TOPIC 12: Implementing a Radiation Protection Program

Let’s understand Record Keeping.

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In our Radiation Protection Manual let’s look at Record Keeping.

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Maintaining records is very important when dealing with radioactive materials.  The RSO records should include any document dealing with the radioactive materials.  It starts with copies of the license application and ALL correspondence with the regulator.

• All documents regarding the radioactive material from the paperwork when receiving it, to any paperwork involving the radioactive material’s location and eventual disposition, should be kept.
• All surveys for contamination performed, at whatever intervals the license states, should be kept.
• All reports on dosimetry, if the workers wear dosimeters or if area monitors are used, should be kept.

The RSO should get in the habit of signing these reports to acknowledge awareness of the radioactive material at the facility.

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Maintaining records is very important when dealing with radioactive materials.  Documents of required tasks is the primary and easiest method for maintaining … and conversely … for going out of compliance.  There are several suggestions:

1. Keep records current.
2. Make records available for unannounced inspections.
3. Move old records (after latest inspection) into an Archives Logbook.
4. Make the LOGBOOK available to a knowledgeable person in the event the RSO is not present for an unannounced inspection.
5. If records are electronic, make sure that they are immediately available during inspections and have signatures of the RSO.