Radiation Awareness and Unsealed Radioactive Sources Training Course

This three and a half day Fixed Gauges course otherwise known as the Radiation Safety Officer (RSO) course is designed to equip the candidate to effectively manage all aspects as required for the safe use fixed radiation sources.Upon successful completion of the course exam, learners will be able to:Apply for Western Australian License for Fixed Gauges from the WA Radiological Council which is a pre-requisite for the appointment of site Radiation Safety Officer (RSO)Supervise any unlicensed technical personnel, employee or contractor working in the vicinity of a Fixed Radiation GaugeSupervise any unlicensed technical personnel or workers involved in installation, removal of a Fixed Radiation GaugeComply with the Statutory Requirements with regards to use, storage and transportation Fixed Gauges in Western AustraliaCarry out Fixed Gauges inspection, maintenance, collection of wipe test samples and test radiation level around or in the vicinity of Fixed GaugesAble to work confidently and competently in the vicinity of a Fixed Radiation GaugeAble to calibrate or isolate Fixed GaugesPrepare Work Instructions/Radiation Management Plan and Emergency ProcedureMaintain site radiation store in compliance with the Regulatory Guidelines

The radioactive sources of natural origin (NORM) may present inside scrap metals. Most cases natural radioisotopes such as uranium, thorium or radium are inadvertently deposited as scales inside various items such as metal pipe-works, clamps, motor, heat exchangers and other equipment that may cause health hazards if not handled with care. Apart from radiation exposure to workers and the members of the public, contaminated scrap metals may cause environmental and facility contamination with substantial clean-up cost.Naturally Occurring Radioactive Material (NORM) is the term used to describe materials that contain radioisotopes existing in the natural environment. These materials are found in rocks, soils, mineral sands and in ground water. Radioactivity is exhibited when traces of uranium, radium and thorium or other natural radioisotopes are present inside scrap metals.The basic radiation safety guidelines involving safe handling of NORM are set up by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the statutory authority such as ARPANSA. The guidelines specify safety and exempt limits for all radioisotopes below which material may be considered radiologically non-hazardous.This one-day Scrap Metal awareness course is intended to provide basic information on radiation protection and safety so that the operators can work competently and confidently and understand why certain procedures are required to be followed.

The 7 hour Gauge Isolation/Awareness Course is intended to provide a sufficient level of knowledge to enable the operator to comfortably work around fixed radiation gauges and should understand why certain procedures are required to be carried out.