In what situation must a Radiation Safety Officer (RSO) notify the NRC immediately?

The need for immediate notification to the NRC arises specifically in the event of a radiation-related incident. This situation encompasses any occurrences that could pose a risk to health and safety, such as significant spills of radioactive material, unplanned exposures to radiation, or any situation that could result in the release of radioactive substances into the environment. The NRC emphasizes the importance of prompt communication in these circumstances to mitigate risks, assess potential consequences, and coordinate appropriate responses.

Routine monitoring does not necessitate immediate notification since it involves standard procedures to track radiation levels and ensure compliance with safety regulations. Receiving new radioactive materials and conducting annual safety audits are also planned events that follow established protocols and timelines, thus not requiring urgent notifications. In these non-emergency situations, while the management of radioactive materials and annual assessments are critical, they do not constitute immediate threats that would mandate urgent communication to regulatory bodies like the NRC.