If you discover radioactive material in an improper location, what should your first action be?

The first action to take upon discovering radioactive material in an improper location is to warn other personnel not to approach the area. This response is critical for ensuring safety, as radioactive materials can pose serious health risks due to their potential for radiation exposure. By alerting others, you help to establish a safety perimeter around the hazardous area, minimizing the risk of exposure to individuals who may not be aware of the danger.

Taking this step is about prioritizing the safety of everyone on site. It allows for the situation to be assessed and the appropriate protocols to be followed without putting anyone's health at risk. This response aligns with the principles of emergency management, where immediate action to protect people takes precedence over other considerations such as containment or disposal.

In this context, other options, such as picking up the material or waiting until the supervisor arrives, could lead to unnecessary exposure to radiation or further complications in handling the situation. It is essential to activate the correct response protocols established for dealing with hazardous materials, which typically involve warning others and notifying trained personnel for a safe resolution.