Which of the following is a recommended strategy to minimize risks from static magnetic fields?

Testing metal objects with a handheld magnet is a recommended strategy to minimize risks from static magnetic fields in an MRI environment. This approach helps ensure that any metallic items are identified and assessed for their magnetic properties before entering the MRI room. Certain metals are ferromagnetic and can pose hazards during MRI scanning due to their ability to be attracted to the magnetic field, potentially leading to injury or damage to the equipment. By using a handheld magnet, healthcare providers can determine whether an object is safe to bring near the MRI system, thus enhancing patient and staff safety.

The other choices present methods that would not contribute positively to safety practices in the MRI setting. For instance, allowing all metal objects in the MRI room could lead to serious accidents or injuries, as many metals can interact negatively with the MRI's strong magnetic field. Placing all equipment in the scanner could also create safety hazards, as non-MRI-compatible devices can become projectiles. Similarly, having patients wear heavy metal accessories increases the risk during the scanning process and could cause harm to the patient or disrupt the quality of the images obtained.