Open course: 5-day training course in radiation protection
Since the early discoveries by Marie Curie, Bequerel, Einstein and many others, a deep insight into the risks and benefits of applying radioactivity in daily commercial and research practice has been built up. The scientific world of radiological protection is in constant motion, triggered by new research as well as by developments and events in the daily industrial and medical sector. In addition, national and international standards, regulations and guidelines aim at steering daily practice and procedures that guarantee the protection of workers, the public and the environment.
Objective of the training course
This training course treats the basic physics of radioactive phenomena and gives an overview of its most common applications. It shares the most recent knowledge on personal and environmental dosimetry and detection techniques, emergency management and biological effects of ionizing radiation. In addition, it focuses on the legal aspects regarding the use of radioactivity. Theoretical classes are complemented by a full day of practical exercises on the use of radiation devises and the correct application of personal protective equipment. Technical visits to some of SCK CEN's installations and laboratories enrich and illustrate the acquired knowledge with the practice of real-life situations. And because working with nuclear technology requires not only technical knowledge but also an insight in the societal issues, a module is foreseen in which we stimulate thinking and discuss about the philosophical and ethical dimensions of justifying and using nuclear technology.
Target audience
The training is intended for persons (Master students, PhD students, professionals) working with radioactive materials or managing nuclear activities in their professional environment and requiring insight in fundamental and practical aspects of radiological protection.
This training session is eligible for 30 hours of continuous professional development in radiation protection for the prolongation of the certification of Medical Doctors for medical supervision (Art. 75 Royal Decree 20 July 2001). Depending on the relevance for the personal function, this training session is also eligible as continuous professional development for experts in Health Physics (Art. 73 Royal Decree 20 July 2001). A certificate of attendance will be provided after the training course.
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Learning outcomes in terms of knowledge
- Describe the origin and properties of ionizing radiation
- Give examples of applications of ionizing radiation
- Name the interaction mechanisms between radiation and matter
- Classify the main risks related to exposure to ionizing radiation on healthcare and environmental level
- Define the fundamental principles of the radiation protection system and her applications, as laid down in national and international legislation
- Have insight in the organization of radiation protection in regular and emergency situations
- Understand the different dosimetric quantities
- Name different measurement methods and equipment for environmental and personal dosimetry
- Describe the characteristics of Radon and naturally occurring radioactive materials, including the use of NORM
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Learning outcomes in terms of skills
- Use different measurement devices to characterize sources an measure doses
- Apply proper dose reduction measures: reduce exposure time, increase distance, and select and calculate shielding
- Develop contextual and ethical reasoning as a relevant skill when considering radiation protection issues
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Learning outcomes in terms of competences
In terms of autonomy and authority
- Apply the main principles of operational radiation protection on the workfloor on a daily basis
- Be aware of the complexity of nuclear applications
Topics
This training course contains the following modules:
- Radioactivity and nuclear physics
- Interaction of radiation with matter
- Applications of ionizing radiation
- Management of incidents and accidents
- Nuclear emergency management
- Ethical aspects of radiological risks
- Radon and increased natural radioactivity
- NORM
- Effects of ionising radiation on the environment
- Dosimetry concepts
- Health effects of ionizing radiation
- Radiation and dose measurements
- Legislation: international framework and national implementation
- Radiation protection in medical exposures
- Management of radioactive waste
- Practical implementation of the ALARA philosophy
- Practical exercises
Language and duration
This course is organised in Dutch, French or English. This 5-day training course is provided from 09h00 to 17h00, including two coffee breaks and lunch.
Other training courses in radiation protection
For other training courses in radiation protection, visit the webpage of the radiation protection expert training course, the basic training course for Radiation Protection Officers (RPO) or the information and training in radiation protection for radiation workers.
View the calendar of customised training courses for the next 5-day training course in radiation protection.