Operators of radiation apparatus
Obtaining a licence
Any person operating an ionising radiation apparatus must be appropriately licensed. Note that operating an apparatus includes setting or adjusting exposure parameters or energising the X-ray tube.
To be eligible for a licence, applicants must either possess the qualifications as prescribed in regulation 58 of the Radiation Protection and Control (Ionising Radiation) Regulations 2015 or possess the appropriate knowledge of the principles and practices of radiation protection relevant to the intended use of the licence.
To apply for a licence, applicants should submit an application for a licence to operate ionising radiation apparatus.
Licence prerequisites for operators of diagnostic X-ray apparatus
In the case of persons operating diagnostic X-ray apparatus, the prerequisites required for each profession are detailed in the licence prerequisites for operators of diagnostic X-ray apparatus.
Licence conditions
Licences will typically have at least 1 condition (collectively referred to as a schedule) placed on a licence. A licence schedule details the scope of the licence and in some cases the restrictions placed on the licensee. Licensees should note schedules can vary between individuals even from within the same profession. Operators must ensure that the specific conditions are adhered to.
Personal radiation monitoring
A personal radiation monitoring device (PRMD) is a radiation sensor designed to measure, over a specified period of time, the radiation dose received by a person who is occupationally exposed to radiation. If you are occupationally exposed to radiation you must wear a PRMD unless you or your workplace have been specifically granted an exemption under section 44 of the Radiation Protection and Control Act 1982.
There is an exemption in place for radiation workers that only operate plain dental X-ray apparatus.
There are also some other exemptions for specific employers, persons, or classes of persons. Radiation workers who are unsure if they are required to wear a PRMD should confirm with their employer, or contact the Radiation Protection Branch for advice.