The next course will run from 16 September 2024 to 26 May 2025.
This course has been designed to allow students to study by distance learning through the use of text-based course content with online tutor support via Myplace, the University's virtual learning environment.
The course will involve a minimum of 120 hours of study (plus a minimum of 40 hours for preparation of assessed work) depending on prior knowledge and experience. Success on this course is dependent on a high degree of time management and application.
The syllabus of the course is as follows:
- Basis of Radiation Protection: basis of radiation protection standards; ICRP principles – justification, optimisation, dose limitations
- Basic atomic physics and radiation biology: basic atomic and nuclear physics; basic biology; interaction of radiation with matter; biological effects of radiation; quantities and units
- Detection and measurement of radiation: detection and measurement methods; monitoring – area, personal dosimetry (external, real time and external), biological
- Legislation: legal and regulatory basis: internal recommendations/conventions; European Union legislation; IRR17; other relevant health and safety legislation
- Practices, interventions and exposure situations: sealed sources and associated practices; unsealed sources and practices; X-ray sources and practices; other sources and practices; interventions (including natural radiation, especially radon)
- Control of exposure: operational radiation protection; hazard and risk assessment; minimisation of risk; control of releases; critical dose concept/dose calculation for critical group; ergonomics; operating rules and contingency planning; emergency procedures; remedial action/decontamination; analysis of past incidents including experience feedback
- Organisation of radiation protection: role of qualified experts; safety culture; communication skills; record keeping; permits to work and other authorisations; designation of areas and classification of workers; quality control/auditing; dealing with contractors
- Management of Radioactive materials and waste disposal: registration and authorisation of practices (and exemptions); waste management – principles of management, principles of disposal; environmental impact assessments; transport (including exemptions).
