What does the term "contamination" refer to in radiation safety?

The term "contamination" in radiation safety specifically refers to the presence of radioactive materials on surfaces or within the human body. This definition is critical for understanding safety protocols in environments where radioactive materials are used, such as hospitals or research facilities. Contamination poses a significant risk because it can lead to unwanted exposure to radiation for both patients and personnel.

When radioactive materials are present on surfaces, they can be easily transferred to other objects or individuals, increasing the likelihood of exposure. Contamination within the human body can lead to health issues, as the radioactive material may emit radiation that affects bodily tissues. Thus, controlling and monitoring contamination is essential in maintaining safety in environments that utilize radioactive materials.

Other options address concepts related to radiation safety but do not accurately represent what contamination specifically entails. For instance, the presence of non-radioactive materials on surfaces does not involve any radioactive materials and therefore does not fit the definition of contamination. Additionally, the absence of radiation in a controlled environment and measurements of radiation levels in the air are regarding radiation monitoring and control, rather than contamination itself.