What can be used in a radiation area to minimize a worker's external radiation exposure?

Temporary shielding is an effective method for minimizing a worker's external radiation exposure in a radiation area. Shielding can take various forms, including lead, concrete, or other materials that absorb or deflect radiation. By placing this shielding between the radiation source and the worker, the intensity of the radiation that reaches the worker can be significantly reduced, thereby decreasing the overall dose received.

While other measures such as wearing radiological PPE coveralls, using air blowers, and employing personnel monitoring equipment have their roles in radiation safety, they do not directly reduce the level of radiation exposure in the same way that temporary shielding does. PPE primarily protects the skin and does not necessarily decrease exposure from radiation that penetrates clothing. Air blowers may aid in ventilation or removing airborne contaminants but do not provide protection against external radiation. Personnel monitoring equipment is crucial for tracking exposure levels, but it does not mitigate the radiation itself. Thus, the use of temporary shielding is the most effective strategy to directly reduce external radiation exposure in a work area.