Being a radiation safety officer (RSO) is not the world’s easiest job. If you choose to undertake this position, you will be placed under the spotlight. Cutting corners and avoiding regulations is a big no-no. Your actions will always be monitored. Before you decide to fill this role, the American Portable Nuclear Gauge Association (APNGA) recommends you:
Learn what an RSO is.
As an RSO, you will be responsible for radiological safety pertaining to all facets of radioactive materials. You are obligated to ensure all licensed activities are executed in proper compliance.
Learn what it means to be an RSO.
Becoming an RSO illustrates you possess the training, expertise, tools, time, stamina and professional standing within your organization or company. It’s an honor that should not be taken lightly. All responsibility lies at your feet, although you can delegate certain tasks.
Learn about the time it takes.
If the RSO role in your company is an ancillary assignment, time might be an issue. Still, it can bode well for small programs if the person has frequent contact with other users.
There are two big questions you will need to ask yourself before accepting the assignment:
Do you have clout?
Authority is packaged with the role. Do people listen to you? Is your salary or performance review controlled by someone you may have to tell no? Then it could be a problem.
Do you want to do it?
An RSO is akin to a cop. You won’t always be popular. You may to say no. You’re a regulator, so you’ll have to be able to regulate effectively.
Want to know more? Visit www.APNGA.com.
