What can be said about the safety of handling old radiography sources?

The choice that states old radiography sources should always be disposed of as hazardous waste is accurate because these materials often contain radioactive isotopes that can be harmful to human health and the environment. Handling radiography sources carries inherent risks due to the potential for radiation exposure, even if the sources appear to be no longer actively emitting radiation. Therefore, proper disposal protocols designed to minimize these risks are essential.

Disposal as hazardous waste ensures that these materials are managed safely and responsibly, often involving specialized facilities equipped to handle radioactive materials. This approach prevents the possibility of radioactive contamination and protects individuals and the environment from exposure.

The other options fail to account for the potential dangers associated with old radiography sources. For example, stating that they pose no risk if used properly does not consider that even proper handling may not eliminate all risk. Additionally, suggesting they can be recycled overlooks the specific hazards presented by radioactive materials, while stating they are safe if completely depleted ignores the possibility that residues can still be hazardous. Thus, the proper and safest approach is to treat old radiography sources as hazardous waste.