If a regulatory agency needs to be notified, who makes that decision?

In the context of nuclear gauge testing, the Responsible Safety Officer (RSO) plays a critical role in ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory standards. The RSO is designated by the organization to oversee the safe use of radioactive materials, including nuclear gauges. If an incident occurs that requires notification to a regulatory agency, the RSO is typically the person responsible for making that decision. This responsibility is rooted in their training and authority to assess the situation and evaluate whether the regulatory guidelines necessitate reporting.

The RSO is fundamentally responsible for ensuring that all operations are in compliance with local, state, and federal regulations, thus positioned to make informed choices about necessary notifications. This can include incidents such as accidents, leaks, or other safety concerns that could impact regulatory compliance.

In contrast, other individuals, such as the driver/operator or a bystander, may not have the necessary authority, training, or responsibility to make such decisions. While the driver/operator is involved in the gauge's operation, the RSO's role includes overseeing protocols and making key regulatory decisions. Bystanders, meanwhile, typically lack any formal role or authority in managing or responding to nuclear gauge operations. Thus, it is the RSO who acts as the designated individual to notify regulatory agencies when required