What does a radiation survey help to determine?

A radiation survey is primarily used to assess the radiation levels in a given area, which includes measuring and mapping the intensity of radiation present. When focusing on the effectiveness of shielding, the survey can help determine how well protective barriers or materials are reducing radiation exposure. By checking the radiation levels before and after applying shielding, operators can evaluate whether the shielding materials are functioning as intended and if additional measures are needed to ensure safety.

While other options involve important aspects of radiation safety, they do not represent the main purpose of a radiation survey. For example, assessing the total radioactivity in an area and identifying the source of radiation leaks are specific objectives that may follow the initial survey, but the survey itself is more about measuring existing radiation levels. Furthermore, determining the previous dose received by an operator is typically beyond the scope of what a radiation survey provides, as it focuses on real-time measurement rather than historical dose assessment.