key words: Radiography, RT-1 Certification

Radiography ensures the structural integrity, quality of equipment and structures such as vessels,
welded joints etc. X-ray equipment and radiography cameras used in radiography are operated by
radiographers. Negligent and careless operation by radiographers or untrained person can lead to
radiation accidents. This may results in excessive exposure to radiation workers and unnecessary
exposure to the public. Therefore, it is necessary for radiographer to understand thoroughly the
radiography techniques and radiation safety. Several fabrication and inspection codes, as well as AERB
insist for certified radiographers in radiography.
Industrial Radiography and Safety Aspects (IRG-1) was the first certification course on radiography
conducted in 1978 by Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC). 48 such courses were conducted
during 1978-93 and generated about 1400 radiographers. First radiography testing level-1 (RT-1) course
was conducted in September 1994 at Institute of Quality Management (IQM), Mumbai. Currently, this
course is conducted by four Institutes (1) IQM, Mumbai, (2) Quality NDT Training Institute, Pune, (3)
IRC Engineering Services, Noida and
(4) Indian Society for Non Destructive Testing, Trichy. However, the certification is jointly done by
BARC and Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB).
The RT-1 training course is conducted as per the ISO-9712, BIS-13805 document and the syllabus
approved by AERB. For participating in the course, the candidate should have a minimum qualification
of 10+2 or equivalent examination with Science subjects, and mathematics as one of the subject in 10 th
standard or, Diploma or Degree in engineering/science from a recognized Board/University. Also, the
candidate should have a minimum of six months radiography experience as a trainee radiographer with
approval from AERB and enrolled for personnel monitoring service of BARC. Duration of this course
is 15 working days. 21 lectures (51 hrs) and 9 practical demonstrations (27 hrs) from various topics in
radiography techniques and radiation safety are covered in this course.
The RT-1 examination consists of a written examination of three theory papers and two practical
examinations. Aggregate marks are weighted as per the ISO-9712 standard. The candidates are declared
successful on scoring marks not less than 70% each in written and practical examinations and not less
than 80% in aggregate. Head, Radiological Physics & Advisory Division, BARC appoints Convenor,
Board of examination for the RT-1 examination. On successful completion, certificates signed by
Director, Health, Safety & Environment Group, BARC are issued to the candidates.
Currently about 15 courses are conducted per year. 130 RT-1 courses have been conducted so far which
resulted in generation of about 3000 radiographers. The passing percentage is in range of 60 to 80 %.
From 2010 onwards, approximately 300 radiographers are being certified per year. Considering the
industrial and economical growth in India, the number of courses and radiographers are likely to
increase.