All radioactive sources and x-ray equipment are legally controlled by the Department of Health, Directorate Radiation Control in terms of the Hazardous Substances Act, 1973 (Act 15 of 1973). In terms of the Regulations (No. R.247 of 26 February 1993) relating to radioactive material, it is mandatory that technical surveys (audits) be performed regularly in order to ensure the reliability and safety of equipment, premises and interlocks. It is therefore of the utmost importance that a thorough radiation safety audit be performed regularly in order to protect the employer, employee, as well as members of the public and to ensure that institutions comply with all legal requirements regarding radiation safety.
Radiation safety audits are provided in co-operation and consultation with the Directorate Radiation Control of the Department of Health, as well as the national accreditation body, COHSASA. The radiation safety audit has been drawn up in line with the requirements of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and covers aspects such as:
- Organisational and administrative procedures
- Incident and accident investigations
- Safe working procedures (we assist in the compilation hereof)
- Orientation and training (initial and refresher)
- Radiation safety instrumentation
- Radiation emergencies and preparedness
- Disposal of radiation sources
- Verification of safety
- Leak tests
- Warning systems
- Verification of worker protection
- Storage requirements
- Inventory of sources
- Annual returns to the Department of Health
- Renewal of authorities
A report will be compiled following the audit, a copy of which will be submitted to the Directorate Radiation Control, outlining the findings of the audit.
Radiation accidents do happen. Should a radiation occurrence take place, the employer is to a large extent covered if proof of regular audits by experts in this field can be provided.
The purpose of the audit is to ensure that radiation safety programs are in line with regulatory requirements.