During radiography, what distance should staff stand to minimise exposure to scattered radiation?

• A. 1 metre
• B. 2 metres
• C. 3 metres
• D. 5 metres

Answer: (B)

Distance from the patient is the key factor in reducing exposure to scattered radiation. The intensity of scatter falls off quickly as you move away, roughly following the inverse square principle, so stepping back noticeably lowers the dose to staff. In typical radiography practice, standing about two metres away from the patient (and behind protective shielding when possible) is the standard minimum distance that effectively minimizes exposure while keeping procedures practical.

Being only about one metre away would expose you to more scatter, while greater distances like three or five metres would reduce exposure even further but are not the conventional minimum guidance used in most settings. The two‑metre guideline strikes the right balance between safety and workflow, especially when combined with shielding and proper technique.