Editor’s Message, August 2021

Our second pandemic summer—are you ready?

Here we are, well into our second summer of “the virus that shall not be named.” Perhaps the Harry Potter reference is out of date? (My kids still bug me about my Hagrid impersonation!) Or, perhaps it’s more accurate to call it “the virus that is named far too often.”

COVID-19 has dominated every facet of our lives for over 16 months now. CRPA has had to hold two annual general meetings virtually, cancel our annual conference for a second time, extend the qualification period for CRPA(R) certified members, and adapt to the “new normal.” It’s wearing a little thin for everyone!

Well, there appears to be light at the end of the tunnel! In Canada, COVID-19 restrictions are easing. Workplaces are starting to open up, staff are working on site more than remotely in many parts of the country, and activity is on the increase. Vaccine uptake is increasing and we’re seeing the resulting benefits of folks “getting the jab.” It even looks like travel will open up for the summer. Quite a change from the last few months.

What does all of this have to do with radiation protection? Well, for those of you who have been working remotely, are you ready to come back on site? Do you have procedures you need to dust off and review, equipment to refamiliarize yourself with, training you need to retake, or new hazards to assess? Did you hire new staff in the past 18 months who are even unfamiliar with “normal” work routines? What do you need to know to ensure everyone in your workplace can return to work safely? As radiation protection professionals, we need to be sure the radiation protection program is ready for the increase in on-site activity.

Now, then, what do we think the fall will look like when cold and flu season hits us?

This summer issue of the Bulletin includes a full slate of articles for you to read while relaxing in the heatwave. Enjoy the summer, everyone!