What is the role of the Radiation Safety Officer (RSO)?

• A. Calibrate dosimeters
• B. Implement the radiation safety program, regulatory compliance, audits, training, incident response, maintain records
• C. Operate imaging equipment
• D. Only train staff

Answer: (B)

The role being tested is the person responsible for implementing and overseeing the entire radiation safety program across the organization, ensuring regulatory compliance and safe practices. An RSO develops and enforces policies and procedures, coordinates dosimetry and exposure monitoring, oversees shielding and facilities, and maintains records and documentation for inspections. They lead periodic audits of programs and facilities, organize and track staff training, and coordinate incident response and corrective actions to protect people and the environment. They also act as the primary contact with regulators and ensure the facility stays in compliance with license conditions and applicable laws. While calibrating dosimeters or operating imaging equipment are important tasks in radiology, they are carried out by specialized teams or clinicians; training is indeed part of the RSO’s duties, but it is not the sole responsibility.