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Authors:
A. N. Falcão (1) , C. Oliveira (1), R. Trindade (1)
M. C. Lopes (2) and M. C. de Sousa (2)
Full affiliations:
(1) Instituto Tecnológico e Nuclear, Estrada Nacional 10, 2686-953 Sacavém, Portugal
(2) IPOFG-CROC, S. A. Av. Bissaya Barreto, 3000-075 Coimbra, Portugal
Abstract:
The present situation in what concerns education and training in radiation protection in Portugal is reviewed. A project to raise the level of qualification of professionals dealing with ionizing radiation and to upgrade the overall safety standards to internationally accepted levels is presented. The project proposes both a new legislative package, and specific education and training programs for professionals dealing with medical and industrial radiation applications.
The need to create a regulatory authority centralizing competences presently dispersed by different institutions is stressed. Special emphasis is given to that of certifying training centers and trained professionals.
It is identified the need to qualify professionals for three different levels of responsibility. The number and geographical distribution of those professionals is estimated. Specific education and training programs for the medical and industrial working environment and for the three levels of qualification are outlined. A well equipped training center is proposed to be created to prepare the higher qualified professionals. The center will be directed by a partnership between ITN and IPOFG-CROC, which are Portuguese reference institutions with experience in both theoretical and operational radiation protection. Active collaboration with the IAEA in the preparation and lecture of the courses is recommended. On job complementary training will be carried out at certified institutions.
Prospects for the implementation of the project are discussed.
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