Sam Mitchell

IRPA 2026: Deeside HTSL Calibration Laboratory Welcomes International Delegates

As radiation protection standards continue to evolve globally, collaboration and knowledge-sharing remain at the heart of industry progress. We recently had the distinct pleasure of hosting an exclusive, behind-the-scenes site visit to our UKAS Accredited calibrations laboratory located in Deeside. The event took place as part of the 7th European International Radiation Protection Association (IRPA) Congress, bringing together leading minds and experts from across the radiation safety sector. Over 20 delegates took time out of their congress schedules to tour our state-of-the-art facility, explore our specialised calibration capabilities and engage with our technical experts. Exploring an Industry-Leading Calibration Facility The site visit offered our international guests a comprehensive, firsthand look at what goes into maintaining peak accuracy and compliance for radiation protection instrumentation. Divided into interactive sessions, the tour walked delegates through the entire lifecycle of calibration inside our facility: A Truly Global Gathering Radiation protection is a global effort, and our visitor list certainly reflected that. We were incredibly proud to welcome guests travelling from all over the world, including: Having such a diverse group of international practitioners under one roof allowed for a fantastic exchange of ideas, comparing regional practices against international standards. Why UKAS Accreditation Matters in Radiation Protection For facilities handling radiation safety equipment, there is no room for error. A slight variance in an instrument’s reading can have major safety implications. Hosting events like the IRPA site visit gives us the platform to demonstrate why rigorous accreditation matters. Our Deeside laboratory operates under strict UKAS guidelines, ensuring that every piece of equipment we calibrate delivers traceably precise and legally defensible measurements.

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IRR17 Regulation 15: Your Guide to Radiation Training & Instruction

News / Sam Mitchell

Is your radiation safety training compliant with IRR17 Regulation 15? Learn the HSE expectations for refresher training intervals and the specific requirements for HASS users.

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How to Comply with Your Radioactive Substances Permit: A Guide to EPR’16

News / Sam Mitchell

If your business handles radioactive materials in England or Wales, your operations are governed by The Environmental Permitting (England and Wales) Regulations 2016 (EPR’16). Whether you hold a permit for sealed sources, open sources, or radioactive waste, the Environment Agency (EA) requires strict adherence to specific conditions. Understanding how these permits are structured—and how to demonstrate compliance—is essential for any Radiation Protection Supervisor (RPS) or manager. Navigating Environment Agency Guidance The EA provides tailored guidance depending on the nature of your radioactive practice. It is vital to consult the document specific to your permit type: For those operating in Scotland, while the framework differs slightly, SEPA provides a similar guide to compliance with standard conditions for radioactive substances. Anatomy of a Non-Nuclear Permit Most permits for the keeping and use of radioactive sources follow a standardized five-section structure. Understanding these sections helps you organize your evidence for inspections. Section 1: ManagementThis section focuses on your Written Management System. The EA looks for proof that you have: Sufficient competent persons (such as a Radioactive Waste Adviser). Adequate resources to maintain safety. A robust system to ensure full compliance with all permit conditions. Section 2: OperationsThis is often the most detailed part of the permit. it covers: Permitted Activities: Exactly what you are allowed to do (detailed in Schedule 1). The Site: The specific boundaries where radioactive work is authorized. Source Security & Integrity: How you prevent loss, theft, or damage. Source Lifecycle: Rules regarding the receipt, identification, transfer, and accumulation of sources. Section 3 & 4: Waste and InformationWaste Disposal: Conditions for the authorized disposal of radioactive waste (if applicable). Information & Records: Strict requirements for record-keeping, reporting, and mandatory notifications to the regulator. Summary of Core Requirements Regardless of your specific industry, permit compliance generally rests on five pillars: Expert Support for Your RSR Permit Navigating environmental permits can be daunting. HTSL Group offers expert Radiation Protection Services to take the guesswork out of compliance. Our team includes legally recognised Radioactive Waste Advisers (RWA) and Radiation Protection Advisers (RPA) who can help you draft management systems, conduct gap analyses, and prepare for regulator inspections. Ensure your site is fully compliant. Explore HTSL Group RPA & RWA Services For bespoke advice or to discuss your specific permit requirements, contact Nick Hutchinson at nick.hutchinson@htsl.co.uk.

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Understanding IRR17: Consent and the Safety Assessment Requirement

News / Sam Mitchell

If your business works with ionising radiation, staying compliant with The Ionising Radiations Regulations 2017 (IRR17) is non-negotiable. Under Regulation 7, specific high-risk practices require more than just notification—they require formal Consent from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) or the Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR). A critical part of this application is the Safety Assessment. Here is everything you need to know about the requirements and how to ensure your submission is successful. What is a “Specified Practice”? The requirement to submit a safety assessment applies only to “specified practices.” According to Regulation 7(1) of IRR17, these high-risk activities include: Note: If you perform more than one specified practice, you must apply for a separate consent for each individual activity. What is an IRR17 Safety Assessment? A safety assessment is a formal demonstration that your facility has identified risks and implemented controls. It isn’t a single document, but a package consisting of: The HSE Safety Assessment Template: A specific form tailored to your work practice. Local Rules: Your site-specific procedures for managing radiation. Contingency Plans: Formalized steps to be taken in the event of an accident or equipment failure. The Goal of the SubmissionThe HSE uses these documents to determine if your safety arrangements meet legal standards. For the employer, it is a vital exercise in proving that compliance with IRR17 is being actively maintained. How to Submit Your Safety Assessment The process differs depending on whether you are starting a new practice or updating an existing one. Retrospective Submissions: Are You at Risk? Since January 1st, 2018, consent has been a legal requirement. However, many employers hold “Consent” but have not yet submitted a formal Safety Assessment. The HSE and ONR are currently contacting these holders to request retrospective submissions. If you receive this request, it is vital to act quickly to ensure your legal authority to work with radiation remains valid. Expert Support with HTSL Group Navigating HSE applications can be complex. The technical requirements for contingency plans and safety templates often require expert oversight to avoid rejection or delays. HTSL Group provides industry-leading radiation protection compliance services. Our experienced team can act as your Radiation Protection Adviser (RPA) and Radioactive Waste Adviser (RWA), guiding you through the entire safety assessment process and providing bespoke training for your staff. Ensure your business stays compliant.Visit our RPA webpage

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Introducing HTSL Group’s Radiation Advisor Services: Expert RPA Support for Regulatory Compliance and Radiation Safety Excellence

News / Sam Mitchell

HTSL Group is proud to introduce its new Radiation Advisor services, delivering expert guidance and comprehensive support to organizations operating in radiation-sensitive environments. Designed to ensure full regulatory compliance, enhanced safety standards, and operational excellence, this service provides access to experienced radiation protection professionals who offer risk assessments, safety audits, training programs, and ongoing advisory support. With a strong commitment to protecting people, assets, and the environment, HTSL Group’s Radiation Advisor services empower clients to manage radiation risks confidently while maintaining the highest levels of safety and efficiency. What Is a Radiation Protection Advisor (RPA)? A Radiation Protection Advisor (RPA) is a certified specialist who provides expert advice to organisations working with ionising radiation. Under UK legislation — particularly the Ionising Radiations Regulations 2017 (IRR17) — many employers are legally required to consult and appoint a suitable Radiation Protection Advisor. An RPA ensures that radiation risks are properly assessed, controlled, monitored, and documented in accordance with national legislation and best practice.The Legal Framework: Why an RPA Is Essential Under IRR17, employers who undertake work involving ionising radiation must: Failure to comply can result in: HTSL Group’s Radiation Advisor services ensure your organisation meets these obligations with clarity and confidence. Why Your Organisation Needs a Radiation Protection Advisor Radiation regulations are complex and continuously evolving. An RPA ensures your organisation: This is particularly critical for organisations in healthcare, industrial radiography, manufacturing, research, nuclear, construction, and NDT sectors. Risk Reduction and Workforce Protection Ionising radiation presents serious health risks, including: A qualified Radiation Advisor helps you: Operational Efficiency and Confidence Compliance is not just about avoiding penalties — it’s about improving operational performance. A structured radiation protection strategy: Industries That May Require Radiation Protection Advisor Services Healthcare and Medical Imagine Hospitals, dental clinics, and veterinary practices using: Must comply with IRR17 and related medical exposure regulations. Industrial Radiography and Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) Organisations using sealed radioactive sources or X-ray generators require robust radiation management to prevent exposure incidents. Nuclear and Research Facilities Higher-risk environments demand advanced radiation safety strategies and specialist advisory expertise. Manufacturing and Engineering Industries using: Require appropriate radiation controls and documentation. The Consequences of Non-Compliance Failing to appoint or consult an RPA can lead to: Beyond regulatory penalties, radiation incidents can severely impact employee health and organisational reputation. HTSL Group helps mitigate these risks through structured, expert-led radiation protection management. Why Choose HTSL Group as Your Radiation Protection Advisor? Experienced Radiation Protection Professionals Our advisors bring extensive industry experience across multiple radiation-sensitive sectors. Practical, Proportionate Compliance We focus on delivering solutions that are: Integrated Safety Expertise As part of a broader safety and technical services portfolio, HTSL Group offers: Commitment to Safety and Environmental Protection Our mission is simple: Protect people.Protect assets.Protect the environment.

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