Certified RSOs: Key to Radiation Safety Compliance

March 14, 2025

When it comes to radiation safety, having the right person in charge isn’t optional—it’s essential. That’s where the Radiation Safety Officer (RSO) comes in. In many licensed industrial settings, a certified RSO plays a vital role in ensuring that radiation safety programs meet both operational needs and CNSC compliance requirements.

What Does an RSO Do?

An RSO is a trained professional responsible for implementing and managing radiation safety programs within an organization. Their core duties include:

• Monitoring radiation use and exposure
• Maintaining safety documentation and licensing
• Leading incident response and mitigation
• Ensuring compliance with the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) regulations
• Training employees on proper safety protocols

Why Is RSO Training Important?

RSO training ensures that the designated individual understands regulatory obligations, knows how to use detection tools, and is prepared to lead safety programs effectively. A lack of proper training can result in:

• Fines or penalties from the CNSC
• Workplace incidents due to radiation mishandling
• Delays or shutdowns during inspections
  

How often do Radiation Safety Officers need to recertify their training?

According to Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) guidelines, most licensees are recommended to recertify their Radiation Safety Officer (RSO) training once every licensing period, which is typically every 5 (five) years. This helps ensure RSOs stay up to date with evolving regulations, best practices, and compliance standards.

Who Needs a Certified RSO?

Any organization using sealed radioactive sources must appoint a certified RSO to remain compliant. This includes:

• Portable Nuclear Gauge (PNG) operations
• Fixed Nuclear Gauge (FNG) operations
• Non-Destructive Testing (NDT)
• Manufacturing processes using sealed sources
• Engineering and construction projects using nuclear gauges

The Impact of a Certified RSO

A trained and certified RSO contributes to:

• Safer work environments
• Smoother CNSC inspections
• Reduced liability and downtime
• Higher trust from clients and regulators
  
  

RSO Training Options at Stuart Hunt & Associates Ltd.

We offer flexible training formats to meet your operational needs:

• In-person training in Edmonton and Mississauga
• Online training available across Canada
• On-site group sessions for your team

📅 View upcoming training dates: https://www.stuarthunt.com/training/in-person-training

Whether you're appointing your first Radiation Safety Officer or ensuring your team stays up to date, proper training is your key to compliance and peace of mind. If your organization is due for RSO recertification or you're onboarding new staff, our certified instructors are here to help.

Have questions or need a quote?
✉️ Email: sales@stuarthunt.com
📱 Phone: +1 (800) 661-4591