Until 3 August 1973, when regulations concerning the control of electronic products was promulgated in terms of the Hazardous Substances Act (Act 15 of 1973), electronic products capable of emitting ionizing radiation have been freely available to the public and could be used by anybody on any premises. These regulations forbid the use of any electronic product generating X-rays or other ionizing beams, electrons, neutrons or other particle radiation, unless such equipment and premises are licensed. In terms of these regulations powers were granted to the Director-General of National Health to perform inspections at x-ray facilities. The objective of these regulations are to ensure that the patient, the operator and general public are only exposed to ionizing radiation if such procedure is justified, optimized and the individual dose minimized. For almost 15 years the licensing and inspection of facilities have formed the backbone of radiation control in South Africa. This type of licensing procedure has its limitations, and consequently the Hazardous Substances Act (Act 15 of 1973) was amended to make provision for regulations to be compiled that would include the control over sale. These regulations were published in the Government Gazette of 14 April 1989. To ensure effective control, licensing and inspections are based on internationally recognized standards, which are amended for local conditions.
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AIM |
To provide an appropriate standard of protection to all South African citizens against ionising radiation without unduly limiting the beneficial practices giving rise to radiation exposure. |
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VISION |
To establish a comprehensive quality and safety culture amongst users of electronic products producing ionising radiation with special emphasis on medical applications |
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FUNCTIONS |
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