State of Washington Classified Job Specification
HOSPITAL HEALTH PHYSICIST
Class Series Concept
Perform professional assignments related to hospital compliance with regulations and standards for the safe use of radiation for both patients and employees.
Definition
Under general direction, conduct a surveillance program of radiation machines and radioactive material in hospitals and clinics. Consult and train physicians, nurses and staff concerning radiation safety precautions.
Distinguishing Characteristics
First-level class of series. Inspect hospital radiation facilities and work practices to ensure compliance with hospital-related regulations.
Typical Work
Perform inspections, external and internal dosimetry, quality control of diagnostic instruments, initial performance evaluation of new instruments, specify and evaluate shielding.
Conduct calibration and area surveys of diagnostic and fluoroscopic X-ray facilities;
Conduct leak tests and inventory checks of sealed sources;
Monitor radiation patient rooms and advise attending staff of necessary precautions;
Monitor and survey nuclear medicine facilities;
Maintain radiation monitoring program for hospital personnel, including review and follow-up on reports of high exposures;
Assist in decontamination and clean up of spills of radioactive material;
May lead assigned radiation technicians and other support staff;
Prepare periodic reports on the status of hospital radiation safety programs;
Monitor ordering, receipt, storage and disposal of radioactive material;
Conduct training programs for employees on established radiation safety procedures;
Perform related duties as required.
Legal Requirement(s)
There may be instances where individual positions must have additional licenses or certification. It is the employer’s responsibility to ensure the appropriate licenses/certifications are obtained for each position.
Persons legally authorized to work in the U.S. under federal law, including Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals recipients, are eligible for employment unless prohibited by other state or federal law.
Desirable Qualifications
A Bachelor's Degree in science or engineering AND three years of professional experience in hospital radiation safety or medical physics program; OR a Master's Degree in radiological sciences and one year of professional experience in a radiation safety program involving work with medical X-ray equipment.
Equivalent education/experience will substitute for all minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license/certification/registration.
Class Specification History
Revise Class: 10-19-84
Revise MQ: 7-2-90
New class code, formerly 6060, effective July 1, 2007.
Revised Legal Requirements; effective June 6, 2024, due to adopted legislative action.