Hi All, has anyone got qualified for above role, from being a safety adviser? I would like to take up this role in the organsation , any pointers to help me get there would be greatly appreciated- training course etc that you have attended etc Thanks in advance

So far as I am aware the only course for prospective RPAs is the one run by Strathclyde University. Details can be found on the AURPO website. http://www.aurpo.org/ind...&id=15&Itemid=38 However to practice as a RPA you will also have to fulfil the criteria set out to become Certificated under IRR 99 http://www.rpa2000.org.uk/ If you wish to become involved with the disposal of radioactive materials the EA and SEPA now require you to also seek accreditation under their regulations to become a “Qualified Expert”. Unless you have had previous experience of working with radioactive materials and strong science back ground you will find it a long uphill struggle and not guarantee of success at the end of it. I would suggest you discuss your aspirations with an experienced RPA who will talk you through the process. Sorry if this all sounds a bit negative but as someone who was involved in this area for many years, before I retired. I am aware it is not a simple process to become certificated.

U can be come academically qualified for almost anything depending on your personal gifts and the time and £ that you have to spend so best of luck as its a long road All the RPA's that I have worked when I was a practising RPS were PHD's; PHD's in proper qualification areas e.g. Physics and similar sciences, mathemathics etc. REgards

Does this help .........or confuse? http://www.hse.gov.uk/radiation/rpnews/rpa.htm

I am an RPA and CMIOSH but I did it the other way around to what you are proposing, RPA first, CMIOSH second. Much of the advice above is relevant. Standard practice is to attend the HPA (previously the NRPB) courses as a starting point and a science degree is pretty standard although not essential. You do not need an MSc or PhD. Your biggest problem may well be practical experience which is essential - just doing the courses is not enough. So if you don't already work in the nuclear industry or a hospital, for example, you will find it a struggle if not impossible. Most RPAs are trainees for some years before they gather the experience, put forward their portfolio to the accrediting body (RPA2000) and attain their certificate of competence. Then you need to be appointed as an RPA by your employer. So, a long and winding road but if you've the determination (and of course the cash or a willing employer to support you) then it is achievable. The remuneration is generally better than you might achieve for being a safety adviser/manager. There are several hundred RPAs in the UK compared to many thousands of safety professionals and currently there is a skill shortage Good luck Kevin

Hi I have just started a new course designed specifically for safety advisors wishing to become RPA's. It is run by University of Cumbria and is a Foundation Degree in Radiological Protection which they have the intention of making into a full BSc it is a part time degree (aboutone weeks tuition evry six weeks or so) currently it is being run at the Energus complex in Lillyhall Workington. I am finding it quite hard going but early days yet! there is an exam and assignment for every module, the tutors are excellent and have been very sympathetic to me who has never done any physics or chemistry. On joining the course you are also elligble for membership to the Radiological Society (I think the first year is free to enrolled students). The foundation degree is 3 years and the full BSc is 5 years. My company is sponsoring me to do this, but be aware the fees are set to rise to £9k per annum I think. Cheers Michelle