What is the Practical Reference Dosimetry Course?
ARPANSA runs the Practical Reference Dosimetry Course for external beam radiotherapy.
The course covers theory and practice in all areas of radiation dosimetry for external beams.
The next course will be held in March 2027. Course dates and registration will be published in 2026.
Who is the course for?
The course is for those seeking a refresher course and Continuing Professional Development points, who are:
- experienced ROMPs (Radiation Oncology Medical Physicists)
- registrars
- qualified medical physicists.
The course concentrates on TRS-398 Revision 1 and TG-61.
How many Continuing Professional Development (CDP) points are covered?
The course is approved for 40 CPD points.
How is the course delivered?
The hands-on course runs for 4 days and delves into the physics behind the protocols, consisting of:
- lectures by ARPANSA staff
- lectures by senior hospital physicists
- eight practical sessions
- a formal assessment at the end of each day.
A certificate is presented on successful completion.
What does the course cover?
At the end of the course, students will:
- have a good fundamental theoretical and practical understanding of all aspects of reference dosimetry (for kV X-rays, high-energy photons, and electrons)
- be familiar with the Australian primary standards for air kerma and absorbed dose to water (used in reference dosimetry, their units and uncertainties)
- understand the ACPSEM-recommended codes of practice for kV X-rays, MV photons and electrons - as well as their practical application to clinical beams
- understand correction factors and be able to calculate uncertainties in reference dosimetry.
Topics include:
- quantities and units
- uncertainty calculations and reporting uncertainties
- dosimetry protocols for kV and MV photons and MV MeV electrons (TRS-398 Revision 1, TG-61)
- measuring beam quality index, output, and output factors
- primary standards
- legal metrology and regulatory framework
- understanding your equipment
- ion chamber theory
- small field dosimetry.
How often is the course held?
This course is usually held on an annual basis during March or April.
How do you enrol?
Contact psdl@arpansa.gov.au for more information.
