Using radiation in Australia

Using radiation in Australia

In Australia the use of radiation is regulated by various government bodies in accordance with internationally accepted principles of safety, protection and security.

For medical radiation practitioners the use and management of radiation is an essential and integral part of practice. For any one patient there are a number of practice considerations that will be impacted by the safe use of ionising radiation.

The Professional capabilities for medical radiation practice describe the minimum capabilities for practice in the profession. Practitioners must understand and apply the Board’s requirements for managing the radiation protection, safety of patients, colleagues, the public and the environment.

Medical radiation practitioners must also understand and apply the Code of Conduct (in particular Appendix A) which describes the elements of good medical radiation practice.

Internationally

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), part of the United Nations, and which Australia is a member state, works with governments around the world in establishing radiation and nuclear safety and security arrangements with the aim of protecting people and the environment from the harmful effects of ionising radiation.

The IAEA has published a number of documents the provide guidance in relation to the use of ionising radiation in healthcare. For more information visit IAEA’s Radiation Protection of Patients website.

Commonwealth

The Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA) is the Australian Government’s lead agency with responsibility for protecting the health and safety of people, and the environment, from the harmful effects of radiation (ionising and non-ionising). ARPANSA is also responsible for the development and implementation of conventions, codes and standards relating to radiation and nuclear safety.

ARPANSA has a range of guidelines that assist practitioners to understand their obligations in relation to protecting patients, colleagues and the general public from the risks of ionising radiation.

States and Territories

To use radiation in the provision of health services most States and Territories require that practitioners hold a radiation use license.

If you intend on using radiation in your practice you must enquire with the local State or Territory authority about their requirements for licensing (details below).