ASNT Industrial Radiography Radiation Safety Practice Test

What should you do if your survey meter becomes inoperable?

1. Call the NRC for assistance

2. Follow company operating and emergency procedures

3. Wait for a scheduled maintenance

4. Use a backup meter without instruction

The correct answer is: Follow company operating and emergency procedures

When a survey meter becomes inoperable, the appropriate course of action is to follow company operating and emergency procedures. These procedures are established to ensure safety and compliance with regulations related to radiation safety. They typically provide specific guidelines on how to handle equipment failures, including reporting the issue, using backup equipment correctly, ensuring that personnel are safe, and mitigating any potential exposure. In contrast, relying solely on a backup meter without proper instruction could introduce risks, as the person may not be correctly trained to use that equipment effectively, potentially leading to further safety issues. Waiting for scheduled maintenance could delay the response to the inoperability and not address any immediate safety concerns. Calling the NRC is not usually the first step unless there is a regulatory issue or a serious safety concern that cannot be resolved internally. Following company procedures ensures that all actions taken are in alignment with established safety protocols, promoting a safe working environment and compliance with legal requirements.