Health Physics Monitor Review

As a Health Physics Monitor, daily I monitor radiation and contamination in the form of Alpha, Beta and Gamma radiation. I am there to protect the workers, the public and the environment from radiological materials. Some tasks may include, personnel checks, request surveys, routine checks, entering higher radiation classification areas which you are then required to wear added PPE. We comply with Ionising Radiation Regulation 2017 as a monitor and as a company to assure we handle any radioactive materials in the correct manner.

I have developed my own skills working within a team, interpersonal skills and managerial skills. This has definitely contributed to my confidence in the workplace. I have gained new knowledge and understanding of the nuclear industry and the importance of radiation protection and nuclear safety, my role is very important in the nuclear industry as we are there to protect the workers from any risk of contamination.

I really enjoy my programme, as it is very different to my previous working experiences. No day is the same and I am very interested into the science behind radiation. I am happy with the level of learning and being able to get paid while training and working towards a qualification. This qualification then allows me to go anywhere in the world as it is a national certificate.

The programme is very structured, as an apprentice we rotate buildings allowing us to gain more knowledge and understanding of the different radiation buildings. I have college days on a Friday each week providing learning and information on radiation protection which helps me work better. It is a 2 year programme which allows enough time to be able to understand fully the job.

I receive a lot of support from my employer, if I have any issues with my workplace or team I am able to inform my supervisor and have this resolved quickly. If in the case I would like to progress and develop any skills or extra training I am able to come forward and do so. My employer provides a lot of different services if I become unwell, and also support with the pension scheme.

If I am in need of any help regarding my qualification I am able to get 1-1 support from my assessor who is from the training provider. I am able to set up meeting to go through my work, receive feedback and discuss any improvements. I also receive regular emails to keep me on track with my qualification.

My qualification is in depth information about radiation protection, this goes back to the history and the discovery of radiation, discovery of the different kind of radiation and the effects. It also goes into detail about the different instruments we use in the work place, also all the knowledge and information I need to do with my role. This really helps me and makes it easier for me to understand my role more.

I am apart of the apprentice council, which is where a member from each scheme comes together to discuss any issues that the apprentices me have to do with their programme, we have action plans and procedures to follow to get these resolved. There are team building activities and opportunities to be apart of different events throughout the year. We are also able to be apart of the charity committee, which is planning the fundraising activities for the companies chosen charity of the year.

Yes

I would recommend Sellafield as it is a great company to work for, I feel they are always willing to help if you need it. They have a good work ethic and an excellent approach to the importance of nuclear safety. There are excellent career opportunities and always room for progression, extra training and a great pension scheme.

If applying for Sellafield I'd advice to research the history of Sellafield, and what Sellafield do as a company, look into their core values, the future plans for the company. It would be recommended to understand the different roles that are available and also the importance of nuclear safety.