Define 'contamination' in radiological terms.

In radiological terms, contamination refers to the presence of radioactive material on surfaces or within materials. This means that radioactive particles have come into contact with or been deposited on a surface, such as equipment, clothing, or skin, which can pose health risks and complicate decontamination efforts. Understanding this definition is crucial for managing safety in environments where radioactive materials are present, as it helps identify areas that need to be controlled or cleaned to prevent the spread of radiation.

The idea of contamination is central to safety protocols in nuclear facilities, hospitals that handle radioactive materials, and areas affected by radiological events. This definition contrasts with other aspects of radiation safety, such as shielding, which involves protecting against radiation exposure rather than dealing with radioactive materials that have settled on surfaces. Safe disposal of radioactive materials and exposure to radiation also concern different aspects of radiation safety, rather than the definition of contamination itself.