Identify all sources of ionising and non-ionising radiation in your workplace and the risks they pose. Once you have identified the significant risks, you must control them.
Try and reduce any exposure to ionising and UV radiation as far as possible. For example, you may be able to use safer alternative processes or equipment such as ultrasonic, non-destructive testing instead of x-rays.
You should:
- before working with ionising radiation, depending on the level of risk for the work you do, notify, register or apply to HSENI for consent
- make sure you are aware of the different potential sources of radiation in your workplace, particularly all sources of ionising radiations, UV light and high-power lasers
- consider getting competent advice from a radiation protection adviser (RPA); this is a legal requirement when working with ionising radiations - names and contact details of RPAs
- consider whether staff should be subject to medical surveillance – an RPA will help with this
- consider radon gas exposure as part of your risk assessment - this is naturally occurring and may be present in your workplace even if you do not do any other work with radiation
- ensure appropriate shielding and personal protective equipment is used to reduce exposure when working with ionising radiation and to protect the skin and eyes when working with hazardous sources of infra-red (for example, molten metal) and UV (for example, welding)
- seek expert advice where lasers are used for displays (for example, in bars, nightclubs and stage shows) and there could be a risk to the public
Do not:
- override any interlocks preventing access to:
- high-voltage electrical equipment
- x-ray cabinets
- laser enclosures or machinery containing lasers
- use potentially harmful germicidal UV lamps as replacements in otherwise safe insect-killing devices or other fluorescent light fittings - make sure you replace these with the correct type specified by the manufacturer
Radiation emergency: ionising radiations
If your work with ionising radiations could produce a radiation emergency (such as an event that could lead to a member of the public receiving a dose of ionising radiation above certain levels) the Radiation (Emergency Preparedness and Public Information) Regulations 2019 may apply.
Employers must manage the risks of ionising radiation sensibly to protect workers and the public.