Industrial Radiography

New Regulations
On 1 January 2018 the ionizing Radiations Regulations 2017 (IRR17) replaced the Ionizing Radiations Regulations 1999 (IRR99).
The main concerns are that a significant number of non-destructive testing contractors fail to adopt routine working practices capable of keeping radiation exposures of employees as low as reasonably practicable: this is the main requirement of the Ionising Radiations Regulations 2017 (IRR17). Incidents occur because of poor job planning (most notably with site radiography); failure to use adequate local source shielding (collimation); or inadequate systems of work. Riddor Safety international is taking forward a number of initiatives aimed at improving this sectors performance at managing radiation protection.

Site radiography contractors must receive written notification of the radiography work from their client at least 7 days in advance of the work taking place. This is a condition of the radiography contractor's consent certificate (as required by Regulation 7 of IRR17). This period of time is deemed necessary to enable consultations between client and contractor to take place, to review risk assessments and to allow any necessary variations to be incorporated into the local rules. These processes must be built into the planning of the job. There is no requirement to notify HSE of site radiography work if this 7 day advance notification can be met.