Radiation Safety Officer (Nuclear Medicine)

RESPONSIBILITIES OF RSO

a) implement the safe procedure for operation of the device specified below, on first time receipt

• Ensure that source containment has all of its components intact and in an acceptable condition.
• Radiation dose rate profile in the vicinity of the source containment conforms to the limits specified by AERB.
• Shutter or source control mechanism, source assembly and retraction mechanism and any other safety features operate correctly and safely.
• Radiation warning signs and labels are intact, appropriately marked and legible.
• Device performs satisfactorily when used in accordance with manufacturers instructions.
• Location of the gauge has not been altered without the approval of the Competent Authority.

b) Ensure Implementation of Safe Work Procedure SAFE WORK PROCEDURE

• Stay close to the gauge except when necessary to observe the operation of these gauges and the number of persons operating the gauge is kept to a minimum.
• A radioactivity symbol and a warning sign reading “RADIATION KEEP AWAY” in English, Hindi, the local language and any other language deemed necessary is conspicuously displayed and properly located and maintained in a clean and legible in the vicinity of the NG.
• The source(s) are kept locked in the shielded position whenever the NG are not in use.
• Shutter ‘ON/OFF’ operation is checked periodically, particularly for continuous process monitoring gauges, which may require the shutter to be kept open for long duration, that is, days/months (since during operation, dust may be accumulated and cause the shutter to get jammed).
• A swipe test is carried out on those gauges containing radioactive source(s) at regular intervals not exceeding 12 months.
• The results of all radiation protection surveys and examinations of the equipment are recorded and retained.
• All tools necessary for the safe operation of the NG and the handling of emergency are in good working condition.
• When not in use, the NG should be securely stored in a designated storage location.

c) INSTRUCT CO-EMPLOYEES TO

• Acquaint themselves with radiation symbols and warning signs.
• Report to the RSO any difficulties with working procedures or defects in equipment which may have caused or are likely to cause a radiation hazard, including the actual or potential loss of a radioactive source and any accident or potentially hazardous situation that may come to their notice.
• Use any personal protective equipment provided to them and devices or equipment to assess their personal radiation dose, where applicable.
• Not remove or in any way interfere with the radiation source(s).
• Require that a female worker, on becoming aware that she is pregnant, notifies the employer, licensee and Radiological Safety Officer in order that her working conditions may be modified, if necessary.