Define "contamination" in the context of radiological safety.

"Contamination" in the context of radiological safety refers specifically to the unintentional presence of radioactive material on surfaces, objects, or within the body. This definition emphasizes that contamination can occur in various environments, such as laboratories, medical facilities, or nuclear power plants, and is a critical concern for safety protocols.

Understanding contamination is essential for radiological workers, as it can pose health risks if radioactive substances come into contact with personnel, equipment, or the environment. It requires careful monitoring and decontamination procedures to prevent the spread of radioactive materials and ensure a safe working environment. The focus on "not intended" is crucial, as it differentiates contamination from situations where radioactive materials are being safely and intentionally handled or stored according to regulatory guidelines.

In contrast, the other options describe different aspects of radiological safety but do not accurately capture the definition of contamination. Exposure to high levels of radiation pertains to the amount of radiation a person may absorb, regulated disposal refers to how radioactive waste is managed, and leakage implicates a failure in containment rather than the presence of materials where they should not be.