List the assessment methods to be used and the context and resources required for assessment. Copy and paste the relevant sections from the evidence guide below and then re-write these in plain English.
ELEMENTS | PERFORMANCE CRITERIA |
Elements describe the essential outcomes | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. Where bold italicised text is used, further information is detailed in the range of conditions section. |
1. Procure suitable instruments | 1.1 Determine types of ionising radiation measuring instruments required by the organisation to monitor hazards associated with current or future radiation-related work activities. 1.2 Research information about specifications and features of instruments that may be suitable and their suppliers. 1.3 Liaise with suppliers and/or conduct tests to compare the stated performance of available instruments against the organisation’s specifications. 1.4 Seek advice and assistance with evaluating instruments if beyond own technical competence. 1.5 Select the most suitable instruments and arrange for their procurement. |
2. Commission new instruments | 2.1 Use manufacturer’s documentation to develop a thorough understanding of instrument operation, functional test procedures, routine instrument checks and maintenance requirements. 2.2 Ensure that the instrument has been calibrated appropriately for its intended use. 2.3 Conduct component checks and test measurements to confirm instrument performance for intended use. 2.4 Enter required information about the new instrument into the organisation’s information management system. 2.5 Develop and document clear procedures for operating, caring for and maintaining the instrument. |
3. Train instrument operators | 3.1 Identify the skills and knowledge required to operate the instrument safely and reliably in the workplace and interpret the radiation quantities measured. 3.2 Develop appropriate training program for instrument operators using established adult learning principles. 3.3 Ensure that each operator can use the instrument competently for the required measurement applications. 3.4 Record training outcomes in accordance with regulator requirements and organisational procedures. 3.5 Audit operators’ use of instruments at regular intervals to ensure their ongoing competence. |
4. Maintain instruments fit for purpose | 4.1 Conduct regular instrument checks and minor maintenance in accordance with organisation’s radiation management plan. 4.2 Check instrument calibration using specified standards and procedures, and record relevant information. 4.3 Troubleshoot basic faults and determine whether local repair or maintenance is technically possible and economical. 4.4 Arrange for repair or servicing from an accredited agent or other appropriate personnel. 4.5 Check instrument’s performance after repair or service before approving it for use. 4.6 Maintain required records that are complete, accurate, legible and secure. |
Evidence required to demonstrate competence must satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria. If not otherwise specified the candidate must demonstrate evidence of performance of the following on at least one occasion.
Recognising types of measuring instruments and the advantages and limitations of their use, including at least one of:
air proportional
gas proportional
gas ionisation
Geiger-Muller (GM)
compensated GM
scintillation
neutron monitors
solid state
personal dosimeters (badge and electronic)
locating, interpreting and comparing information about measuring instruments used by organisation
selecting suitable instruments by analysing factors, including at least one of:
intended use (fixed/portable, laboratory/field)
range of radiation types
intensities and energies
accuracy
sensitivity
response time
robustness
serviceability
limitations
conducting pre-use and calibration checks, troubleshooting common faults, conducting basic repairs of and maintaining radiation measuring instruments
safely operating radiation measuring instruments to obtain reliable data
processing and analysing radiation measurement data and applying established corrections
interpreting manuals and writing operating instructions for radiation measuring instruments
Evidence required to demonstrate competence must satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria. If not otherwise specified the depth of knowledge demonstrated must be appropriate to the job context of the candidate.
ionising radiation, radioactivity, radioactive material, activity, dose, contamination, contamination controls, shielding, half-life, and radionuclide
operating voltage, accuracy, response time, sensitivity, detection limit, linearity, source-detector geometry and distance corrections, compensation
types, energies and properties of ionising radiation, sources and shielding methods
radiation quantities, including exposure, dose, tissue weighting factor, effective dose, dose rate, radiation weighting factor, dose equivalent, and dose limits
international system (SI) of units for radiation quantities, multiples and sub-multiples
techniques for conducting measurements and monitoring surveys
characteristics, capabilities, limitations, function of key components and operating principles of radiation measuring instruments
role and importance of regular calibration and pre-use checks and maintenance
common instrument faults, troubleshooting, and recommended remedial actions and repairs
common instrument operator errors
techniques for assessing radiation hazards likely to be encountered in job role
guidelines and safety procedures for working with radiation sources, based on principles of:
reducing exposure time
maintaining greatest distance
using as much shielding as possible
health, safety and workplace emergency response procedures relevant to job role
This unit contains no specific industry-mandated assessment conditions. Guidance on suggested and recommended conditions and methods can be found in the Implementation Guide.
Assessors must satisfy the NVR/AQTF mandatory competency requirements for assessors.