What does 'shielding' refer to in radiation safety?

Shielding in radiation safety refers to the use of protective barriers designed to attenuate or block the radiation emitted from a source before it can reach a person. These barriers can be made from various materials, such as lead, concrete, or specialized shielding materials, depending on the type and intensity of radiation being addressed. The purpose of shielding is to reduce radiation exposure to safe levels, thereby minimizing the risk of harmful effects, such as tissue damage or increased risk of cancer.

This concept is a fundamental principle of radiation protection, which also includes practices such as time management and distance from the source, but shielding specifically focuses on the physical barriers that serve as a first line of defense against radiation. Other options, while relevant to safety protocols, do not directly pertain to the function of shielding in the context of radiation safety.