2. What you need to do
Whether you need to notify HSE, or apply for registration or consent depends on the level of risk of the work you carry out. That is, the size and likelihood of exposure to ionising radiation.
Work with radiation generators
For work with radiation generators (such as X-ray devices) you must apply to HSE for a registration, unless it’s a high-risk work practice that requires consent.
More on work with radiation generators
Working in an atmosphere that contains radon
For work in an atmosphere containing radon above an annual average concentration of 300 Bq m-3 you must notify the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).
More on working in an atmosphere containing radon
Work with artificial or naturally occurring radionuclides
In the vast majority of cases you will need to apply for a registration for the following work, but in a few cases you may need to notify HSE:
- Work with artificial radionuclides or naturally occurring radionuclides (processed for their radioactive, fissile or fertile properties)
- Work with naturally occurring radionuclides (not processed for their radioactive, fissile or fertile properties)
To check, go to our guidance on work with ionising radiation that requires registration.
High-risk work practices
For high-risk work practices, you must apply to HSE for consent.
More about work that requires consent.
Work that does not require you to notify or apply to HSE
Work on nuclear premises
If you will be carrying out work with ionising radiation exclusively or primarily on nuclear premises, you do not need to notify, register or get consent from HSE. You must instead, notify or apply for registration or consent from the Office for Nuclear Regulation.
Work that is exempt
You do not need to notify, or apply to HSE for registration or consent, for work:
- with very small amounts or concentrations of radioactive substances
- with apparatus of a type approved by HSE
- involving the operation of some electrical devices
If you think this may include your work, check the exempt work listed under Schedule 1 of the approved code of practice and guidance for IRR17.