The piece of equipment that should be used to handle radioactive sources includes protective tools such as laboratory coats, gloves, safety goggles, respiratory protection, lead aprons or lead vests for gamma radiation protection, dosimeters to measure radiation exposure, and other shielding materials like lead or Plexiglas. Additionally, for the safe handling of sealed radioactive sources, heavy shielding containers made of lead are commonly used to reduce radiation exposure. Specifically:

• Gloves and lab coats are essential to prevent contamination.
• Safety goggles and respiratory protection may be required when handling open radioactive sources.
• Lead shielding, such as aprons or shields, protects against gamma radiation.
• Dosimeters are used to monitor radiation dose uptake.
• Plexiglas shields can effectively shield beta radiation.
• Sealed radioactive sources are often stored in heavy, lead-shielded containers for safety.

These equipment items help minimize exposure and ensure safe handling in different scenarios involving radioactive materials.