What is the maximum allowable activity for a sealed source leak test?

The correct answer identifies the maximum allowable activity for a sealed source leak test as 5 nanocuries (nCi). In the context of radiation safety, sealed sources are utilized in various applications, including medical and industrial settings. Regular leak testing is crucial to ensure that these sources do not release radioactive material into the environment, which could pose significant health risks.

The established regulatory limit for a leak test generally indicates that if a sealed source contains leakage activity greater than 5 nCi, it is deemed unacceptable and must be addressed. This threshold helps safeguard both the personnel who handle the sources and the general public by establishing a clear standard for intervention.

Regular leak tests with this specified limit are part of maintaining safety protocols and regulatory compliance, reinforcing the importance of adequately controlling and monitoring the potential hazards posed by radioactive materials.