After finishing with an X-ray examination, what safety action should be taken?

• A. Disconnect from mains
• B. Turn to standby
• C. Power off with switch
• D. Cover with lead

Answer: (A)

The main idea is to ensure the X-ray unit is completely de-energized after a procedure. Disconnecting from mains removes all electrical power, preventing any chance of the machine being accidentally restarted or still holding charge in its circuits. This is the safest way to eliminate exposure risk and keep staff safe as you finish up and move away from the area.

Turning to standby or powering off with a switch may leave some systems or capacitors with residual energy, which could pose a small risk if someone reactivates the unit. Covering with lead is about protecting against radiation during exposure, not a post-procedure safety step for the equipment itself. Always follow local safety procedures, but fully disconnecting from mains is the most thorough way to secure the equipment after use.