In laboratories using ionizing radiations, a clearly defined chain of responsibility has to be established with the employer accepting the responsibility for the provision of services and equipment for the implementation of radiation-protection procedures under whatever legal or administrative procedures are valid for the country in question.

The radiation safety officer (RSO) is responsible for the controlled areas within a given establishment. He (or she) is responsible to his employer for the implementation of a radiation-protection programme. His duties will vary according to the legislation and administrative arrangements applicable to his institution but will include, inter alia:

In English common law, the employer is responsible for the actions of his employees but this does not absolve personnel from a duty of care to their fellows. Ultimately, the responsibility for radiation protection lies with the worker concerned. He (or she) should:

Two classes of people are envisaged:

In Table 10.1.2, the maximum primary dose (MPD) for those in class (i) and class (ii) is tabulated. SI units are shown in bold type, and the earlier units are shown in parentheses in light type.

Planned special exposures are permissible in emergency circumstances provided that in any single exposure twice the annual dose limit is not exceeded, and in a lifetime five times the limit.

Also, to allow for the different biological effectiveness of different types of radiation, the quality factor listed in Table 10.1.3 is applied to determine the dose.