09/07/2025
ISO/IEC 17024 is an international standard that specifies requirements for bodies operating certification of persons, ensuring fairness, validity, and reliability in the certification process. It is relevant to radiation protection certification because it provides a framework for certifying individuals' competence in radiation safety assessments across various industries. Certification bodies seeking accreditation under this standard must demonstrate impartiality, competence, and adherence to established criteria in their assessment processes.
Key aspects of ISO/IEC 17024 in relation to radiation protection certification:
Harmonization:
The standard aims to harmonize the certification process for radiation protection professionals, promoting a consistent and reliable approach globally.
Competence Demonstration:
It requires certification bodies to demonstrate that individuals possess the necessary competence to perform specific tasks related to radiation safety assessment.
Impartiality and Independence:
The standard emphasizes the importance of impartiality and independence in the certification process, ensuring that decisions are objective and not influenced by external factors.
Global Recognition:
ISO/IEC 17024 accreditation provides global recognition for certified professionals, facilitating international collaboration and mobility in radiation protection.
Quality Management System:
Certification bodies seeking accreditation must implement a quality management system to ensure the integrity and effectiveness of their certification process.
In the context of radiation protection, ISO/IEC 17024 certification can:
Enhance the credibility and professionalism of radiation protection practitioners.
Improve the overall safety culture in organizations handling ionizing radiation.
Facilitate the development of competent personnel for nuclear power programs and other industries utilizing radiation.
Ensure that individuals working with radiation have the necessary knowledge, skills, and experience to minimize risks to themselves and others.
For example, in Brazil, the implementation of a certification process for Radiation Protection professionals in the medical field, accredited by a body adhering to ISO/IEC 17024, would enhance safety in the use of ionizing radiation in radiology, radiotherapy, and nuclear medicine.