New CLEAPSS Guidance: Radiation Protection in School Science: Guidance for Employers
Recently issued CLEAPPS guidance, intended for school employers, e.g. local authorities; multi-academy trusts; independent, foundation and voluntary-aided schools; academies not in a multi-academy trust; and incorporated colleges.
Low-level radioactive sources are used in many secondary school and college science departments to teach parts of the National Curriculum in science and A-level physics. CLEAPSS endorse the use of these sources to provide effective and exciting learning. Although the sources are low-level, they come within the Ionising Radiations Regulations 2017. The regulations require the employer to ensure that radioactive substances are accounted for, stored properly, handled safely and monitored regularly. The employer must provide employees with appropriate information and instruction in radiation protection to ensure their health and safety.
This is not a new duty. From the first Ionising Radiations Regulations back in 1985, the employer had a duty to consult, and if necessary appoint, a Radiation Protection Adviser (RPA). The HSE has confirmed that the type of work carried out with radioactive substances in school science means that the school employer must, in nearly all cases, appoint (in writing) an RPA.
What's in the Guidance?
The guidance covers what the responsibilities of an RPA are and who to appoint to ensure that all your radioactive sources are fully compliant. It touches on what qualifications are required and provides a list of RPAs.
HSE Inspections
Where schools use radioactive materials as part of their learning activities, they are required to comply with the Ionising Radiations Regulations 2017 (IRR17) and seek registration from HSE.
To ensure that the risks to workers and students from radiation are managed effectively, from April 2022 HSE’s radiation team will be carrying out inspections in schools that hold registration for this type of work to review compliance with IRR17.
These inspections are currently ongoing and HSE are visiting schools to check on their handling of radioactive materials and have been issuing Intervention Notices.