Radiation Safety Officer

Job Purpose

The Radiation Safety Officer (RSO) is responsible for establishing and maintaining a robust radiation protection framework across industrial operations. The role ensures safe handling and control of radioactive materials (including Naturally Occurring Radioactive Material – NORM), compliance with regulatory requirements, and protection of employees, the public, and the environment from radiation risks.

Key Responsibilities

Radiation Safety & Compliance

Develop, implement, and continuously improve the Radiation Protection Program (RPP).
Ensure compliance with applicable local regulations and international standards.
Serve as the focal point for regulatory authorities, audits, and inspections.
Maintain all licenses, permits, and regulatory documentation related to radiation and radioactive materials.

NORM Management & Industrial Radiation Control

Establish and oversee procedures for the management, handling, storage, and disposal of NORM generated from industrial processes (e.g., oil & gas operations).
Monitor and assess radiation risks associated with operational equipment, pipelines, and waste streams.
Ensure appropriate labeling, segregation, and tracking of radioactive materials and contaminated equipment.
Coordinate safe transport and disposal of radioactive waste in line with regulations.

Workplace Monitoring & Risk Control

Conduct routine radiation surveys and environmental monitoring.
Define controlled and supervised areas and enforce access control measures.
Ensure availability, calibration, and proper use of radiation monitoring instruments.
Apply and promote ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) principles across operations.

Training & Awareness

Develop and deliver radiation safety training programs for employees and contractors.
Ensure competency and awareness of personnel working in radiation-prone environments.
Promote a proactive safety culture related to radiation protection.

Monitoring, Reporting & Documentation

Monitor occupational radiation exposure and maintain accurate dose records.
Investigate incidents, deviations, or abnormal radiation readings and implement corrective actions.
Prepare internal and regulatory reports on radiation safety performance.
Maintain records of inspections, audits, equipment calibration, and radioactive material inventory.

Emergency Preparedness

Develop and maintain radiation emergency response plans.
Lead response efforts in case of radiation incidents, contamination events, or loss of control of radioactive materials.
Conduct drills and evaluate emergency preparedness effectiveness.

Qualifications & Requirements

Educational Requirments

Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in a relevant scientific or engineering field such as Physics, Nuclear Engineering, Radiological Science, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or equivalent.

Experience

Minimum 3 years of experience in radiation safety, industrial radiation control, or related fields (preferably in oil & gas or heavy industry).

Certifications

Completion of a recognized Radiation Safety Officer (RSO) course or equivalent radiation protection training.
MOH radiation license or the eligibility for one.
Familiarity with or training in NORM management from the International Atomic Energy Agency (e.g., Management and Control of NORM in industry) is preferred.
Experience in regulated industrial environments with hazardous materials is an advantage.

Technical Skills