What is the definition of contamination in regard to exposure?

The definition of contamination in the context of exposure pertains to the state of an individual being exposed to hazardous substances or potentially harmful materials. In this sense, contamination indicates that an external agent—such as a chemical, biological agent, or radiological material—has come into contact with an individual, thereby posing a risk to their health or well-being.

When someone is deemed contaminated, it implies that their body or clothing has been exposed to a contaminant, which may require specific decontamination procedures to mitigate any health risks. This definition highlights the focus on the exposure aspect of contamination, distinguishing it from other concepts related to health solely, such as infection or removal of hazards.

The other options address different aspects or implications of exposure or contamination but do not capture the most accurate definition of contamination itself. For instance, the alteration of a person’s biological makeup refers more to the effects of a contaminant rather than the state of being contaminated. Similarly, removing hazardous materials pertains to decontamination processes rather than defining contamination, while physical contact in terms of infection describes a mode of transmission but is not synonymous with contamination itself.