucial to consider the intended function of the meter and the context of use. A survey meter is designed to measure radiation exposure, and if it's showing no reading near a radiation source, one logical assumption is that the meter is incapable of functioning correctly, indicating it may be inoperable. In a radiation safety context, it is essential to ensure that the monitoring equipment is working properly. If radiation is present near the source, the meter should register a reading proportional to the amount of radiation. A reading of 0 suggests there might be a fault preventing it from detecting radiation. Consequently, this situation calls for further investigation into the meter's operational status, verifying if it has been properly calibrated, maintained, and functioning as intended. Other implications, such as the source being off, or the area being safe, cannot be definitively drawn without first ensuring that the survey meter is operational.