Basic Radiation Safety

Two Day (16 hour) Course

COURSE DESCRIPTION

This 16 hour course is intended to provide the participant with a thorough understanding of basic radiation safety and an awareness of the contents of the Ionising Radiations Regulations. This course meets the requirements for the PCN Basic Radiation Safety Examination and is an ideal programme for all radiography trainees, assistants, health and safety personnel, quality control inspectors, or any personnel involved in projects where radiographic inspection is being conducted.

A comprehensive examination will be administered as part of the course.

COURSE CONTENT

• Basic concepts.

• Equipment.

• Radiation units and dose limitations : quantities and units, brief summary of legislation, dose limitation.

• Biological effects.

• Principle of protection from external radiation.

• Shielding calculations.

• Personal dosimetry.

• Radiation monitoring.

• Specific requirements of regulations.

• Accidents and hazards in perspective.

• Emergency procedures.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

1. At the conclusion of this course the student should be able to Have an understanding of the basic concepts of ionising radiations;

2. Be familiar with the terminology used in radiation protection;

3. Be familiar with the main requirements of the following:

   • Ionising Radiations Regulations 1999;

   • The Approved Code of Practice;

   • Associated Guidance Notes;

   • The Ionising Radiations (Outside Workers) Regulations 1993;

4. Have an understanding of the potential hazards (health effects) associated with the use of ionising radiation;

5. Have an understanding of the principles of practical protection to minimise exposure to ionising radiation;

6. Have an understanding of the good working practices required to keep radiation doses as low as reasonably practicable;

7. Be able to calculate source outputs and dose rates, and have an understanding of the inverse square law; and

8. Be aware of the appropriate action to take in emergency situations.