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Every day in the UK, a wide range of radiation types are used in industrial, medical, research and communications applications.

Some of these applications cause harmful exposure risks that must be effectively controlled. This section explains how those controls can be put in place.

Case study one


A scrap metal dealer bought a hand-held X-ray fluorescence analyser (sometimes called an XRF gun) to analyse the alloy content in scrap. These guns generate an intense beam of X-ray radiation at the front end of the equipment, and also result in a scattering of X-rays when they strike the test material.

When used properly, pointing away from all parts of the body, the radiation risks to operators and others will be minimal. However, if the equipment is damaged, incorrectly set up, or misused, there is the potential for exposure to high-radiation fields.

How the problem was tackled

The manager of the scrap yard consulted a radiation protection adviser (RPA), who helped the company carry out a risk assessment. This recommended that workers were trained in how to use the analyser safely and not to operate the gun without fully covering the X-ray aperture, or to hold the item being tested in their hand.

Users were also trained in what to do if the analyser was dropped or damaged. They were advised to buy an interlocked test box from the suppliers so they could test small parts safely. The RPA also agreed to measure the dose rates of the device in use to help the business meet its legal requirements.

By taking this action, the employer ensured that his workers and others were protected.

What are the main types of radiation?

Radiation is generally classed as either ‘ionising’ or ‘non-ionising’, with the former generally having more energy than the latter.

Ionising radiations

These include X-rays, gamma rays and particulate radiation (alpha, beta and neutron radiation) produced from X-ray sets or radioactive substances.

They are typically used in medical exposures, industrial radiography equipment and gauges used in industry for process control, but may also be produced from naturally occurring radioactive substances, including radon gas.

Case study two


After media reports claiming some homes were prone to radon, the manager of a local engineering firm was approached by a number of workers wanting assurances that they were not at risk while at work.

The manager used the Health Protection Agency’s website to confirm the premises were in a Radon Affected Area, and that many employees spent their working day in ground-floor rooms, where radon gas is more likely to accumulate.

How the problem was tackled

The manager used HSE’s guidance (see ‘Find out more’ below) to carry out a radon assessment, which included making measurements. The results showed very high levels (and possibly significant radiation doses) in two rooms.

He consulted a radiation protection adviser on how to reduce his employees’ exposures. Following this, he contacted a radon remediation specialist, who quickly installed a simple, underfloor sump/extract system to prevent the gas entering the premises.

Repeat measurements showed this was extremely effective in affording long-term protection, as the levels of radon were now very low.

Non-ionising radiations

These include:

The hazards

Ionising radiations can cause dermatitis, burns, cell damage, cataracts and changes to blood.

Microwaves and radio frequencies can cause heating of any exposed part of the body, infra-red rays can cause skin burns and cataracts and UV light can cause skin burns, skin cancer, conjunctivitis and arc eye. Lasers can cause permanent, severe damage to the eye and skin.

Exposure to ionising and UV radiation can damage DNA and can cause health effects, such as cancer, later in life. The risks are small for low levels of exposure but exposure to high levels of ionising and non-ionising radiations can cause acute effects such as burns, tissue and organ damage.

What do I have to do?

Identify all sources of ionising and non-ionising radiation in your workplace and the risks they pose. Once you have identified the significant risks, you must control them.

Try and reduce any exposure to ionising and UV radiation as far as possible. For example, you may be able to use safer alternative processes or equipment, eg ultrasonic, non-destructive testing instead of X-rays.

Dos and don’ts of radiation safety




If your work with ionising radiations could produce a radiation emergency (ie an event that could lead to a member of the public receiving a dose of ionising radiation above certain levels) the Radiation (Emergency Preparedness and Public Information) Regulations 2001 may apply. For more information, see our radiation site.

Businesses are required to manage general risks in the workplace – this includes sources of non-ionising radiation, such as electromagnetic fields (EMFs). HSE currently advises employers to use the recommendations of the International Commission on Non-Ionising Radiation Protection as the basis for assessing the risks arising from exposures to EMFs.

Find out more

The law

The Ionising Radiations Regulations 1999 apply to most work with ionising radiations, including exposure to naturally occurring radon gas.

The Control of Artificial Optical Radiation at Work Regulations 2010 require businesses with hazardous sources of bright light (eg lasers, welding processes) to ensure the eyes and skin of their workers are protected.

Updated 2013-01-03