Which is a fundamental principle of radiation protection?

The principle of time, distance, and shielding is fundamental to radiation protection as it directly addresses how to reduce a person's exposure to radiation. Understanding these concepts is essential for ensuring safety in environments where radiation is present.

Minimizing time spent near a radiation source limits the dose received, as exposure typically increases the longer one is in proximity to the radiation. Increasing distance from the source significantly reduces exposure due to the inverse square law, which states that radiation intensity decreases with the square of the distance from the source. Shielding involves using materials that absorb or block radiation, thus protecting individuals from harmful effects. Together, these three principles form a cohesive strategy to manage radiation risks effectively.

While emergency response procedures, cost considerations, and proper documentation are all important aspects of managing radiation work, they do not directly inform the core principles aimed at minimizing radiation exposure to workers. The focus on time, distance, and shielding is what sets the foundation for effective radiation protection practices.