Ionising Radiation

Ionising Radiation is the radiation emitted from radioactive substances or from radiation generators such as x-ray machines or accelerators. Ionising radiation can cause harm to critical biological molecules (for example DNA), by direct damage mechanisms or by indirect ionisation.

Because of the possibility of such harm occurring, all sources of ionising radiation are strictly controlled by law, and justification for use, and minimisation of use, must be demonstrated.

The Health and Safety Office have produced, in the University three books providing policy and guidance in respect of protection from ionising radiation. HSD007R sets out the policy of the University in this area, HSD010R provides guidance to users of unsealed radioactive substances, whilst HSD017R concentrates on guidance for users of radiation generating machines, and HSD066R concentrates on guidance for users of sealed sources. All these books are accessible from this page, and the 'Policy' book is also currently available in printed and bound format.

All work with ionising radiations must comply with the requirements of the Ionising Radiations Regulations 2017 (IRR17) and the associated approved code of practice, (ACoP) which are enforced by the Health and Safety Executive. The Regulations, ACoP and Guidance are published in book form, copies of which are available in all Departments where ionising radiations are used. Additionally, all work with radioactive substances and any work giving rise to radioactive waste is subject to the Environmental Permitting Regulations 2016 (EPR16). This is enforced by the Environment Agency and administered by a system of registration of premises where radioactive substances may be used, and authorisation for the accumulation and disposal of radioactive waste. Whilst IRR17 and EPR16 are the most important statutes in this area as far as University departments are concerned, there are other regulations that may apply in certain circumstances, including those for transport, movement and medical applications of ionising radiations.