The Legislature finds that the citizens of this State are entitled to the maximum protection practicable from the harmful effects of excessive and improper exposure to ionizing radiation; that the protection can be increased by requiring appropriate education and training of persons operating medical and dental equipment emitting ionizing radiation; and that it is therefore necessary to establish standards of education, training and experience for these operators, to provide for the appropriate examination and licensure and to emphasize the professional nature of the service. [PL 1983, c. 524 (NEW).]