Fixed contamination can become airborne as a result of which activity?

• A. Typing
• B. Walking
• C. Showering
• D. Welding and grinding

Answer: (D)

Aerosolizing fixed contamination happens when a surface-bound contaminant is disturbed enough to be released into the air. Welding and grinding involve high-energy mechanical action and heat that can detach tiny particles from a contaminated surface and form respirable aerosols or fumes, making inhalation possible. In that way, the surface contamination can become airborne and pose an inhalation risk. By contrast, typing or walking doesn't provide the same disruptive action to release particles, and showering tends to remove contamination from surfaces rather than create airborne contamination. Therefore, welding and grinding are the activities most likely to turn fixed contamination into airborne contamination.