Radiation Safety Guide — Workplace Protection & Legal Compliance
Radiation is a serious workplace hazard that spans both ionising and non‑ionising types, impacting sectors such as manufacturing, healthcare, construction and utilities. This guide explains your legal duties, risk‑assessment requirements, safe working practices and control measures to keep employees and the public safe.
Understanding Radiation in the Workplace
Radiation comes in many forms. Ionising radiation (e.g., from X‑rays, radiography, sealed sources) can cause serious harm by altering atomic structure. Non‑ionising radiation (e.g., electromagnetic fields, lasers, optical radiation) also poses risks. Employers must understand which type applies and implement appropriate controls.
Legal Responsibilities & Notification Requirements
The legal framework for radiation in the UK requires employers and duty‑holders to identify, assess and control radiation risks. For ionising work, many operations require notification or consent by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). Documentation must be maintained, and the organisation must have a radiation protection adviser (RPA) if required.
Risk Assessment and Safe Working Practices
- Identify radiation sources, exposure levels and vulnerable persons.
- Apply the ALARP principle (As Low As Reasonably Practicable).
- Use engineering controls, administrative controls and PPE as required.
- Implement written procedures and training for all affected workers.
Control Measures for Ionising Radiation
Key control measures include limiting access zones, shielding, dose‑monitoring, periodic inspection and restricting exposure times. Operators must train staff in emergency actions, record doses and maintain equipment logs.
Control Measures for Non‑Ionising Radiation
Examples include lasers, high‑powered LEDs, handheld tools with optical or microwave outputs, and electromagnetic fields. Employers should conduct hazard mapping, set safe exposure limits, provide signage and training, and design work‑stations to avoid over‑exposure.
Training, Competence & Monitoring
Only competent persons should manage radiation systems and protective measures. Training should cover hazard identification, safe operation, regulatory compliance and emergency procedures. Regular monitoring, audits and reviews keep the radiation protection programme effective.
Emergency Response & Incident Reporting
In the event of a radiation incident, immediate actions include isolating the source, evacuating the area, informing the RPA/emergency contacts and reporting under Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 2013 (RIDDOR) if necessary. Post‑incident, conduct root‑cause analysis and update controls.
Most Relevant Training Courses
- Radiation Safety Awareness for Ionising Radiation
- Non‑Ionising Radiation & Electromagnetic Fields – Employer & Worker Training
- Radiation Protection Adviser (RPA) Refresher Training
- Radiography & Sealed Source Safety Course
- Laser, Optical Radiation & High‑Power LED Safety Course