Radiation Safety Officer General Refresher - QLD

This course provides basic knowledge and is not intended to replace training required for a radiation use licence.

It starts with the basics of radiation: what it is, its sources and types, how it affects the body, and how we measure radiation exposure and personal doses.

Then, we'll focus on how we can keep radiation doses within limits and as low as reasonably achievable. Understanding radiation sources better will help you comply with their safe use rules and requirements in practice. We'll cover their origin / generation, behaviour and how they interact with matter. This fundamental knowledge is extended through the application of radiation protection strategies of time, distance, and shielding to allow radiation doses to be kept within the dose limits in routine and emergency situations.

Measuring radiation exposure: You'll learn about workplace / area and personal monitoring devices and their correct use, including the conduct of functional and device performance checks.

The role of the RSO: The role and responsibilities of the RSO are covered in detail, with the provided training to help you monitor the safe application of the radiation sources used by your organisation and maintain its record keeping requirements.

Describe the fundamentals of radiation and radiation exposure:

Define radiation and its properties.

Identify the different types of radiation and their interaction with matter.

Describe the units of radiation measurement.

Describe the biological effects of ionising radiation on the human body.

Define dose and dose limits for occupational exposure.

Apply radiation safety principles:

Explain the ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) principle in radiation protection.

Describe the application of justification, optimisation and limitation in radiation work.

Describe the three strategies of radiation protection (time, distance, shielding).

Implement safe work practices for use of radiation sources and radiation generating devices:

Identify the regulatory requirements impacting on the use of radiation sources in the workplace.

Explain the roles and responsibilities of personnel involved in radiation work.

Describe the proper use of radiation monitoring devices, both personal and area (including calibration and function checks).

Identify the safe work practices and rules that apply when using radiation sources.

Recognise and respond to emergencies:

Identify potential emergencies when using radiation sources.

Explain the steps to take in the remediation of a radiation emergency.

Maintain radiation safety records:

Describe the responsibilities and requirements for maintaining records of personal monitoring, radiation survey meters and their calibration, radiation source / radiation generating equipment details and compliance testing.

Discuss the requirements for reporting, investigating and documenting radiation incidents.

Role & responsibilities of Radiation Safety Officer:

Describe the role of the Radiation Safety Officer within the organisation and the specific areas of responsibility.

Identify activities that support the Responsible Person and radiation workers in helping to keep doses ALARA and within dose limits.

This course satisfies the training requirements for a Radiation Safety Officer. It does not mean that the participant will be able to apply for a radiation use licence (if not already held).