S1.1.1—Safety and ethics

Move from hazard to control

Identify the specific hazard, who or what could be harmed, and how exposure could occur. Then choose a control that removes the hazard or reduces probability or severity—for example shielding and distance for ionizing radiation, insulation for hot equipment, or containment for pollutants.

Protect self, others and the environment

Check the investigator, nearby people, organisms, equipment and surroundings. After applying controls, state any residual risk and whether the investigation should proceed, be redesigned or not be performed.

Frame an ethical choice

Compare benefits and harms for the affected people. For a medical isotope, balance possible treatment benefit against side effects and the consequence of not treating; do not present a medical choice as risk-free.

Discuss rather than list

A discussion needs more than one perspective or consequence and a reasoned comparison. For environmental questions, consider extraction, use, disposal and long-term effects.

Common trap

Do not write a vague claim such as “it is dangerous.” Name the mechanism and the consequence, then connect it to the decision.