How long must decontamination continue during cleanup of a radioactive spill?

In the context of decontaminating a radioactive spill, the process must ensure that all residual contamination is thoroughly addressed to protect both personnel and the environment. The correct choice emphasizes that decontamination should continue until wipe checks demonstrate that no further contamination can be effectively removed.

Wipe tests are essential tools in radiation safety, allowing for the assessment of surface contamination. The goal is to achieve a state where subsequent measurements indicate that all removable radioactive material has been successfully cleaned up. This aligns with best practices in radiation safety, which prioritize the total removal of any detectable contamination to minimize health risks.

Options that focus solely on exposure rates or the size of a contaminated area may not fully account for the presence of contamination that could still pose a risk. Ensuring that wipe checks show no contamination reinforces the commitment to safety and thoroughness required in handling radioactive materials, making it the most appropriate approach for decontamination efforts.