05/03/1999 75260

RADIATION PROTECTION SPECIALIST

DEFINITION: This is limited professional and advanced technical work in the monitoring and control of radiation sources in the Department of Environmental Protection.

An employee in this class conducts routine inspections of radiation producing equipment and radioactive materials programs, collects environmental samples in support of the statewide radiation monitoring program and/or collects and exchanges dosimeters that measure radiation exposures in and around nuclear power electric generating stations and other licensed facilities. Inspection work at this level is characterized by the relatively limited variability and complexity of the equipment and programs, with emphasis on determining the presence or absence of basic safety features and sound operating procedures. Routine inspections of radiation producing equipment include but are not limited to intra-oral dental units, podiatry units, diagnostic veterinary units, electron microscopes, cabinet x-ray units and baggage x-ray units. Routine inspections of radioactive materials programs include but are not limited to gas chromatography units, lead-in-paint analyzers, liquid scintillation counters and check sources. Employees perform these inspections independently and may recommend ways of reducing patient and operator exposures. Employees at this level may also participate as members of an inspection team or accompany higher-level health physicists to learn specialized inspection techniques. Work is assigned in the form of specific facilities to inspect or according to established sampling and dosimeter exchange schedules. Work is reviewed by a professional supervisor for timeliness, completeness and adherence to established procedures and standards.

EXAMPLES OF WORK: Conducts routine inspections of radiation producing equipment and radioactive materials programs in medical and industrial settings for compliance with program requirements.

Determines or estimates operator exposure, patient skin entrance exposure and restricted or unrestricted area exposure.

Prepares reports to document the results of inspections and sampling activities.

Collects samples of surface water, air particulates, precipitation, milk, fish, sediment, soil and vegetation, and prepares and sends samples to environmental laboratories for radioisotopic analysis.

Travels to field sites to collect environmental samples, exchange thermoluminescent dosimeters and exchange air sampler filters and cartridges.

Performs dosimeter readout and analysis using standard operating procedures and prepares reports of data results.

Ensures the proper operational condition of thermoluminescent dosimeter system by performing periodic calibration and maintenance procedures and arranging for repairs.

Prepares training and documentation on the operation of the thermoluminescent dosimeter system.

Tests, calibrates and performs routine preventative maintenance on radiological survey and sampling equipment.

Operates a motor vehicle to travel to various work sites.

Performs similar work as required.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Knowledge of radiation protection principles and current practices related to the recognition, control and elimination of radiation hazards.

Knowledge of state and federal laws, regulations, policies and procedures governing radiation protection.

Knowledge of the methods and techniques used in obtaining, collecting and transporting samples in various media to evaluate radiation exposures.

Knowledge of radioactive waste disposal techniques and procedures.

Ability to operate, calibrate and perform routine preventative maintenance on radiation detection equipment and environmental sampling equipment.

Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.

Ability to develop and deliver effective presentations and training sessions for Departmental staff, facility operators and the public.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers, facility operators and the public.

Ability to operate a motor vehicle.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING: One year as an Environmental Trainee;

                                                                                                                                                                     or

Any equivalent combination of experience and training.

NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENT: Possession of a valid Pennsylvania driver's license.