Who are Radiation Protection Officers?
Radiation protection officers are responsible for the protection from harmful effects caused by exposure to ionising radiation. They ensure compliance with legislation and regulations by enforcing safety measures. Furthermore they develop radiation protection plans in particular for nuclear plants and facilities.
Knowledge of a Radiation Protection Officer
- Environmental legislation
The environmental policies and legislation applicable in a certain domain.
- Radiation physics in healthcare
The radiation physics related to conventional radiology, CT, MRI, ultrasound, diagnostic nuclear medicine and their principles such as areas of application, indications, contraindications, limitations and radiation hazards.
- Nuclear energy
The generation of electrical energy through the use of nuclear reactors, by converting the energy released from nuclei of atoms in reactors which generate heat. This heat subsequently generates steam which can power a steam turbine to generate electricity.
- Nuclear legislation
Be familiar with European, national and international legislation regarding the practice of nuclear activities.
- Nuclear physics
Field of physics in which protons and neutrons and their interactions inside atoms are analysed.
- Pollution prevention
The processes used to prevent pollution: precautions to pollution of the environment, procedures to counter pollution and associated equipment, and possible measures to protect the environment.
- Radiation protection
The measures and procedures used to protect people and the environment from the harmful effects of ionizing radiation.
- Radioactive contamination
The different causes of the presence of radioactive substances in liquids, solids, or gases or on surfaces, and the manner in which to identify the types of contaminants, their risks, and the contaminants’ concentration.
Skills of a Radiation Protection Officer
- Use personal protection equipment
Make use of protection equipment according to training, instruction and manuals. Inspect the equipment and use it consistently.
- Follow nuclear plant safety precautions
Comply with nuclear power plant safety procedures, policies and legislation to ensure a safe working environment for all employees, and to ensure the safety of the public.
- Monitor nuclear power plant systems
Control nuclear plant systems, such as ventilation and water draining systems, to ensure proper functioning and identify irregularities.
- Apply radiation protection procedures
Ensure that Radiation Protection Rules are applied at all times, in accordance to the specifications provided in the Medical Exposure Directive (MED) related to the dangers of ionising radiation in relation to medical exposure.
- Instruct employees on radiation protection
Explain the various legal and operational measures established in the company against radiation, such as reducing exposure time and wearing protective gear, to the employees and communicate the emergency procedures.
- Ensure compliance with environmental legislation
Monitor activities and perform tasks ensuring compliance with standards involving environmental protection and sustainability, and amend activities in the case of changes in environmental legislation. Ensure that the processes are compliant with environment regulations and best practices.
- Monitor radiation levels
Use measuring and testing equipment and techniques to identify the levels of radiation or radioactive substances in order to control exposure and minimise health, safety, and environmental risks.
- Develop radiation protection strategies
Develop strategies for facilities and organisations which are at risk for exposure to radiation or radioactive substances, such as hospitals and nuclear facilities, for the protection of people within the premises in case of risk, as well as the minimisation of radiation exposure during working operations.
- Perform risk analysis
Identify and assess factors that may jeopardise the success of a project or threaten the organisation’s functioning. Implement procedures to avoid or minimise their impact.
- Design strategies for nuclear emergencies
Develop and oversee the implementation of strategies which aim to prevent equipment malfunctions, errors, and contamination risks in nuclear facilities, and which outline response actions in the event of a nuclear emergency.
- Advise on pollution prevention
Advise individuals and organisations on the development and implementation of actions which aid in the prevention of pollution and its related risks.
- Calculate exposure to radiation
Calculate radiation data about procedures, such as length and intensity of exposure.
- Respond to nuclear emergencies
Set in motion the strategies for reacting in the event of equipment malfunctions, errors, or other events which may lead to contamination and other nuclear emergencies, ensuring that the facility is secured, all necessary areas are evacuated, and further damages and risks are contained.
- Ensure compliance with radiation protection regulations
Make sure the company and the employees implement the legal and operational measures established to guarantee protection against radiation.