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

Apr 25, 2022 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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Radiological Inspectors are responsible for ensuring the safety of nuclear facilities by monitoring the levels of radiation in the environment. Their duties include checking radiation levels from nuclear reactors, analysing data and conducting inspections of radioactive materials. If any irregularities are found, they inform the appropriate authorities and recommend corrective action.

The effects of their work are far-reaching; by maintaining safe radiation levels, they protect both the environment and human health. Furthermore, their work helps to prevent the spread of radioactive materials, reducing the risk of contamination and potential disaster.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a Bachelor's Degree. Prospective radiological inspectors must first earn a Bachelor's degree in a related field, such as radiation protection or health physics.
Complete an Internship. Many employers prefer to hire radiological inspectors who have prior experience working in the field. To gain this experience, candidates should complete a radiation safety internship.
Obtain Certification. Most states require radiological inspectors to be certified by the American Board of Health Physics or the National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements. To become certified, individuals must pass a written exam.
Obtain a State License. Some states may also require radiological inspectors to obtain a state license. Licensing requirements vary from state to state, so it is important for prospective inspectors to check their state's requirements.
Take Continuing Education Classes. To maintain certification and licensure, radiological inspectors must take continuing education classes. These courses may cover topics such as radiation safety and radiation monitoring techniques.

Inspectors in the radiological field are vital to public safety and must be competent and ideal to perform their duties. The primary responsibility of a radiological inspector is to ensure that all facilities, equipment, personnel and materials are in compliance with federal and state regulations. To be ideal and competent, a radiological inspector must have an in-depth knowledge of radiation safety, the ability to identify potential hazards, and the ability to effectively communicate with other professionals.

They must also be certified in radiation protection, have a keen eye for detail, and possess excellent problem-solving skills. In addition, they must be able to handle a variety of tasks related to environmental safety, such as monitoring air quality, testing water samples, and conducting site surveys. By having these skills and qualifications, radiological inspectors can help minimize public exposure to hazardous levels of radiation and provide a safe environment for everyone.

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Job Description

Identify safety hazards and potential sources of radiation exposure.
Monitor radiation levels and ensure they are within acceptable limits.
Inspect radiation protection equipment, such as personal protective gear, detectors, and alarms.
Develop and review radiation safety plans and procedures.
Train personnel in proper radiation safety procedures.
Perform radiation surveys to detect contamination in buildings, equipment, and environment.
Analyze survey data and compile reports.
Consult with health physicists, radiation safety officers, and other experts on radiation safety issues.
Maintain detailed records of inspections, surveys, and other activities.
Investigate reports of radiation incidents and accidents.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of applicable regulations, standards, and protocols pertaining to radiologic safety.
Ability to interpret radiological measurements and survey results.
Knowledge of radiation safety, dosimetry, and radiation protection principles.
Ability to use radiation detection instruments and equipment.
Ability to interpret radiographic images and related documentation.
Ability to accurately document inspections and evaluations.
Ability to recognize unsafe or inadequate conditions and recommend corrective actions.
Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Knowledge of applicable laboratory techniques and technologies.

Radiological Inspectors play an important role in ensuring the safety of people and environments from potential hazards posed by the use of radiation. They must possess a number of skill sets in order to properly carry out their duties. These include being able to identify, assess and control potential radiation risks, as well as having an in-depth understanding of relevant regulations and standards.

Radiological Inspectors must have strong problem-solving abilities in order to be able to quickly and accurately identify issues and develop solutions for any radiation safety concerns. Furthermore, the ability to communicate effectively with those involved in the use of radiation is essential, so inspectors must possess good interpersonal and communication skills. Lastly, Radiological Inspectors must have excellent organizational skills in order to properly plan and manage their inspection activities.

These skills are essential for ensuring that adequate safety measures are taken in order to protect people and the environment from potential radiation-related hazards.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have as a Radiological Inspector?
What knowledge do you have of the regulations that govern Radiological Inspectors?
How would you handle a situation where a facility was not compliant with the regulations?
How would you work with other stakeholders to ensure safety and compliance?
What methods have you used to track progress on projects?
Describe a scenario where you had to use problem-solving skills to resolve a radiological issue.
Do you have experience in training staff on radiological safety protocols?
How do you keep abreast of changes in the radiological regulations?
How do you ensure accuracy when conducting inspections?
What challenges have you faced when dealing with complex radiological issues?

Common Tools in Industry

Radiation Survey Meter. Used to measure radiation levels in an area and alert on any dangerous levels. (e. g. Fluke 578 Radiation Meter)
Dosimeter. A device used to measure the cumulative exposure of radiation during a period of time. (e. g. Radwatch Personal Dosimeter)
Film Badge. A device containing photographic film that is used to measure the radiation exposure of a person or object. (e. g. Radex Film Badge)
Geiger Counter. An instrument used to detect and measure ionizing radiation. (e. g. Radex RD1503 Geiger Counter)
Scintillation Counter. A device that measures the intensity of ionizing radiation by detecting flashes of light created by interactions between radiation and a scintillator material. (e. g. Ludlum Model 44-9 Scintillation Counter)
Contamination Monitor. A device used to detect and measure radioactive contamination on surfaces. (e. g. Ludlum Model 3 Contamination Monitor)
Gamma Camera. A device used to create images of radiation distribution in the body for diagnostic purposes. (e. g. GammaMed Plus Gamma Camera System)
Spectrometer. An instrument used to measure the energy and intensity of gamma rays emitted from a sample. (e. g. Ludlum Model 2 Spectrometer)

Professional Organizations to Know

American Society of Radiologic Technologists
American College of Radiology
American Association of Radiologic Technologists
American Board of Radiology
National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements
International Atomic Energy Agency
Society for Radiological Protection
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health
International Commission on Radiological Protection
American Nuclear Society

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Common Important Terms

Radiological Source. Any material, device, or object that emits ionizing radiation.
Radiation Survey. A tool used to measure the amount of radiation present in an area.
Contamination. The presence of radioactive material in a location where it is not wanted.
Shielding. The use of a material to reduce the effects of radiation.
Exposure Limits:The maximum amount of radiation that can be safely received over a specific period of time.
Radioactive Decay. The process through which an unstable nucleus loses energy and undergoes a transformation into a different form.
Radiation Protection. Measures taken to protect people and the environment from the harmful effects of radiation.
Radiological Control. The set of policies and procedures used to protect people and the environment from the potentially hazardous effects of radiation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Radiological Inspector?

A Radiological Inspector is a professional who inspects, tests and monitors the use of radiation-producing devices, materials and processes to ensure that radiation sources are used safely and in compliance with applicable regulations.

What kind of qualifications do Radiological Inspectors need?

Radiological Inspectors typically need a bachelor's degree in a field such as health physics, radiological sciences, engineering, or nuclear science. In addition, relevant certifications are sometimes required for certain positions.

What duties do Radiological Inspectors perform?

Radiological Inspectors typically assess radiation levels, investigate radiation emergencies, inspect radiation sources and equipment, maintain radiation safety records, and provide education and training on radiation safety.

What is the average salary of a Radiological Inspector?

According to PayScale, the average salary for a Radiological Inspector is $58,855 per year. Salaries typically range from $42,531 to $80,153.

Where do Radiological Inspectors typically work?

Radiological Inspectors typically work in government agencies, research laboratories, manufacturing facilities, medical facilities, and other organizations that use radiation sources.