What should be done before starting any work with radioactive materials?

Before starting any work with radioactive materials, it is essential to read and understand safety protocols. This step is crucial because safety protocols are designed to provide essential guidelines that help ensure the health and safety of all workers involved in handling such materials. These protocols outline the hazards associated with radioactive materials, appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) to use, and emergency procedures in case of accidental exposure or contamination.

Understanding these protocols empowers workers to recognize potential risks, follow proper handling procedures, and respond effectively in emergencies. Knowledge of safety protocols also helps foster a culture of safety within the workplace, where employees are conscious of the importance of radiation protection practices. This foundational understanding is necessary for maintaining compliance with regulatory standards and best practices in radiation safety.

The other options, while they may have their context within a broader operational framework, do not specifically address the immediate need for awareness and preparation that reading and understanding safety protocols provides.