Ionising Radiation Medicals
Work with ionising radiation (IR) falls under the Ionising Radiation Regs 2017 (IRR17) and the relevant Approved Code of Practice L121. Classification and monitoring of IR workers is covered by Reg 21, whilst Reg 25 covers specific aspects of medical surveillance.
As a classified radiation worker under IRR17, your employer has a duty to ensure that you are placed under ‘statutory medical surveillance’ by an ‘appointed doctor’ at least annually.
What is the purpose of Ionising Radiation Medicals?
The purpose of statutory medical surveillance is to monitor for early signs of potential health problems caused by the work you are doing, and to provide appropriate advice regarding further exposure to IR. The appointed doctor will advise of any emerging issues so that a review of your risk assessment can be undertaken to ensure that risks to your health remain properly controlled.
What is involved in an Ionising Radiation medical?
During your medical, the appointed doctor will want to know about the following:
- The nature of your work with IR, including work situations and locations, and the source(s) of IR you are exposed to (including whether they are sealed or unsealed)
- Your physical and temperamental suitability to work with IR
- Your past medical history, relevant to your work with IR
- Your past occupational history, including exposure to other hazards to your health
- You may also be required to undergo a medical examination, with or without any appropriate investigations at the doctor’s discretion.
Under certain circumstances it may be possible to conduct some IRR17 medicals remotely. This should be discussed at the time of booking your appointment. Remote appointments are not offered for initial medicals.
On the day of the medical
- You will be required to provide the doctor with a copy of all relevant dosimetery reports since your last medical.
- Wear appropriate clothing to facilitate any necessary clinical examination if attending a face-to-face appointment.
Please see details regarding our chaperone policy if required.
Chaperones are available by prior arrangement. If you would like a chaperone for your medical examination, please indicate this when you book your appointment.