With scientists now saying that the third wave this summer will be just a ripple , it is hopefully not tempting fate to reflect on the impact this pandemic has had on the radiation protection profession , SRP and us , its members . The impacts have been wide ranging , from talking whilst on mute to coping with the loss of a loved one , which is beyond what anyone should have to bear . In reviewing our reactions to the pandemic we can identify those things which will make us stronger in the future . The enormous suffering will then not have been entirely in vain .
Firstly then , a daunting recap for the hugely diverse world of radiation protection . We suggest we all reacted in the same way . Evaluated what was essential to keep going , parked what we could and posted a sentry around it , adapted , and did a risk assessment . What that looked like in reality varied by sector . Reactors , like dogs , do not like being neglected , whereas X-ray generators , like teenagers , wouldn ’ t notice if you were there or not . In the universities , students and much of research were sent home to keep calm and carry on but left their radiation behind to be nurtured by us . For some it was a time to spring-clean , or to finally try to make sense of an ACoP paragraph or a permit condition ( please share any revelations with Radiation Protection Today via a letter to the Editor or even present a webinar ), but for a small percentage of our members their world went into overdrive . Imagine , if you will , being told that next week your workplace was being replicated and quadrupled in an exhibition hall a few miles away , and you are responsible for the radiation protection , whilst coping with significant changes in radiation use in your regular workplace .
Nightingale hospitals epitomised the stresses of the first wave and the challenges faced by our colleagues in the medical sector . Staff , seconded from many local employers , using X-ray equipment you have never even heard of before , in hangar-sized wards . Imagine
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