American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) Radiographic Testing Practice Test

Utilizing remote handling equipment when dealing with high-intensity gamma ray sources is considered the best practice due to the significant health risks posed by gamma radiation. High-intensity gamma rays can penetrate human tissue and can cause serious health complications, including radiation sickness and increased cancer risk. Remote handling minimizes direct human exposure to potentially harmful levels of radiation, ensuring that personnel maintain a safe distance while still effectively managing the source.

Remote handling tools can include robotic arms, remote-controlled devices, or specialized fixtures that allow operators to perform necessary tasks without being in the immediate vicinity of the radioactive source. This approach not only safeguards the health of the workers involved but also complies with safety regulations and best practices in radiological safety.

While protection through proper gear, lead shielding, and controlled environments is essential in radiation safety, they do not offer the same level of risk mitigation as remote handling, particularly when it comes to high-intensity sources. Lead shielding helps to attenuate radiation exposure, but it doesn't eliminate the need to handle or monitor the sources directly. In contrast, using remote handling equipment effectively separates the worker from the source, thereby maintaining safety while allowing for necessary operations.