What is the minimum thickness of primary barriers in an x-ray room?

The minimum thickness of primary barriers in an x-ray room is typically established to effectively attenuate the radiation produced during x-ray procedures. Primary barriers are designed to shield against the direct beam of radiation, providing adequate protection for both patients and personnel in adjacent areas.

The correct choice, which is a thickness of 1/16" (1.6 mm) lead equivalent, is recognized as the minimum standard in many regulatory and safety guidelines, including those set forth by organizations such as the National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements (NCRP). This thickness is deemed sufficient to reduce the intensity of the x-ray beam to safe levels for individuals who may be exposed to radiation during the diagnostic process.

The other options represent thicker barriers, which, while they may offer additional protection, do not meet the established minimum requirement for a primary barrier. For many applications, the specified 1/16" thickness balances safety with practicality, ensuring that the walls of x-ray rooms can adequately shield against harmful radiation without being excessively thick or cumbersome.