What is the recommended practice for handling radioactive materials in a lab?

Minimizing exposure time and maintaining distance is fundamental to safely handling radioactive materials in a lab setting. Radioactive materials emit radiation, which can pose health risks. By limiting the time spent in close proximity to these materials, the total radiation dose received is reduced. Additionally, increasing the distance from the source of radiation significantly decreases exposure because radiation intensity diminishes as distance increases — this principle is well established in radiation safety practices.

Effective safety protocols also include using shielding where appropriate, but the most straightforward and effective measures are to minimize handling time and maximize distance. This approach significantly mitigates potential hazards and is a cornerstone of radiation protection guidelines in laboratory environments.