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Webinars

Radiation Safety and Wellness Webinars

Our Radiation Safety and Wellness Webinar Series continues to bring you radiation safety content along with wellness sessions to support your overall well-being.

As the series develops, information about the sessions will be posted here and on our social media sites. As they complete, we will change the registration links to a link to the video recording and any resource materials. We’re glad to be back, and hope you can join us!

2023-2024
Date & Topic
Description Video & Notes
November 30, 2023:
C-NRPP Test of Consumer-Grade Electronic Radon Monitors

This year for National Radon Action Month, November, our webinar overviews the most recent results of the Canadian National Radon Proficiency Program (C-NRPP)’s test of consumer-grade electronic radon monitors. To provide Canadian consumers with an unbiased performance-based comparison of the electronic radon monitors available to them, the C-NRPP developed a test procedure and conducts regular performance tests using RSIC’s certified radon chamber. Pam Warkentin, the executive director of the Canadian Association of Radon Scientist and Technologists (CARST) and the C-NRPP, and Brian Bjorndal, Director of the Fergal Nolan National Laboratories, present on the study’s most recent results. Kelley Bush and Alexander Lemieux from Health Canada join during the Q&A to talk about Health Canada’s National Radon Outreach & Stakeholder Engagement Program in general and radon research in particular, including their tests of consumer-grade electronic radon monitors. The information session is followed by a 20-minute wellness break: beginner Tai-Chi led by Charlmane Wong of Ji Hong Tai Chi & Qi Gong of Richmond Hill, Ontario.

Video: https://youtu.be/g2z8C6KJkxE

PDF Slides: Consumer Radon Detectors

Additional Materials: Radon Resources

2022-2023
Date & Topic

Description Video & Notes
June 27, 2023:
New Training Standard for TDG

Find out more about the new CAN/CGSB-192.3 Transportation of Dangerous Goods Training, Assessment, and Competency standard expected to be implemented into Transport Canada regulations later this year. The intended webinar audience are those who transport nuclear materials as part of their licence with the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) or their work with Naturally Occurring Radioactive Material (NORM); but, the standard applies to all dangerous goods classes, and all are welcome to attend. Lynn MacDonald, RSIC Manager of Training, gives a presentation followed by a Q&A session with Lynn and Laura Boksman, Health Physicist, Radiation Protection Consultant, and former chief scientist with RSIC. The information session is followed by a 20-minute wellness break: beginner Tai-Chi led by Charlmane Wong of Ji Hong Tai Chi & Qi Gong of Richmond Hill, Ontario.

Video: https://youtu.be/lQuxlA83GGw

PDF Slides: CGSB 192.3 TDG Training

References: CGSB 192.3 References

May 23, 2023:
The Canadian Light Source: Synchrotron Radiation Protection

Learn about radiation protection at the Canadian Light Source (CLS), a national synchrotron research facility at the University of Saskatchewan. We speak with Grant Cubbon, Health, Safety & Environmental Department Manager at the facility. The 40-minute radiation safety portion is followed by a 20-minute health movement break in the form of beginner Tai-Chi led by Charlmane Wong of of Ji Hong Tai Chi & Qi Gong of Richmond Hill, Ontario.

Video: https://youtu.be/4BKpxGt6W1A

PDF Slides: CLS

Mar 23, 2023:
Small Modular Reactors – Radiation Protection Considerations

Learn about radiation protection considerations for Small Modular Reactors. This webinar was presented online on March 23, 2023 and features an interview with our guest, Josip Zic, Health Physics Director at McMaster University and President of Senior Health Physicist Nuclear Services. With his experience in health physics, licensing, regulatory affairs, radiological waste management, and power generation, we are pleased to have had Josip with us to share knowledge on small modular reactors with a focus on radiation protection. The 40-minute radiation safety portion is followed by a 20-minute health movement break in the form of beginner Tai-Chi led by Charlmane Wong of of Ji Hong Tai Chi & Qi Gong of Richmond Hill, Ontario.

Video: https://youtu.be/_GkpqoD7mjU

PDF Slides: Small Modular Reactors

Feb 17, 2023:
Radiation Survey & Instrumentation

The webinar begins with a short introduction to the topic but quickly move to a presentation by Franz Dambo, Director of Radiological Protection Services for Nuvia Canada. Nuvia is an international company involved with major nuclear projects, including design and supply of sophisticated radiation protection and detection instruments.
Franz explains and demonstrates common types of survey instruments, basic checks to be done with survey meters, and differences in types of radiation surveys. After the demonstration portion, Franz answers questions from those in attendance.
The 40-minute radiation safety portion is followed by a 20-minute health movement break in the form of beginner Tai-Chi led by Charlmane Wong of Ji Hong Tai Chi & Qi Gong of Richmond Hill, Ontario.

Video: https://youtu.be/uoJAGnfuYtM

PDF Slides: Surveys & Instruments

Q&A: Will Be Posted Soon!

Jan 23, 2023:
Hands-Free Imaging in Veterinary Practice

The webinar begins with short overview of x-rays and radiation protection. This is followed by an interview and Q&A session with Julia Bitan, RVT. Julia founded the Hands-Free X-Rays Initiative to address concerns for radiation protection in veterinary medicine.
The 40-minute radiation safety portion is followed by a 20-minute health movement break in the form of beginner Tai-Chi led by Charlmane Wong of Ji Hong Tai Chi & Qi Gong of Richmond Hill, Ontario.

Video: https://youtu.be/WE3L1qStUos
PDF Slides: Hands-Free Veterinary
Q&A: Hands-Free Q&A

Nov 16, 2022:
Energy Efficiency & Radon – Making the Connection

As part of Radon Action Month, Dr. Anne-Marie Nicol of Simon Fraser University, Dr. Noah Quastel of the BC Lung Foundation, and Pam Warkentin of CARST joined us to discuss the impact of energy efficiency measures on indoor radon levels. While ensuring our homes and buildings are energy efficient is of great importance, doing so can increase the amount of this invisible carcinogen trapped indoors. The webinar includes information on health, safety, and the legal landscape, as well as solutions going forward. Whether you are homeowner, renter, or indoor worker, this information is for you. It is particularly relevant to those in energy efficient homes and buildings, and those in the construction, home renovation, building management, energy efficiency, radon testing and radon mitigation industries.
The 40-minute radiation safety portion was followed by a 20-minute health movement break in the form of beginner Tai-Chi led from home by Charlmane Wong. Charlmane is an instructor at Ji Hong Tai Chi & Qi Gong in Richmond Hill, Ontario.

Video: https://youtu.be/QEfn_dDxg-w
PDF Slides: EE & Radon
Radon Resources: Radon Resources

2021-2022
Date & Topic

Description Video & Notes
Nov 30, 2021:
Radon
In our first webinar of our new series, Pam Warkentin from the Canadian Association of Radon Scientists and Technologists (CARST) and Kelley Bush from Health Canada join us to discuss why and how you should test your home for radon, and what to do with the results. This 40-minute discussion was followed by a 20-minute mindfulness session facilitated by Theresa Meikle of Mindful Pathways.

Video: https://youtu.be/lzd1MVGd-lY
PDF Slides: Radon
Q&A: Radon Q&A
Radon Resources: Radon Resources

April 13, 2022:
Global Systems of Radiation Protection
Since the war in Ukraine began, there have been several incidents of concern regarding the safety of nuclear power plants in the country, including at Chornobyl. News stories have varied sources mentioning different organizations, many of which may be unfamiliar. This webinar speaks to radiation protection in the nuclear industry on a global level.
After an introductory presentation, Mike Haynes, Health Physicist and consultant with the Institute, answers questions about health physics, radiation protection in the nuclear industry, the global efforts to ensure safety, and how to find reliable sources of information as the story unfolds. He also takes questions from the participants. Mandel Fraser of PowerYoga West in Prince Edward Island leads us through yoga and meditation exercises for the wellness portion.

Video: https://youtu.be/s38moIfY17g
PDF Slides: Global Systems of Radiation Protection

April 28, 2022:
National Day of Mourning
The 3rd webinar in our Radiation Safety & Wellness Webinar series recognizes the National Day of Mourning on April 28, 2022. On this day we acknowledge and remember all workers who have been injured, become ill, or passed away as a result of their work.
The webinar includes a short presentation which gives an overview of the history of nuclear power and uranium mining at Elliott Lake. This is followed by an interview and Q&A with John Perquin, retired Assistant to the International Secretary-Treasurer, United Steelworkers and one of the members of the Board of the Institute. Mandel Fraser of PowerYoga West in Prince Edward Island leads the wellness session including yoga and meditation practices.

Video: https://youtu.be/nFCxa22MZ2Y
PDF Slides: National Day of Mourning

May 19, 2022:
Preparing for an X-Ray Inspection in a Health Care Setting
Our guest, Lothar Doehler, radiation protection consultant at RadiationProtectionGuy, has extensive radiation protection experience with both the Ministry of Health (MOH) and the Ministry of Labour, Training, and Skills Development (MLTSD) in Ontario. Lothar spoke to the expectations found within the HARP Act and Regulation 543 (Ontario) and discussed best practices in running an x-ray safety program and preparing for an inspection. While the requirements for an x-ray inspection vary by province, anyone interested in the topic can learn from someone who has worked at a senior level in this field. During the interview with Mr. Doehler, discussed topics such as facility organization, the role of the Radiation Protection Officer, worker credentials, and the powers of inspectors and answered questions from participants. Mandel Fraser of PowerYoga West in Prince Edward Island leads the 20-minute wellness break.

Video: https://youtu.be/wyK3VYeRvqM
PDF Slides: HARP Inspection
Q&A: Coming soon!

May 26, 2022:
Solar Radiation and Sun Safety at Work
To help outdoor workers prepare for increased exposure to sunlight in the coming months, we spoke with Dr. Cheryl Peters, PhD, about occupational exposures to solar radiation. One of her many roles is as the principal investigator at CAREX Canada, a multidisciplinary team of researchers with expertise in Canadians’ exposures to known and suspected carcinogens. Cheryl informed us about outdoor workers’ increased risk of exposure to solar radiation, the largest industrial groups exposed, level of exposure and the impact of these exposures, occupational exposure limits for solar radiation in Canada and internationally, as well as best practices for employees and workplaces to lower the associated cancer risk that comes from working outdoors. She also gave information about CAREX Canada, their research focus, and resources available for the public, workers, and employers. Our 20-minute wellness break was led by Mandel Fraser of PowerYoga West in PEI.

Video: https://youtu.be/Kr25j8WBGts
PDF Slides: Solar Radiation

June 9, 2022:
Transportation of Nuclear Materials
Our guest, Brian Bjorndal, is the Director of RSIC’s Fergal Nolan National Laboratories. He has a M.Sc. in Nuclear Physics from the University of Saskatchewan and over 20 years of experience in radiation safety and occupational health and safety in industry, academia and research. The webinar begins with a short presentation on the terminology, jurisdiction, and regulatory structure for transporting this dangerous good category. It then moves to the interview Brian, which includes the steps to prepare a package for transport, required documents, and placards. There is also information about what needs to be done in case of an accident. Mr. Bjorndal answers questions from the participants following the interview. The wellness yoga and meditation break is led by Mandel Fraser of PowerYoga West in Prince Edward Island.

Video: https://youtu.be/TntPetZ8Xwg
PDF Slides: Transportation of Nuclear Materials

June 14, 2022:
Survey Instrument Calibration
The webinar begins with a short presentation on the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission requirements for instrument calibration. The main content in the webinar is a online tour of RSIC’s calibration laboratory featuring a Cs137 source, with participants asking questions of Brian Bjorndal MSc PPhys, Director of the Fergal Nolan National Laboratories, and Octavian Mavrichi MSc, Radiation Scientist. As part of our Radiation Protection and Wellness Webinar Series (https://radiationsafety.ca/services/webinars/), The final 20 minutes of the hour-long webinar is 20-minute wellness break led by Mandel Fraser of PowerYoga West in Prince Edward Island.

Video: https://youtu.be/cfX9h4LiE_I
PDF Slides: Survey Meter Calibration

June 29, 2022:
Preparaing for an X-Ray Inspection in an Industrial Setting
Our guest, Lothar Doehler, radiation protection consultant at RadiationProtectionGuy, has extensive radiation protection experience with both the Ministry of Health (MOH) and the Ministry of Labour, Training, and Skills Development (MLTSD) in Ontario. Lothar speaks to the expectations found within Regulation 861: X-Ray Safety for those in industry and discussed best practices in running an x-ray safety program and preparing for an inspection. As part of our Radiation Protection and Wellness Webinar series, we conclude with a 20-minute wellness break with Mandel Fraser of PowerYoga West in Prince Edward Island.

Video: https://youtu.be/xU0FZ10WxFc
PDF Slides: Industrial X-Ray Inspection
Q&A: Being prepared

Lunch, Learn, and Dance Wellness Webinars

Taking a whole-body view to wellness, we developed a series of 15 webinars which were presented from February until June, 2021. Each webinar included a half-hour long information session in a topic pertaining to radiation safety and a half-hour dance session to get us moving. Below are links to recordings of the information session portion of the webinars along with supporting materials.

Date Topic Description Link to Video & Notes
Feb
4
Understanding Radiation In our first webinar, we give an overview of matters concerning radiation and radiation safety for workers and other members of the public. Video: https://youtu.be/O592tGWXt98
PDF Slides: Understanding Radiation
Q&A: Understanding Radiation Q&A
Feb
11
Radiation Awareness for Health Care Workers In this session, we introduce some fundamental concepts of radiation safety as it applies to a health care setting. Video: https://youtu.be/6gIAna5wpmI
PDF Slides: Radiation Awareness for Health Care Workers
Feb
18
Uses of Radiation Radiation is used in many different ways. Discover where you might encounter radiation in the workplace and the community based on industry and type of radiation. Video: https://youtu.be/tUPgaHlMMgU
PDF Slides: Uses of Radiation
Feb
25
Health Effects of Exposure to Radiation What are the health effects of being exposed to radiation, and how is this determined? Join this webinar to find out. Video: https://youtu.be/qI6qGF9eapE
PDF Slides: Health Effects of Exposure to Radiation
Q&A: Health Effects of Exposure to Radiation Q&A
Mar
4
Radiation Safety in the Operating Room This webinar provides an overview of sources of radiation, health effects of radiation, radiation protection principles, radiation safety, and dosimetry as it applies to the operating room setting. Video: https://youtu.be/QWUJ7BR6Up4
PDF Slides: Radiation Safety in the Operating Room
Q&A: Operating Room Q&A
Mar
11
PPE and Dosimetry Learn how PPE and dosimetry are used to protect workers from exposure to radiation in the workplace. Video: https://youtu.be/r4FxgMe9tbg
PDF Slides: PPE and Dosimetry
Mar
18
Mathematics Review Brush up on the mathematics skills related to half-lives, shielding, and cancer risk. Topics include exponents, logarithmic functions, and probability. Video: https://youtu.be/OKwkq2TEHOE
PDF Slides: Mathematics Review
Apr
1
Regulatory Bodies and International Agencies Who ensures that radioactive sources and x-ray machines are used safely in the workplace? This webinar will cover agencies in Canada and around the world responsible for radiation safety, their particular responsibilities, and the resources they provide. Video: https://youtu.be/v4j3zQq9nTQ
PDF Slides: Regulatory Bodies and International Agencies
Apr
8
EMF & Wifi Learn about EMF and Wifi: what they are, sources, health effects, and exposure guidelines. Video: https://youtu.be/ZIXPObLn59I
PDF Slides: EMF and WiFi
Q&A: EMF and WiFi Q&A
Apr
22
Radon We are all exposed to radiation daily. Radon is an odourless, colourless, radioactive gas which can build up inside buildings. Learn what it is, how it is detected, and how to mitigate for it. Video: https://youtu.be/dBx_teeE7Yo
PDF Slides: Radon
Q&A: Radon Q&A
May
6
Laser Safety The webinar will explain how light and lasers work, the health hazards associated with using lasers, and the principles of laser safety. Video: https://youtu.be/lLzkdF9SYnY
PDF Slides: Laser Safety
Q&A: Laser Safety Q&A
May
13
Radiation Safety Issues in PET/CT This webinar gives an overview of what PET/CT is, the types of ionizing radiation used in PET/CT, doses, and radiation safety concerns. It includes a number of resources for PET/CT safety, including the http://canadasafeimaging.ca/ initiative. Video: https://youtu.be/DRdYU8ic6lQ
PDF Slides: Radiation Safety Issues in PET/CT
References & Resources: PET/CT R&R
Q&A: PET-CT Q&A
May
27
NORM Awareness Learn about naturally occurring radioactive materials (NORM) and the Canadian NORM guidelines. Video: https://youtu.be/FaPnYysQV8Y
PDF Slides: NORM Awareness
Jun
10
Mining – All About Airborne Hazards This webinar covers aspects of radon, diesel, and silica awareness for workers in the mining industry. Video: https://youtu.be/2KzcmzBsJrA
PDF Slides: Mining – All About Airborne Hazards
References and Resources: Mining Airborne Hazards R&R
Q&A: Mining Airborne Hazards Q&A
Jun
17
Ultraviolet This session will explain what ultraviolet light is, what it can be used for, and health concerns due to exposure to UV light. Video: https://youtu.be/GDYXBF29ShY
PDF Slides: Ultraviolet
References and Resources: Ultraviolet R&R

Find the recordings of past webinars here:

Date Description
May 26, 2017 Foundations of an X-Ray Safety Program for Industrial X-Ray Users
Jun 21, 2017 Introduction to Radon for High Water Use Facilities
Jun 29, 2017 Safety in Fluoroscopy for Staff and Patients
Jul 13, 2017 Radiation Safety in the Workplace
Aug 9, 2017 Foundation of a Radiation Safety Program (Nuclear)