In sample mounting procedures, which action is a typical STEP?

• A. Clear Area
• B. Mark Sample
• C. Evacuate
• D. Decontaminate

Answer: (A)

In mounting procedures, establishing a safe, controlled work area is essential. Clearing the area first removes distractions, prevents accidents, and reduces the chance of contaminating the sample or exposing personnel to hazards. This readiness step ensures you can handle the sample with precision and maintain the integrity of both the specimen and the environment.

Marking the sample is about identification and traceability, which comes after you’ve prepared the workspace and is not the initial safety/setup action.

Evacuating would only be necessary if there was an immediate threat or danger requiring removal of people, which is not a routine step in mounting a standard sample.

Decontaminating is important when there is contamination or exposure risk, but as a routine first step in mounting, it’s not typically the baseline action you perform before even approaching the sample.