Appointment of Radiation Protection Adviser (RPA)

A key requirement of the Ionising Radiations Regulations 2017 (IRR17) is consultation with an RPA. Dental trade companies who work with X-ray equipment are required to appoint and consult an RPA. The appointed RPA will always be an external consultant. It is very unlikely that anyone in the company will be qualified to act as an RPA so appointment of an external consultant to fulfil the role is usual.

The RPA provides you with advice on practical radiation protection as well as legislative compliance. The law requires you to address a number of issues, such as carrying out a risk assessment, ensuring the suitability of the workplace, ensuring adequate supervision of the work etc and you would expect your RPA to provide you with advice and assistance on such matters.

Critical Examinations

When you install, relocate or modify an X-ray set you are required to carry out a critical examination in consultation with an RPA. The RPA will advise on the nature and extent of the tests and the results.