HC Deb 30 June 1988 vol 136 cc350-1W
Mrs. Mahon

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Services what guidelines exist for monitoring and maintaining X-ray equipment; and how his Department ensures that guidelines are being adhered to.

Mrs. Currie

Relevant guidance is given in various DHSS publications, of which the most noteworthy areHealth Equipment Information No. 98 (1982—reissued 1984) on Management of Equipment. STB6A/84/19 Maintenance of Radiological Equipment in NHS Establishments by Equipment Suppliers and other Commercial Agencies (1984).

Responsibility for proper management of X-ray and other equipment rests with regional and district health authorities. Professional staff from the Department's procurement directorate and medical division maintain regular liaison with appropriate senior professional staff in regional health authorities as a result of which informal guidance is given on specific maintenance issues from time to time. X-ray equipment requirements are constantly under review, for example, as shown by the initiative taken in 1987 to meet the special needs of the mammography screening programme.

Mrs. Mahon

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Services what is the age of X-ray equipment currently being used by Calderdale health authority; and if he will give details of monitoring and maintenance programmes operating on X-ray equipment in Calderdale.

Mrs. Currie

Monitoring and maintenance of medical equipment in particular NHS locations, including X-ray equipment, is a matter for the local health authority. The hon. Member may therefore wish to contact the chairman of Calderdale health authority for the information she is seeking.