What defines a 'contamination survey'?

A contamination survey is primarily defined as a systematic process to detect radioactive contamination in an area. This involves using specialized instruments and techniques to identify the presence of radioactive materials on surfaces, in the air, or within equipment. The goal of such a survey is to assess the extent of contamination, which is crucial for ensuring safety and compliance with regulatory standards.

Conducting contamination surveys is vital in environments where radioactive materials are used or stored, allowing for appropriate decontamination measures to be implemented if necessary. This process helps to protect both personnel and the public from potential exposure to harmful radiation levels by ensuring that contaminated areas are identified and managed effectively.

The other options, while related to radiation safety and management, do not specifically encapsulate the primary purpose of a contamination survey. For instance, assessing personnel exposure concerns individual safety rather than area contamination detection. Evaluating waste disposal methods focuses on how radioactive waste is managed rather than on identifying contamination in the environment. Managing radioactive materials inventory is related to tracking materials rather than assessing contamination levels. Hence, the systematic approach of option B aligns directly with the definition and purpose of a contamination survey.