Who should be involved in overseeing a dental practice’s radiation safety program?

• A. The dentist alone.
• B. The practice manager.
• C. The Radiation Safety Officer (RSO) oversees the program and regulatory compliance.
• D. The device manufacturer.

Answer: (C)

The important concept is that a dental practice needs a single designated person to oversee the entire radiation safety program and regulatory compliance. This Radiation Safety Officer coordinates and maintains all elements of safety: written policies, staff training, quality assurance and calibration of equipment, proper use and shielding, exposure monitoring, and recordkeeping. The RSO also ensures the practice follows ALARA principles and stays compliant with state and federal rules, reporting any issues and coordinating with regulators as needed. The person in this role can be the dentist or another qualified staff member who has the authority and training to implement and enforce the program.

The other options don’t provide the necessary, formal oversight. The dentist alone may not have a structured process for ongoing safety management and compliance. The practice manager focuses on administration and may not have the technical authority or training to manage the radiation safety program. The device manufacturer is responsible for the equipment, not for the day-to-day safety program and regulatory compliance of the practice.