ASNT IRRSP study plan

Define atomic structure terms (proton, neutron, electron, isotope, isomer) and label each on a self-drawn atom model for Ir-192, Co-60, and Se-75.

Distinguish alpha, beta, gamma, x-ray, and neutron radiation by charge, mass, and penetrating power, then rank them by shielding thickness required.

Explain the inverse square law and calculate the new dose rate at a specified distance given an initial dose rate and distance, showing units at every step.

Compute photon energy, frequency, and wavelength using E = hf and c = f(lambda), and convert between keV and MeV.

Contrast bremsstrahlung and characteristic x-ray production with gamma emission from a radioactive decay scheme.

Calculate half-value layer and tenth-value layer shielding thicknesses for Ir-192 and Co-60 and derive the transmitted dose rate through a stated thickness.

Differentiate absorbed dose, equivalent dose, and effective dose, and convert between rad/Gy and rem/Sv without reference notes.

Classify specific outcomes (erythema, cataract, cancer, heritable effect) as deterministic or stochastic and state the dose dependence of each.

State the approximate dose thresholds for key deterministic effects and explain the linear no-threshold assumption used for stochastic risk.

Apply time-distance-shielding controls to a described radiography scenario and justify each chosen control using computed dose reduction.

Match ionization chamber, Geiger-Mueller, proportional, and scintillation detectors to radiation type, energy response, and intended field use.

Explain calibration, energy dependence, and dead time, and describe how each distorts a displayed survey meter reading.

Demonstrate, in writing, the pre-use survey meter check sequence: battery, response to a check source, and calibration date verification.

Distinguish film, TLD, and OSL dosimeters by sensitivity, measuring range, and wearing/placement rules, then interpret a sample dosimetry report.

Interpret a reported exposure reading while accounting for instrument efficiency and stated measurement uncertainty.

Identify the major components of a gamma exposure device and a shielded storage container and state the function of each part.

Explain the operation of the drive cable, guide tube, collimator, and source assembly, and list the pre-exposure checklist items in order.

Describe how an x-ray generator produces radiation and compare kV, mA, and exposure time control with gamma source activity selection.

Explain the safety function of the device lock, the source position indicator, and the survey-meter confirmation of source return.

Calculate exposure time and source-to-film distance tradeoffs and predict film density change from a change in activity or distance.

Classify requirements into licensing, registration, inspection, and recordkeeping, and assign the responsible party for each.

Describe the required content and retention of survey logs, utilization logs, dosimetry reports, and equipment maintenance records.

State occupational, public, minor, and declared-pregnant-worker dose limits and identify which limit governs a described situation.

Sequence the steps to obtain, amend, and terminate a license, and identify the reporting timelines for a lost source, damaged source, or overexposure.

List required postings, labels, and signage for an exposure area, a storage location, and a transport package.

Order the actions to take when a survey meter shows the source has not returned to the shielded position, ranked by priority.

Distinguish immediate actions and the notification chain for a stuck source, a lost source, a fire, and a suspected personal overexposure.

Calculate the exposure rate and estimated dose at a stated distance from an unshielded source and derive an initial evacuation radius.

Describe how to establish, mark, and control a restricted area and barrier during an emergency response.

Explain the purpose and required content of an emergency response plan and a post-incident investigation report.

Re-solve every item missed in weeks 1 through 6 and write a one-sentence governing rule for each.

Integrate all six domains by walking through a complete job from setup to source return and naming the governing domain at each step.

Recalculate the 10 highest-error calculations (inverse square, HVL/TVL, dose unit conversion) without notes.

Explain the risk of a stated exposure in plain, non-technical language suitable for a client or bystander.

Complete two full 100-question timed practice tests under exam conditions with no notes.

Score 85% or better on the second test and close every remaining sub-80% domain gap.

Recite all key formulas, dose limits, and reporting timelines from memory in under five minutes.