About radiation control

Control of radiation in NSW is governed according to the following legislation:

• Radiation Control Act 1990
• Radiation Control Regulation 2003

Object of the Radiation Control Act

The object of this Act is to secure the protection of persons and the environment from exposure to harmful ionising and non-ionising radiation to the maximum extent that is reasonably practicable, taking into account social and economic factors and recognising the need for the use of radiation for beneficial purposes.

Functions of the Hazardous Materials & Radiation Section

The Hazardous Materials and Radiation Section of the DECCW is responsible for administering the Radiation Control Act 1990 and the Radiation Control Regulation 2003. It also provides administrative support to the Radiation Advisory Council. Areas of the Hazardous Materials and Radiation Section's responsibility include:

• Licensing
  • Licensing of persons to use radioactive substances and ionising radiation apparatus
  • Licensing of persons to sell and/or possess radioactive substances and ionising radiation apparatus
• Registration of apparatus - fixed radiation gauges and diagnostic imaging apparatus and cyclotrons
• Enforcement
• Radiation accidents
  • Maintenance of a 24-hour emergency response service
  • Investigation of radiation incidents
• Policy development
  • Provision of policy advice to the Government, the Minister, and the EPA
  • Development of policies, guidelines and amendments to the Act and Regulations
  • Development of conditions of licences, accreditation and registration
  • Liaison with universities and professional associations to develop appropriate training courses
  • Provision of community education and advice for industry
  • Participation in committees developing national policy and codes of practice.

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