Level 2 Radiation Worker Training

Radiation Level 2 Training is a preparatory course that teaches students to recognize where radioactive contamination is coming from. The student is also trained in controlling the contamination and preventing contamination from spreading. The graduates of the Level 2 training apply the skills learned to ensure that the radiation in the work environment is as low as reasonably achievable (ALARA). The certified training is effective for two years. At the end of the two years, candidates have the option of taking an exam for re-certification rather than attending hands-on training.

Define Contamination

• Radiation exposure from a chest x-ray

  Trainees for Radiation Level 2 Training learn the definition of contamination and the different types of radiation that travel through heat, light and sound. Contamination by electromagnetic radiation like X-rays and particulate radiation like Beta radiation, which travels through skin, or Alpha radiation, which can't travel through skin, are emphasized.

Radioactive Sources

• Bottled man-made radiation

  Radioactive training teaches the sources of radiation and their harmful effects. Everyone is exposed to some radiation, but knowing the amounts of radiation received from different sources is important. A few of the radiation sources covered in the training are: natural cosmic radiation, radioactivity in body tissue, air travel, X-rays, radon exposure in the home, and man-made radiation in medicines and laboratories.

Control Contamination

• Limiting exposure to radiation

  Controlling the exposure to radiation is another important skill learned during Radiation Level 2 Training. Techniques covered in the training include limiting the exposure to radiation by shortening time of exposure, working quickly in the radiation area, working in teams, using distance as a prevention, implementing radiation barriers to reduce exposure, and putting limits on radioactive materials in the workplace.

Safety Precautions

• Respiratory device

  Techniques of working safely while exposed to radiation are covered in the training course. Trainees learn methods of avoiding radiation contact through the use of protective clothing, including protective gloves, coveralls and boots.

  Hands-on techniques with respiratory devices are taught in case of airborne radioactive dust particles, fumes or fire. Trainees are instructed in aiding contaminated victims, washing after contamination and using radiation-monitoring devices in the contaminated area.

Decontamination Procedures

• Trainees must show hands-on safety procedures.

  A large part of Level 2 radiation training is decontamination procedures. Radiation is an extremely dangerous substance that radiation control personnel have to deal with. Trainees must demonstrate decontamination procedures to the instructor. This includes identifying any dangerous situations, using respiratory protocols and protective clothing, and establishing a control zone where only essential personnel are allowed and where all contaminated objects remain. Trainees must also score at least eighty percent in the written examination.