Job description
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.
Skills
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
- Strong knowledge of radiation protection principles and regulatory frameworks.
- Understanding of NORM occurrence and risks in industrial processes.
- Familiarity with radiation detection, measurement, and monitoring equipment.
Behavioral Competencies
- High attention to detail and strong risk awareness.
- Ability to enforce compliance and influence safe practices.
- Strong communication and training delivery skills.
- Analytical thinking and incident investigation capability.