Health physics technicians monitor radiation levels in various settings, including nuclear facilities and hospitals. They use specialized equipment to detect harmful emissions, collect samples, and send data to health supervisors. Technicians can also provide employee training and work independently with experience.
A health physics technician tests and monitors radiation levels in a hospital, nuclear facility, waste disposal site, or power plant. A professional uses sophisticated portable and laboratory equipment to accurately detect the presence of potentially harmful emissions. Data is collected and organized into official reports and passed on to health supervisors. Additionally, a health physics technician can provide employee training to help workers understand the risks of radiation exposure and know what to do in an emergency situation.
Most health technicians work in laboratories and industries where nuclear materials are handled. Many technicians are full-time employees of nuclear facilities, but some are travel inspectors employed by regional or national health and safety organizations. To measure the presence of radiation, a technician can take samples of air, soil, or water in and around a facility. Some professionals carry real-time meters capable of analyzing certain types of radiation on site. There are usually very strict protocols in place regarding sample collection, handling, and storage to protect the technician and other workers.
After the samples are collected, the technician takes them to a laboratory so that scientists can test them using computerized equipment. Most modern health physics laboratories are equipped with state-of-the-art tools that can calculate very accurate radiation levels. In cases where test results reveal acceptable levels, the technician documents, dates and sends the findings to the employer. If exposure risks are greater than they should be, he or she will immediately notify supervisors and assist with containment efforts.
A health physics technician may also work in a hospital or operating room to monitor the effects of radiation on patients and staff. Medical technicians have specialized knowledge of x-ray equipment and other diagnostic and therapeutic imaging machines that emit radiation. They routinely monitor overall environmental exposure levels and perform body scans on employees to ensure they are healthy. Technicians can also explain the importance of proper safety precautions and teach workers how to protect themselves and their patients.
The requirements to become a health physics technician can vary by region and industry. Most technicians have at least bachelor’s degrees in physics, chemistry, or biochemistry. Some employers hire undergraduate college students to provide formal field training. A new health physics technician in any setting typically spends several weeks helping other professionals and mastering tools and techniques. With experience, a technician can start working independently at a nuclear power plant or hospital.
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