When should a radiation incident be reported?

Reporting a radiation incident immediately upon realization is essential in ensuring the safety of all individuals in the vicinity and protecting the environment. This immediate reporting allows for swift action to be taken, such as evacuation, decontamination, or medical attention if necessary. Quick reporting helps mitigate potential harm and ensures that appropriate measures can be enacted, such as informing health and safety authorities and implementing corrective actions to prevent further incidents.

The nature of radiation hazards means that time is often of the essence; delays in reporting can lead to increased exposure or contamination levels, putting individuals and possibly the public at risk. Therefore, it is critical to act upon first awareness of any incident involving radiation rather than waiting for specific indicators like visible signs of contamination or concluding a work shift.