Ionising radiation is widely used in South Africa for medical and industrial applications. It is produced by either electronic generators or radioactive materials:
- Electronic generators of ionising radiation include X-ray equipment, linear accelerators, cyclotrons and particle generators. These are used for medical, industrial, research and security applications, among others.
- Radioactive materials (radioactive sources) are also widely used in medicine, industry and research, among others.
Radiation Control regulates all activities involving electronic generators of ionising radiation as well as radioactive sources used outside the nuclear fuel cycle. The aim is to protect patients, radiation workers, the public and the environment against over-exposure to ionising radiation, without limiting its beneficial use.
Radiation Control receives its regulatory mandate through the Hazardous Substances Act (15 of 1973) (the Act), which classifies electronic generators of ionising radiation as Group III hazardous substances, and radioactive sources as Group IV hazardous substances.
- Section 3 of the Act controls the sale, letting, use, operation, application, and installation of Group III substances. These are further regulated by Regulation R1332 of 1973.
- Section 3A of the Act controls the production, acquisition, disposal, importation, exportation, possession, use and conveyance of Group IV substances. These are further regulated by Regulations R246 and Regulation R247 of 1993.
Device control is mandated by the Schedule for Listed Electronic Products Regulation R1302 of 1991.
Application forms, codes of practice, guidelines and other useful documents related to Radiation Control can be downloaded via these links: