What action should be taken if a worker's instrument is not functioning properly?

If a worker's instrument is not functioning properly, checking the instrument's calibration and service history is essential. This process ensures that the tool providing radiation measurements is accurate and reliable, which is crucial in a radiological environment where safety depends heavily on precise data. Ensuring the instrument is properly calibrated can help identify if the issue lies in the measurement itself or if the instrument requires servicing or repair.

By checking the calibration and service history, the worker can determine whether the instrument needs adjustment, has been recently maintained, or if there are any documented issues that could have caused the malfunction. This proactive approach minimizes risks and enhances safety protocols within the workplace, as using a faulty instrument could lead to improper assessments of radiation levels, risking both individual and collective safety.

Other options, such as continuing to work or replacing an instrument without proper checks, could potentially overlook critical safety issues. Utilizing another worker's instrument without approval also presents risks, as the borrowed instrument may also have unverified accuracy or reliability.