Radiation safety
At the Loviisa power plant, the radiation level in most of the facilities in the controlled area does not differ from natural radiation levels, but they have been prepared for an increase in activity and are regularly monitored. At the nuclear power plant, we work with radiation safety in mind, and for that reason employees are required to have certain skills, for which we offer training and we require compliance with the given instructions.
The validity of the radiation induction training (theory + practical) is a prerequisite for working in the controlled area. The theoretical part is valid for three years, and the refresher interval for the practical part is six years. The theoretical training provides basic knowledge of radiation and working at a nuclear power plant, and it can be refreshed through online training. Participation in classroom training is required the first time. The practical part covers access and exit procedures for the controlled area and includes hands-on training in the use of protective equipment for contamination work.
Special radiation protection training (high radiation risk training) is provided, on an occupational group–specific basis, for radiation-protection–challenging and extensive work tasks. The training materials are prepared on a task-specific basis, and the training focuses in a practical manner on the radiation protection challenges and risks associated with the work in question.
Employees working in the controlled area are classified as radiation workers in category A or B based on the radiation risks associated with their work and the estimated exposure.
In occupational groups where exposure is higher, employees are classified in category A. Employees classified as radiation workers in category A are required to have a valid medical certificate for radiation worker category A.
For radiation worker category B, there is no requirement to submit a medical certificate.
The preliminary classification is made based on the occupational group. The following occupational groups are classified as radiation workers in category A:
- insulation work
- waste handling and decontamination
- material inspection
- mechanical and machinery maintenance work
- cleaning
- radiation protection
Persons representing other occupational groups are classified as radiation workers in category B, unless the client identifies a need to classify the employees in a higher radiation worker category.
Roles and Procedures of the Radiation Safety Group
Due to the special nature of radiation, a radiation safety group operates in nuclear power plants. Radiation protection personnel take care of matters such as dosimetry, correct use of personal protectors, radiation protection instructions and adherence to the instructions, and inspections of the condition of radioactivity monitoring instruments. Procedures related to radiation protection activities are intended to ensure the radiation safety of personnel and the environment in all operation situations.
