RS (NMTCB) - Radiation Safety Certification

Radiation Safety Certification (RS) is intended for professionals who work with or around ionizing radiation, particularly in healthcare, research, industrial, or nuclear power settings. This certification demonstrates expertise in radiation protection principles, safe handling of radioactive materials, regulatory compliance, and emergency response procedures related to radiation safety. The Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board (NMTCB) awards this certification.

Completion Time: 3.5 hours

Cost: $225

Exam Format

The exam includes 200 multiple-choice questions covering radiation physics, radiation biology, radiation protection standards, regulatory compliance, and emergency procedures.

Eligibility and Certification Requirements

• Hold an active certification in nuclear medicine technology (NMTCB, ARRT(N), or CAMRT(RTNM)) or an active certification in radiography or radiation therapy (CAMRT(RT), CAMRT(RTT), ARRT(R), or ARRT(T)) for at least two years.

• Must provide proof of at least one year of hands-on radiation safety experience, verified through the official NMTCB(RS) Radiation Safety Tasks Attestation Form.

Certification Process

• Complete necessary training or educational programs in radiation safety.

• Apply for certification through a recognized certifying body.

• After you take the radiation safety certification examination, your final score will be sent to you by mail within four to six weeks.

Radiation Safety Certification requires renewal every 10 years.

Eligibility for Renewal:

• Candidates must hold an active nuclear medicine credential (NMTCB, ARRT, or CAMRT).

• Renewal for another 10 years is automatic if the individual can provide proof of being named on a RAM license during the previous 7 years.

• Those who were not on a RAM license may still qualify if they can show at least 7 years of radiation safety experience under an RSO, supported by a letter from the RSO that includes the facility’s RAM license number.

• Anyone unable to meet either condition must recertify by examination.

Fees: All recertification applications require payment of the appropriate recertification fees.

Continuing education may include advances in radiation safety technology, updates in regulatory standards, and best practices in radiation protection and emergency response.

For specific information regarding Radiation Safety Certification, including eligibility criteria, examination details, approved educational programs, and renewal processes, it is recommended to consult directly with recognized certifying organizations, professional societies in health physics, or industry-specific safety organizations. These entities provide comprehensive resources and standards for professionals in the field of radiation safety.

Career Opportunities

Certified radiation safety professionals work in hospitals, medical facilities, research laboratories, nuclear power plants, and industrial settings.

Responsibilities include monitoring radiation levels, ensuring regulatory compliance, conducting safety training, and implementing radiation protection programs.

The NMTCB also offers the following certifications:

• Certified Nuclear Medicine Technologist (CNMT)

• Computed Tomography (CT)

• Nuclear Cardiology Technologist Certification (NCT)

• Nuclear Medicine Advanced Associate (NMAA)

• Positron Emission Technology (PET)