How to Be Radiological Hygienist - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Mar 30, 2023 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The use of ionizing radiation in medical imaging, research and industrial applications has led to an increased need for Radiological Hygienists. These professionals are responsible for assessing the health and safety risks associated with radiation sources and radiation-generating equipment and recommending measures to reduce the potential for exposure to radiation. They also monitor exposures, inspect radiation facilities and develop emergency plans in the event of a radiological emergency. As a result, Radiological Hygienists play a vital role in protecting workers and the public from overexposure to radiation, which can have serious health effects such as cancer, genetic damage, and tissue injury.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a high school diploma or GED. Radiological hygienists must have a high school diploma or GED to be eligible for entry-level positions in the field.
Obtain an associate degree in radiologic technology. There are many accredited programs that offer an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in radiologic technology. This program will prepare you for entry-level positions in radiological hygiene.
Complete additional certifications and training. Depending on the state and type of job, you may need to complete additional certifications and training in order to become a radiological hygienist.
Obtain licensure or certification. In some states, you may need to obtain a license or certification to practice as a radiological hygienist. This may require taking and passing an exam administered by the state.
Obtain experience. Employers may prefer to hire radiological hygienists with at least one year of experience in the field. You may be able to gain this experience through internships or volunteer opportunities.

Staying ahead and competent as a Radiological Hygienist requires continual education and training in order to remain both knowledgeable and current with the newest advancements in the field. it is important to keep up-to-date with the latest regulations and guidelines that must be adhered to in the industry. Furthermore, it is important to stay informed of any changes or developments in the technology used to carry out radiological examinations or treatments.

Finally, it is necessary to participate in professional organizations and conferences to stay abreast of new developments in the field, and to network with other professionals in the industry. All of these measures help to ensure that Radiological Hygienists remain competent and well-informed in their field.

You may want to check Occupational Hygienist, Food Hygienist, and Clinical Hygienist for alternative.

Job Description

Monitor and review radiation safety procedures to ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
Develop, implement and monitor programs to minimize radiation exposure to personnel and the public.
Conduct surveys of radiation levels in areas of potential exposure and document results.
Investigate complaints of excessive radiation exposure and take corrective action as necessary.
Monitor personnel for radiation exposure and administer dosimetry records.
Provide technical advice and assistance regarding radiation safety issues.
Prepare reports on radiation safety activities and present findings to management.
Develop and maintain radiation safety policies and procedures.
Provide training and education on radiation safety topics.
Collaborate with other departments to ensure compliance with all applicable regulations.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of radiation safety protocols and standards
Knowledge of radiation protection and control methods
Ability to operate and maintain radiographic equipment
Knowledge of health physics principles and practices
Ability to develop and implement radiation safety plans
Ability to interpret and analyze data
Ability to communicate effectively with colleagues and clients
Knowledge of medical terminology
Ability to organize and prioritize tasks
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Proficiency with computers and other office equipment
Knowledge of radiation dosimetry
Ability to administer radioactive materials safely
Knowledge of regulatory requirements related to radiation safety

Being a Radiological Hygienist requires a variety of skills to be successful. The most important skill a Radiological Hygienist must have is an understanding of radiation safety, as they are responsible for ensuring that radiation is used safely and within acceptable levels. This knowledge is gained through training, which involves learning the principles of physics and mathematics related to radiation, as well as the potential health risks associated with its use.

In addition, good communication skills are critical for a Radiological Hygienist, as they must be able to accurately explain the risks of radiation exposure to patients. Lastly, organizational and problem-solving skills are important for a Radiological Hygienist, as they must ensure that all safety protocols are being followed in order to protect both staff and patients from the potential risks of radiation. By having these skills, a Radiological Hygienist can help create a safe environment in which radiation can be used safely and effectively.

Chemical Hygienist, School Hygienist, and Laser Hygienist are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in radiological hygiene?
How would you analyze radiation exposure risk levels?
How would you develop protocols for monitoring radiation levels?
What methods do you use to ensure compliance with radiation safety regulations?
What advice would you give to someone looking to enter radiological hygiene?
How would you evaluate the effectiveness of radiation safety measures?
How do you keep up with changes in the field of radiological hygiene?
What strategies would you use to quickly identify potential sources of radiation exposure?
How familiar are you with current radiation safety regulations?
What steps do you take to ensure safe handling of radioactive materials?

Common Tools in Industry

Radiation Detectors. Used to measure and detect radiation levels. (eg: Geiger Counter)
Dosimeters. Monitors and measures radiation exposure. (eg: TLD Dosimeter)
Film Badge. Used to monitor and measure radiation exposure. (eg: OSL Film Badge)
Lead Apron. Protective gear used to shield from radiation exposure. (eg: X-Ray Lead Apron)
Air Sampler. Used to sample air for radiation particles. (eg: High Volume Air Sampler)
Digital Dosimetry System. Used to record, store and analyze dose data. (eg: DoseTrack Digital Dosimetry System)
Radiation Monitoring Software. Used to manage radiation monitoring data. (eg: RadTrack Radiation Monitoring Software)
Radiation Survey Meter. Used to detect and measure X-ray and gamma radiation. (eg: Inspector Pro-2 Radiation Survey Meter)
Radioactive Source Locator. Used to locate radioactive sources. (eg: SourceFinder Radioactive Source Locator)
Radiation Shielding. Protective materials used to reduce radiation exposure. (eg: Lead Shielding)

Professional Organizations to Know

American Board of Health Physics
American College of Radiology
American Nuclear Society
International Commission on Radiological Protection
National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements
Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging
The Health Physics Society
American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists
American Society of Safety Professionals
American Industrial Hygiene Association

We also have Environmental Hygienist, Industrial Hygienist, and Hospital Hygienist jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Radiation protection. The practice of protecting people and the environment from the harmful effects of radiation.
Dosimetry. The measurement of the amount of radiation that a person is exposed to in a given period of time.
Radiobiology. The study of the effects of radiation on living organisms.
Radiochemistry. The study of the chemical effects of radiation on matter.
Radioecology. The study of the effects of radiation on the environment.
Radiopharmaceuticals. Substances used in medical imaging tests to help visualize organs or other structures inside the body.
Radiographers. Technicians who perform radiographic examinations, such as X-rays or computed tomography (CT) scans.
Nuclear Medicine Technologists. Technicians who specialize in administering radiopharmaceuticals for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.
Radiotherapy. The use of radiation to treat cancer and other diseases.
Radionuclides. Unstable atoms that emit radiation as they decay.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is a Radiological Hygienist? A1: A Radiological Hygienist is a healthcare professional who specializes in the safe use and disposal of radiation-producing equipment and materials. Q2: What qualifications are needed to become a Radiological Hygienist? A2: To become a Radiological Hygienist, individuals must have a minimum of a bachelor's degree in health physics, radiation protection, radiological health, or a closely related field. Q3: What type of work does a Radiological Hygienist perform? A3: A Radiological Hygienists work includes monitoring radiation sources, ensuring radiation safety protocols are followed, providing radiation safety education, and developing policies and procedures to ensure safe use of radiation. Q4: What organizations certify Radiological Hygienists? A4: The American Board of Health Physics (ABHP) and the American Board of Radiology (ABR) both offer certification for Radiological Hygienists. Q5: What is the salary range for a Radiological Hygienist? A5: The median annual salary for a Radiological Hygienist is $67,000, with salaries ranging from $50,000 to $88,000.