What is Radiation Protection Safety?

Regulation 17(4) of the Ionising Radiations Regulations, 1999 (IRR99), requires an employer undertaking work with ionising radiations to appoint one or more of his employees as Radiation Protection Supervisor. An RPS should supervise work, so that any work carried out follows the requirements of the regulations. The RPS should also take all reasonable steps to ensure that relevant local rules are observed

All appointed RPSs names must appear in the local rules giving the areas they will supervise. It is also good practice to confirm the appointment to the individuals in writing so that there is no confusion about the work expected of them. RPSs should also be provided with sufficient information about their role.

What is the role of an Radiation Protection Supervisor?

At the working level the RPS has direct responsibility to the employer for ensuring that:

• The work with ionising radiations is carried out in accordance with the requirements of the IRR99, and the local rules are observed.
• To achieve the above the RPS will be required to:
• Liaise with both management and the RPA
• Supervise the radiological protection aspects of the work, and
• Recognise the need to seek further advice in certain situations.