What is a significant concern when handling radioactive materials?

When handling radioactive materials, a significant concern is the potential contamination of the environment. Radioactive materials can pose serious health risks not only to the individuals directly handling them but also to the surrounding ecosystem. If these materials are not managed properly, they can leak or be released into the environment, leading to contamination of soil, water sources, and air.

This contamination can have long-term effects on the health of living organisms, including humans, as radiation exposure can lead to various health issues such as cancer or genetic mutations. Therefore, it is crucial to implement strict safety protocols and containment measures when working with radioactive materials to prevent any contamination and safeguard both public health and the environment.

Other concerns, such as the cost, weight, or color of the materials, while relevant to specific contexts, do not encompass the broader and more critical issue of environmental safety associated with the handling of radioactive substances.