Question

Regarding the ALARA Program in a hospital setting, what are three responsibilities for the program that are entrusted to the Radiation Safety Officer by the Administration?

Answer 1

The Radiation Safety Officer in a hospital is responsible for implementing radiation protection measures, managing programs like the Naturally-Occurring Radioactive Materials Program, and overseeing radiation source reduction and management efforts to minimize exposure and comply with safety standards.

Step-by-step explanation:

Within a hospital, the ALARA program is essential for minimizing radiation exposure to patients, staff, and the environment. The Radiation Safety Officer (RSO) has several key responsibilities under this program mandated by the hospital administration. Three of these responsibilities include:

• Ensuring that radiation protection measures such as time, distance, and shielding are implemented and adhered to. This involves keeping exposure times to the minimum possible, maintaining maximum distance from radiation sources, and using sufficient shielding materials to protect individuals.
• Managing and overseeing programs such as the Naturally-Occurring Radioactive Materials Program and the Air and Water Programs to ensure safe and compliant handling of radioactive materials.
• Conducting and supervising radiation source reduction and management activities to reduce the amount of radioactive materials used and to manage their safe disposal.

The RSO also ensures that safety standards are in compliance with OSHA, which includes providing safety training, accurate record-keeping, and appropriate use of personal protective equipment.