Which of the following is considered an engineering control to minimize radiation exposure?

The installation of shielding materials is identified as an effective engineering control to minimize radiation exposure. Engineering controls are physical modifications or interventions that are designed to minimize or eliminate hazards in the workplace. Shielding materials act as barriers to radiation and are specifically designed to absorb or scatter radiation, thereby reducing the amount of radiation that can escape from a radiation source or emanate from a work area to unintended locations.

Common materials used for shielding include lead, concrete, and specialized glass, depending on the type of radiation being managed (e.g., gamma rays, X-rays, or neutron radiation). By properly installing shielding materials, the radiation dose received by workers and the public can be significantly reduced, contributing to an overall safer working environment.

In contrast, the other options serve different functions. Warning signs are important for communication of hazards but do not physically reduce radiation exposure. Regular training for staff is crucial for ensuring that employees are knowledgeable about safety protocols and procedures; however, it is not a physical measure that modifies the radiation environment. Increased ventilation can help with air quality and reduce the concentration of airborne radioactive materials but does not address the exposure from direct radiation. Therefore, the most effective method listed that serves as an engineering control is the installation of shielding materials.