Texas Industrial Radiography Gamma Practice Test

What factor can adversely affect the accuracy of Film Badge readings?

1. Strong winds

2. Excessive heat

3. Radio waves

4. None of the above

The correct answer is: Excessive heat

Excessive heat can adversely affect the accuracy of Film Badge readings because film badges contain photo-sensitive materials that can be altered by elevated temperatures. When exposed to excessive heat, the development process of the film can be accelerated or otherwise affected, leading to inaccurate readings of radiation exposure. This can result in either an underestimation or overestimation of the amount of radiation to which an individual has been exposed, compromising the effectiveness of the monitoring system designed to protect workers from excessive radiation. On the other hand, strong winds and radio waves do not have a direct impact on the film’s sensitivity or development process. Wind may affect the physical conditions at the work site but does not interact with the chemical processes of the film. Similarly, radio waves do not influence the film exposure in a way that would change readings, as film badges are designed specifically to respond to ionizing radiation rather than non-ionizing forms such as radio frequencies. Therefore, excessive heat stands out as the significant factor that can impair the integrity of Film Badge readings.