Portable XRF only Radiation Safety Officer (TAS)

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. Although portable XRF devices emit low energy x-rays, when used incorrectly annual doses to the skin can be exceeded in less than a minute. Understanding these 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 pXRF devices:

Identify the regulatory requirements impacting on pXRF use.

Explain the roles and responsibilities of personnel involved in analysis activities.

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 in conducting analysis work in both field and fixed settings.

Recognise and respond to emergencies:

Identify potential emergencies involving pXRF devices.

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, pXRF 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 for organisation using portable XRF devices 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 for portable mineral analysis.