Radiation Safety for RSO In Industrial Radiography (x-ray only) – Vic

This course 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. As Industrial Radiographers can use intense radiation sources, understanding these sources better will help you understand their safe use requirements. 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 checks before starting any radiographic inspection work.

Covering the Industrial Radiography Code* as applied to radiographic testing conducted in fully enclosed, partially enclosed and at open sites. We'll break down the key requirements in a clear and practical way.

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.

*abbreviated references to these Codes. Note that the Transport and Security Codes are not requirements when using x-ray only but are included for overview purposes.

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.
• Identify the various routes of radiation exposure.
• 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).
• Apply the concept half-value layer to industrial radiography scenarios

Implement safe work practices, considering the Industrial Radiography, Transport and Security Codes:

• Identify the regulatory requirements impacting on industrial radiography.
• Explain the roles and responsibilities of personnel involved in radiography operations.
• Describe the proper use of radiation monitoring devices, both personal and area (including calibration and function checks).
• Apply the requirements of the Industrial Radiography Code to fully enclosed, partially enclosed and open site locations where radiation sources are used.

Recognise and respond to emergencies:

• Identify potential emergencies involving 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, x-ray 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 is accepted by Radiation Health in Victoria as satisfying the training requirements for a Radiation Safety Officer for industrial radiography applications of x-ray only. It does not mean that the participant will be able to apply for a radiation use licence (if not already held). Additional training is required if gamma sources are also used.

Radiation Health Victoria recognise the validity of Radiation Training’s continuous assessment methodology without requiring you to undergo further face-to-face examination.