Managing radioactive substances

Radioactive materials are used in some industries, including the medical industry and some manufacturing activities.

There are legal controls on keeping and using radioactive materials and accumulating and disposing of radioactive waste. These aim to protect people and the environment from the harmful effects of radiation.

If your business keeps or uses radioactive material, or accumulates or disposes of radioactive waste, you must have a certificate of registration or authorisation or be covered by an exemption. You must comply with the conditions in your certificate of registration or authorisation as they control the impact your activities have on the environment and human health.

This guide is intended for users of radioactive substances on non-nuclear sites. It is not intended for radioactive waste disposal sites, underground storage or disposal facilities, or nuclear licensed sites (such as nuclear power stations). It outlines what radioactive substances are, how to apply for a certificate of registration or authorisation and what you must do to comply with your certificate of registration or authorisation.