What annual check is performed on protective apparel to detect cracks?

• A. Visual inspection only
• B. Fluoroscopic inspection for cracks
• C. No check
• D. Thermal testing

Answer: (B)

Cracking in protective apparel can be hidden from plain sight, so surface checks may miss hairline or internal cracks that compromise shielding. Fluoroscopic inspection uses X-rays to image the interior of the garment, revealing cracks, voids, or delamination in the shielding layers that would allow more radiation to pass through than intended. Because the gear ages and bends with use, an annual fluoroscopic check provides a sensitive, non-destructive way to confirm its integrity. Visual inspection alone may miss defects, and thermal testing is not a reliable method for detecting cracks in lead-based shielding. Skipping checks would risk undetected loss of shielding performance.