What is the role of the Radiation Safety Officer (RSO) in a dental practice?

• A. The RSO ensures regulatory compliance, oversees training and QA programs, maintains records and dose monitoring, and promotes ALARA.
• B. The RSO schedules patient appointments
• C. The RSO handles marketing
• D. The RSO maintains decor

Answer: (A)

The RSO’s job is to maintain a safe radiation environment in the dental practice by overseeing the entire radiation safety program and ensuring regulatory compliance. This includes making sure the staff are properly trained, that QA and quality control programs are in place, and that records of exposure, equipment maintenance, and calibrations are kept up to date. The RSO also promotes ALARA—As Low As Reasonably Achievable—by implementing protective measures such as proper shielding, use of lead aprons and thyroid collars, correct beam alignment, appropriate exposure settings, and adherence to safe imaging techniques. In practice, this means staying current with federal, state, and local regulations, coordinating staff training, performing or supervising QA tests, monitoring personnel doses, and maintaining documentation needed for audits and patient safety. Roles like scheduling appointments, marketing, or decor aren’t part of radiation safety oversight.