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RPII INAB Award

26/02/09

Minister Michael Kitt congratulates the Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland on becoming the first regulatory body in Europe to be accredited for its radiation protection inspection services

The Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland (RPII) today, 26th February 2009, became the first regulatory authority in Europe engaged in radiation protection inspections to receive the certificate of accreditation under ISO 17020. The award was presented by Mr James Stapleton of the Irish National Accreditation Board (INAB) to Dr Ann Mc Garry, CEO, of the RPII, at the RPII Headquarters, Clonskeagh, Co Dublin.

The RPII is the national organisation with regulatory, monitoring and advisory responsibilities in matters pertaining to ionising radiation. In particular the RPII concerns itself with hazards to health associated with ionising radiation and with radioactive contamination in the environment.

Speaking at the award ceremony, Mr Michael Kitt TD, Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, said: “It is fundamental to the safety and security of people in Ireland that the use of ionising radiation is properly regulated. The achievement of this award has demonstrated the RPII’s commitment to ensuring the highest standards. In Europe, Ireland is leading in this regard, not following.”

Ionising radiation plays an important and beneficial role in modern society. However, the misuse of ionising radiation can cause serious injury or even death. As such it must be controlled and used in a safe and secure manner. This is best achieved through effective regulation and inspection.
The accreditation by INAB certifies that the RPII operates to the highest standards in carrying out its inspections, including inspection planning, follow-up and review, as part of an overall quality system that is subject to international peer review.

Minister Kitt added: “Sources of ionising radiation are used under licence throughout the country in a diverse range of beneficial applications that are essential in any modern country. These include diagnostic and therapeutic medicine, research and development, industrial quality control and production processes.  By ensuring through its rigorous inspection activities that the highest safety standards are met the RPII supports Ireland’s international scientific reputation, which is essential in the further development of a knowledge-based economy. Today’s award will further enhance that reputation.”


ENDS


Note to editors:

· INAB is the national body with responsibility for the accreditation of laboratories, certification bodies and inspection bodies.

· INAB accredits Inspection Bodies to the standard ISO 17020 whose functions include the examination of materials, products, installations, plant, processes, work procedures or services and the determination of their conformity with requirements including the subsequent reporting of the results of these activities.

· Accreditation is often required to demonstrate conformance with the requirements of laws, official regulations and EU Directives. Accreditation can act as a catalyst to raise standards and institute improved work practices.


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