HSE steps up inspections on x-ray and ionising radiation equipment

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has announced a targeted inspection programme focusing on the safe use of x-ray machines and other ionising radiation equipment across Great Britain. 

The campaign will focus predominantly on chiropractors where radiation is routinely used. But they could increase this to include veterinary practices, dental practices, private medical clinics and diagnostic services.
This list isn’t conclusive and if you use any x-ray or ionising radiation equipment you may receive a visit. 

Inspectors will be checking that employers are meeting their legal duties and adequately protecting staff, patients, and members of the public from unnecessary radiation exposure. 

Why are inspections happening? 

Ionising radiation is a well-known health hazard. Poorly controlled exposure can lead to: 

• Increased cancer risk 

• Skin and tissue damage 

• Harm to unborn children 

• Longterm cumulative health effects 

HSE inspections have repeatedly identified failings in risk assessment, training, local rules, and equipment maintenance, particularly in smaller practices where radiation safety is not always well understood. 

The campaign is intended to ensure radiation risks are accurately assessed, controlled, and managed, not treated as a paper exercise. 

What will inspectors look for? 

The HSE will look to see if you have a Radiation Protection Adviser (RPA), An RPA provides specialist advice to help organisations comply with radiation safety legislation, assess and control radiation risks, and implement safe systems of work, ensuring people are protected from unnecessary exposure and legal duties are met. They will help with the topics listed below. 

HSE inspectors will assess compliance with the Ionising Radiations Regulations 2017 (IRR17), including whether employers have: 

Suitable and sufficient risk assessments 

• Clear identification of radiation hazards 

• Assessment of staff, patient, and public exposure 

• Consideration of pregnant workers and young persons 

Effective control measures 

• Professionally designed and maintained shielding. 

• Restricted access to controlled areas 

• Clearly defined exposure times and safe working distances 

Local Rules and Radiation Protection supervision 

• Written Local Rules specific to the equipment in use. 

• Appointed Radiation Protection Supervisor (RPS) with adequate training. 

• Staff who understand and follow procedures. 

Training and competence 

• Radiation safety training appropriate to job roles 

• Evidence staff understand risks and control measures. 

• Refresher training where required. 

Equipment testing and maintenance. 

• Critical examinations and acceptance testing 

• Routine quality assurance and servicing 

• Defects reported and addressed promptly. 

Personal dosimetry (where required) 

• Use of dose badges for classified or at risk workers. 

• Dose records reviewed and acted upon 

The HSE is clear: these are legal requirements, not optional guidance. Failures may result in improvement notices, prohibition notices, or prosecution. 

Best practice for chiropractors, vets, and small clinics 

While exposure levels in these environments are often low, best practice is essential: 

• Keep radiation exposure As Low as Reasonably Practicable (ALARP) 

• Only trained and authorised staff operate Xray equipment. 

• Never hold animals or patients during exposure unless absolutely necessary and justified. 

• Use mechanical restraints and positioning aids where possible. 

• Ensure warning lights, signage and controlled areas are clearly marked. 

• Review risk assessments whenever equipment, layout or working practices change. 

Good radiation protection is not about bureaucracy — it’s about consistent, safe habits. 

What should businesses do now? 

If you operate or manage Xray or ionising radiation equipment, you should: 

• Review your IRR17 risk assessments. 

• Check Local Rules are current and understood. 

• Confirm your RPS appointment and competence. 

• Ensure staff training is up to date. 

• Verify maintenance, testing, and inspection records. 

• Keep clear documentation ready for inspection. 

• All employers with staff operating radiation generators must register with HSE through the online RADAN system. 

Being proactive reduces enforcement risk and protects both staff and patients.

If you have any questions about this topic get in touch on your free advice line via 0345 844 4848*.

 

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