GUWAHATI, Sept 25 - A team of the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) conducted a regulatory inspection of various medical establishments in Tinsukia town recently and sealed one such facility, a press release received here stated. Eight other units in four facilities were also pulled up for violation of norms.
It may be mentioned that activities concerning establishment and utilisation of nuclear facilities and use of radioactive sources are to be carried out in accordance with the provisions of the Atomic Energy Act, 1962. In pursuance of the objective of ensuring safety of the members of the public and occupational workers as well as protection of environment, Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) has been entrusted with the responsibility of framing rules and regulations and implementation of the same. Further, the objective of AERB in the field of medical application of radiation is to protect patients, workers and public from any undue radiation hazard and ensure safe operation of the medical equipment emanating X-rays. There are a large number of diagnostic X-ray machines installed and operated all over the country. Many such equipment are operated without complying to regulatory requirements.
The AERB made many efforts by means of advertisements, awareness programmes, inspections, formation of Directorate of Radiation Safety at the State level etc. But, it was observed that many X-ray facilities are still not coming forward to get their facilities registered /licensed by AERB. Registering of the facilities with AERB and obtaining license is mandatory. For ensuring radiation safety of medical practitioners, operators and patients, it is necessary to obtain the licence of AERB for operation of medical diagnostic X-ray equipment.
Unauthorised use of these is an offence under the Atomic Energy (Radiation Protection) Rules. 2004. In view of the above, AERB from time to time carries out Special Regulatory Inspections and enforcement actions against those facilities which are violating the rules The above action was carried out in pursuance of these objectives, the release added.
It may be noted that AERB is now issuing e-license free of cost to all its stakeholders. Any utility can log on to its website www.aerb.gov.in and explore the licensing procedure by clicking e-LORA menu. All the instructions and guidelines are available on the website.
