Refresher course TMS-VRS D
Target group
Individuals that occupationally work with dispersible radioactive substances, and hold a diploma TMS-VRS D.
Study goals
The refresher course is based on the following goals:
- securing knowledge and skills at the level of TMS-VRS D;
- broadening knowledge with respect to the use and applications of sources of ionizing radiation;
- developing skills and keeping them in line with the required standards for safe modes of operation and a safe working environment;
- gaining insight into the radiation protection organization and all functions involved in this organization within the institutions that participate in the complex license Randwyck.
Required participation
Keeping up skills and knowledge in the field of radiation protection is a legal requirement for everyone working in a field where one can be exposed to sources of ionizing radiation. The Radiation Protection Unit has developed a customized program to fulfil this requirement, which offers choices for participation in such a way that one can choose subjects that target different applications and zoom in on specific fields or subjects with the goal to meet various participants’ needs. However, when it comes to practical training elements, participation is obligatory for all. The Radiation Protection Unit manages the cohort of exposed employees within the complex license, and actively approaches employees that must participate in these programs personally.
Minimum requirement for participation
For all employees within the complex license that qualify for participation, participation requirements are set. For the current period (2023-2024), 1 practical assignment, 1 tutorial and 2 lectures must be attended. This implies a time investment of 10 hours over a two year period. The Radiation Protection Unit monitors participation.
Meeting this minimum participation requirement is obliged for keeping ones authorization for autonomously working with dispersible sources of ionizing radiation within or outside of the department of Radionuclides Laboratories (RNL) of the Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences (FHML).
What to do in case of insufficient participation
In case an employee does not meet the requirement for participation, it cannot be proven that this individual’s knowledge meets the required standards. For this reason, their authorization for working autonomously with dispersible sources of ionizing radiation in research is withdrawn. This can only be reversed after the individual has proven to have the right knowledge by passing a regular multiple choice exam of the course TMS-VRS D. Of course, after recommencing authorized work, the obligation to participate in the refresher program still stands.
Content and language
The course is essentially offered in English. However, if circumstances allow, smaller groups may be taught in Dutch.
The educational program consists of face-to-face educational forms like lectures, tutorials and practical assignments. The program is drafted every two years, at which time a minimum requirement is established for participation. The current program can be found under the subject program.
Organization
The refresher program is organized by the Radiation Protection Unit Randwyck. The responsible educational officer oversees the quality of the program, together with the Exam Committee Radiation Protection Education Randwyck. The mode of operation has been formalized in a procedure and regulations.
Some parts of the program have been accredited by the Dutch Authority on Nuclear Safety and Radiation Protection (ANVS), which means they render points for registration with the government as an accredited radiation protection expert. The Radiation Protection Unit can provide you with more information on the subject.
Cost for participation
Participation in the refresher course is free of cost for employees of UM, MUMC+, Maastro, Maastro Proton therapy B.V. and Brightlands Incubators Maastricht B.V. For third parties with interest in participation, a fee applies; please contact us for more information.