What is a primary goal of implementing contamination screening procedures?

Implementing contamination screening procedures primarily aims to minimize potential health risks to both staff and patients. When handling radioactive materials and conducting procedures involving radiation, it's crucial to ensure that these substances do not inadvertently contaminate personnel or the environment. Contamination can lead to unintended radiation exposure, which poses significant health risks, including increased chances of cancer and other radiation-related illnesses.

By employing rigorous screening procedures, facilities can detect and address any contamination issues promptly, thereby protecting individuals from harmful exposures and ensuring a safe working environment. This proactive approach is vital in maintaining safety standards in healthcare settings that utilize radioactive materials and imaging technologies.

The focus on health risks over other factors, such as cost or technology enhancement, underscores the priority given to safety in medical environments where radiation is present.