Health and Safety Executive (HSE) carries out a targeted inspection campaign to assess compliance with the Ionising Radiations Regulations 2017 (IRR17).
This focused programme is specifically aimed at chiropractors who use radiation generators as part of their clinical practice. If you fall into this category, now is the time to ensure your arrangements are robust, documented, and inspection-ready.
You can watch the below HSE’s short inspection video, which explains what to expect from a visit and the key areas of compliance inspectors will assess.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nFAEVeOT8jQ
Why Are Chiropractors Being Inspected?
Radiation generators, including X-ray equipment, present well-established risks if not properly controlled. HSE’s role is to ensure that employers are managing these risks effectively to protect:
- Patients
- Employees
- Members of the public
The current campaign reflects HSE’s increasing focus on smaller healthcare providers, where compliance gaps can sometimes arise due to limited internal radiation protection expertise.
Registration with HSE: A Legal Requirement
Under IRR17, all employers with staff operating radiation generators must be registered with HSE. This is done through the online RADAN system.
If your practice has not yet completed this registration, you may already be non-compliant. Registration is not optional—it is a fundamental legal requirement and one of the first things an inspector is likely to check.
What Will HSE Inspectors Be Looking For?
To help duty holders prepare, HSE has produced a short inspection overview video explaining:
- What happens during an inspection visit
- The documents inspectors expect to see
- The key areas of compliance they will assess
- Although inspections may vary slightly, they typically focus on:
- Risk assessments under IRR17
- Local rules and written procedures
- Training and competence of staff
- Equipment safety, maintenance, and quality assurance
- Arrangements for restricting exposure (including dose optimisation)
- Evidence of appropriate radiation protection advice
- Watching the video and reviewing your arrangements against these themes is an excellent starting point.
Preparing for an Inspection
Good compliance is not about paperwork for its own sake—it’s about demonstrating that radiation risks are understood, controlled, and reviewed. Practical steps include:
- Confirming RADAN registration is complete and up to date
- Reviewing risk assessments and local rules
- Ensuring staff training records are current
- Checking equipment servicing and QA documentation
- Making sure radiation protection advice is clearly documented
- If documents exist but are outdated or inconsistent with practice, that’s a common inspection finding, so alignment is key.
Final Thoughts
HSE inspections don’t need to be daunting. With the right preparation and a clear understanding of IRR17 requirements, most chiropractic practices can demonstrate compliance confidently.
If you use radiation generators and haven’t reviewed your arrangements recently, this inspection campaign is a timely reminder to do so. Being proactive now can save significant time, stress, and potential enforcement action later.
If you need support with radiation protection compliance, including the appointment of a Radiation Protection Adviser or help preparing for inspection, please contact us for clear, expert advice.
Email: info@radorris.com
Phone: +44 121 517 2066