HSE is consulting on changes to the Ionising Radiation Regulations 1999 (IRR1999), the majority of which are brought in by the implementation of the EU Basic Safety Standards Directive (BSSD).  Consultation began on 7 February 2017 and ends on 2 April 2017.

Briefly the main changes are:

1. Dose Limit for exposure to the lens of the eye and implementation of the Directive – the Directive introduces a reduction of equivalent dose from 150 mSv to 20 mSv in a year. Currently exposure to ionising radiation is calculated and assessed on a calendar year basis, this would require individual dose limits to be re-calculated for the remainder of the year. HSE propose to transpose the BSSD early, on 1st January 2018, to avoid confusion and any additional cost burden to businesses.
2. Graded Approach - introduction of a new three tiered risk-based system of regulatory control. The Directive refers to these levels as notification, registration, and licensing -  the higher the radiation protection risk associated with the work, the greater the requirements. It requires HSE to have in place a positive system of authorisation whereby permission is granted to dutyholders for higher risk activities through registration and licensing.

The other new key requirements that stakeholders will have to consider are explained in the Consultative Document.  This document also includes a draft of the new regulations.

SRP will be responding and welcomes comments from members.  Please email admin@srp-uk.org by 15th March 2017.