Radiation Safety and Risk Manager

Medical radiation practitioners are directly responsible for managing and responding to the risks in both healthcare and practice. This includes radiation dose to patients. It also addresses their responsibility for providing safe, effective and high-quality professional services, to ensure the safety of patients and other service users (AHPRA, 2019).

As a future radiographer, I understand that radiation safety is not only a professional responsibility but also an ethical obligation. Domain 5 emphasises the importance of minimising radiation exposure and managing risks to protect patients, staff, and the environment. I have made radiation safety a consistent priority throughout my clinical placements.

During practice, I am always mindful of patient dose, especially when imaging vulnerable patients such as paediatrics. I ensure that lead shielding is used appropriately to protect radiosensitive organs, and I consistently adhere to the ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) principle. I make a deliberate effort to avoid unnecessary repeat exposures by checking patient positioning, verifying markers, and communicating clearly before exposure. My supervisors have acknowledged my attention to detail and commitment to safe practice, stating I "respect the ALARA principle". I also make sure that I always ask for my seniors' help when I am not sure, to avoid unnecessary repeat exposures to my patients.

These actions reflect my understanding that radiation safety requires critical thinking, forward planning, and a strong awareness of patient wellbeing. Paediatric patients are more sensitive to ionising radiation, and knowing this has strengthened my responsibility to balance diagnostic quality with dose optimisation.

Moving forward, I will continue to refine my radiation safety strategies and remain accountable for every exposure I authorise. My commitment to radiation protection will remain a core value in my development as a competent, ethical, and responsible radiographer.

Evidence and References

Supervisor Feedback

Reference

Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency. (2019). Professional capabilities for medical radiation practice. https://www.medicalradiationpracticeboard.gov.au/Professional-Standards/Professional-capabilities-for-medical-radiation-practice.aspx