The Radiation Protection Adviser (RPA) is a certificated expert, or group body, whose role is to provide advice and support to organisations engaged in work with ionising radiation. Their primary role is to assist the employer to develop and implement safe working procedures to safeguard both employees and the public from the potential risks associated with ionising radiation. The role of the RPA is defined in Regulation 14 (1) and Schedule 4 of the Ionising Radiations Regulations (IRR17).
The Ionising Radiations Regulations 2017
The Ionising Radiations Regulations 2017 comprise a framework of regulations concerned with the protection against exposure to ionising radiation as a consequence of work-related activities in the UK.
Enforced by the HSE, IRR17 relates to all uses of ionising radiations in the workplace and sets out the minimum legal duties of the employer. It is catch all legislation, and therefore everyone working with ionising radiation must comply.
Appointing an RPA
In accordance with IRR17, Regulation 14, any employer engaged in the use of ionising radiation must appoint a suitable Radiation Protection Adviser. This appointment is a mandatory written appointment and the RPA:
- must be suitable
- must hold the correct certification
- is usually an external appointment
To be suitable, an RPA must possess the relevant knowledge, experience and competence necessary to provide advice tailored to the specific working conditions for which the employer is seeking their expertise. This ensures that the guidance offered is both suitable and appropriate.
It is a legal requirement for an RPA to hold a Certificate of Competence awarded by an HSE approved Assessing Body, such as RPA 2000. A list of Radiation Protection Certificate holders, under the various schemes operated by RPA 2000 can be found on their website: Lists of Certificate Holders – RPA 2000
RPA Group Body Status – legal entities can apply to the HSE to be recognised as an RPA Body, demonstrating the requirements in paragraph 14 of the HSE Statement on Radiation Protection Advisers is satisfied.
The employer must appoint the RPA in writing in order to formalise the contract between the RPA and the employer, agreeing the scope of advice.
Scope of Advice
Where relevant, the advice of the RPA should cover, but is not limited to:
- Plans for new installations and bringing units into commission in relation to engineering controls, design features, safety features and warning devices
- HSE notification, registration and consent for work with ionising radiation
- Designation of areas
- Restriction of exposure and keeping does as low as reasonably practicable (ALARP)
- Radiation risk assessments
- Local rules and safe systems of work
- Personal Protection Equipment (PPE)
- Contingency plans
- Classification of workers
- Monitoring and personal dosimetry
- Employment conditions for pregnant or breastfeeding employees
- Quality assurance
- Training
- Dose assessments and investigations
- Arrangements for the control and accountancy of radioactive substances
SGA – Experts in Radiation Safety
SGA was recognised as an ‘RPA Body’ by the HSE in 2021, having satisfied the strict criteria of competence. We are an established provider of specialised advice in the areas of:
- Radiation protection
- Radioactive waste management
- Medical physics for users of ionising radiation
- Laser protection
- Dosimetry services
- Radiation protection training
We currently provide radiation protection services to clients in a range of sectors including:
- Chiropractic
- Dental
- Engineering
- Food
- Medical
- Non-Destructive Testing
- Pharmaceutical
- Research
- Transport
- Veterinary
We offer a tailored, responsive and approachable service, delivering expert advice to support employers in achieving compliance with the legislation pertinent to their sector.
As part of our appointment as an RPA we conduct a comprehensive site visit, including confirming designation of controlled areas and sufficiency of shielding through measured dose rate survey and output testing of x-ray units (including leakage tests). Following all site visits we produce a comprehensive report detailing areas to be addressed for improved legal compliance.
See our website for more information on our services: SGA Website
