Trainees are taught the hazards associated with radioactive materials and become familiar with all the regulations. The course includes basic radiation safety, dose calculations, radiation protection program elements, regulatory inspections, licensing, emergency actions, radioactive material accountability, leak testing, maintenance, transportation, waste management, and the duties & responsibilities of an RSO.
The course meets all criteria of NUREG 1556 Vol 1, Appendix C and NUREG 1556 Vol 4, Appendix D. It also reviews all the pertinent regulations covered under 10 CFR Parts 2, 19, 20, 21, 30, 31, 32, 37, 71, 110, 150, 170, and 171.
Additionally, students will have labs involving hands-on handling of radioactive sources, radiation meters, and nuclear gauges. Experiments will include estimating dose rates using the inverse square law then proving their estimates using real sources and measurement instrumentation. The intent of the practical experience is to familiarize students not only with the regulations, but with radiation fields and safety measures that they experience first hand.