asked the Minister for Health if X-ray plant is used to any appreciable extent in trade or industrial processes; and, if so, whether he is satisfied, in view of recent conclusions about the grave dangers of such radiation, that its continued use except under the most stringent control should be no longer permitted.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Use of X-Ray Plant in Industrial Processes.
17.
I understand that a small number of industrial firms use irradiating apparatus. Their use does not involve any danger to operatives when the proper precautions are taken. I have received expert advice to the effect that the industrial uses of irradiating apparatus and radio-active isotopes in use in this country are, in general, safe. This is due, however, not to any inherent safety in the processes but to the fact that the firms concerned have generally been at pains to take the precautions which are necessary and, in some cases, to consult the expert staff in St. Luke's Hospital regarding the precautions which should be taken. The major radio-active source, that used by an engineering firm, is apparently used in a safe manner because the firm concerned has been advised by and has adopted the practices recommended by the Atomic Energy Research Establishment at Harwell.
While I have no evidence that these precautions are not observed in all cases where this apparatus is used now, I am, in view of the possible extension of the use of such apparatus, considering what statutory regulations may be desirable to govern such use.