Ionising radiation at work
Radiation with sufficient energy to ionise atoms, including alpha, beta, gamma, X-rays and neutrons. Workers exposed to ionising radiation are subject to specific dose limit requirements and monitoring obligations.
Local equivalents exist but use different names or numerical thresholds. Do not apply one jurisdiction's values in another.
Also known as
By jurisdiction
UK HSE
“ionising radiation”Exact equivalentThe Ionising Radiations Regulations 2017 (SI 2017/1075) implement EU Directive 2013/59/Euratom in GB (as retained law). The regulations set dose limits for classified and supervised workers, require designation of controlled and supervised areas, mandate radiation monitoring and health surveillance, and require competent radiation protection advisers.
Irish HSA
“ionising radiation”Close equivalentThe Radiological Protection Act 1991 and the European Communities (Radiological Protection) Regulations implement EU Directive 2013/59/Euratom in Ireland. The Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland (RPII, now part of HIQA) regulates radiation protection. Dose limits and monitoring requirements are set in Irish regulations.
US OSHA
“ionising radiation”Close equivalentOSHA 29 CFR 1910.1096 regulates ionising radiation in general industry, setting permissible dose limits and requirements for radiation protection programs. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) regulates sources of ionising radiation in certain industries; OSHA and NRC have overlapping but distinct jurisdictions.
Practitioner note: Dose limits apply per worker per year and require formal monitoring. Classified persons carry additional dose assessment and health surveillance obligations.