Profession radiation protection officer

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.

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Personality Type

• Social / Enterprising
• Investigative / Conventional

Knowledge

• Nuclear physics

  Field of physics in which protons and neutrons and their interactions inside atoms are analysed.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• Radiation protection

  The measures and procedures used to protect people and the environment from the harmful effects of ionising radiation.

• 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 legislation

  Be familiar with European, national and international legislation regarding the practice of nuclear activities.

Skills

• 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.

• 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.

• Use personal protection equipment

  Make use of protection equipment according to training, instruction and manuals. Inspect the equipment and use it consistently.

• 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.

• 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.

• Apply radiation protection procedures

  Inspect rules related to ionising radiation and ensure these abide by the Medical Exposure Directive (MED).

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• Calculate exposure to radiation

  Calculate radiation data about procedures, such as length and intensity of exposure.

• Monitor nuclear power plant systems

  Control nuclear plant systems, such as ventilation and water draining systems, to ensure proper functioning and identify irregularities.

• 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.

Optional knowledge and skills

Source: Sisyphus ODB