HC Deb 05 June 1961 vol 641 cc56-7W
Mr. Prentice

asked the Minister of Labour on what date the Ionising Radiations (Sealed Sources) Regulations, 1961, will come into operation.

Mr. Hare

I hope to be able to make the Regulations in the course of the Summer. The main body of the Regulations will come into operation six months after they are made.

Mr. Prentice

asked the Minister of Labour what steps he is taking to recruit specialised officers to the factory inspectorate, or to train existing factory inspectors, to enforce the new Regulations dealing with ionising radiations.

Mr. Hare

A number of specialist inspectors are already available to advise on problems relating to the use of ionising radiations. Arrangements have been made for members of the General Inspectorate to attend special courses in radiological protection and so far ninety-four have attended these courses.

Mr. Prentice

asked the Minister of Labour what steps he is taking to promote the training of foremen, supervisors and shop stewards, in the industries concerned so that they will be familiar with the requirements of the new Regulations dealing with ionising radiations.

Mr. Hare

Factory occupiers will be responsible for ensuring that their staff are familiar with the requirements of the Regulations when made. The Regulations will require appropriate instruction to be given to persons exposed to ionising radiations about the hazards involved and the precautions to be observed. The Factory Inspectorate will give advice and information to occupiers as necessary.

Mr. Prentice

asked the Minister of Labour whether he is arranging courses of instruction for works doctors and sick bay staff in the relevant industries so that they will be familiar with the new Regulations dealing with ionising regulations.

Mr. Hare

Factory occupiers will be responsible for ensuring that their staff are familiar with the requirements of the Regulations when made. The Factory Inspectorate will give advice and information to occupiers as necessary but I do not propose to organise courses of instruction. Where works doctors are appointed by the chief inspector to carry out duties under the Regulations, they will receive a memorandum of guidance.

Mr. Prentice

asked the Minister of Labour when he expects to be ready to issue regulations on the protection of workers concerned with unsealed sources of ionising radiations.

Mr. Hare

A preliminary draft of such regulations was published in April and interested parties were asked to comment by 31st July. Further progress will depend on the extent of the consultations which may then be required.