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Radiation protection practitioner: Job description and activities

Job description

Radiation protection practitioners give advice and guidance about the possible hazards of ionising radiation, such as X-rays, as well as radioactive materials and waste.

Practitioners use scientific techniques and equipment to measure and monitor radiation, assess risks and ensure the safety of the workplace, the general public and the environment.

Employers are legally required to comply with health and safety regulations on radiation and may appoint a radiation protection practitioner to advise them of any legal requirements. They also advise employers on radiation protection, design of facilities and projects and safety training.

Within the NHS and the nuclear industry, this role is usually known as health physicist but it can also be referred to as a radiation protection adviser.

Practitioners advising on non-ionising radiation (e.g. radar, mobile phone masts and lasers) will be subject to new legislation in 2010 (The Physical Agents Directive) resulting in this sector possibly becoming a separate specialist area in the future.

Typical work activities

Typical work activities include:

• ensuring that radiation safety regulations are observed;
• visiting companies to provide radiation protection consultancy and writing reports based on these visits;
• applying basic principles of health and safety to comply with relevant regulations;
• liaising with management and the workforce (including plant managers, designers, engineers, laboratory staff, academics, accountants and other health and safety professionals) on matters of radiation safety and legislation;
• drawing up safety policies and procedures;
• monitoring and maintaining records of radiological and environmental conditions;
• providing dosimetry service and measuring radiation, using both basic and complex scientific equipment;
• assessing radiation risks in the workplace and advising on the design of plant, equipment and waste disposal to ensure safety;
• assessing the impact of releasing radioactive material on the environment;
• advising on the safe transport of radioactive materials;
• leading and coordinating enquiries into accidents or incidents;
• preparing emergency plans; 
• liaising with inspectorate and other bodies;
• identifying training needs and lecturing and/or training other staff;
• conducting training for company employees as an external consultant;
• possibly researching improved operational practice.

AGCAS

Written by Mary McCarthy, University of Exeter

Last updated:

April 2009

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