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Dept of Health

Answer

Dr. Fox: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what radiological protection, with specific reference to protective coverings, is required when using new scanners; and whether the cost of protective items is covered by the funds set aside for extra CT and MRI scanners. [84015] Ms Blears: The following regulations, standards and guidelines are designed to ensure that all aspects of safety, including radiation protection issues, are addressed whenever diagnostic medical equipment is installed in the United Kingdom. For general safety issues, all equipment must be CE-marked in accordance with the requirements of the Medical Devices Regulations, 2002, S.I. 2002, no. 618, which are derived from the Medical Devices Directive, 93/42/EEC. In addition medical electrical equipment should meet the British and European standards, such as the General Requirements for Safety, BSEN 60601. The Ionising Radiations Regulations 1999 (IRR99) provide radiation protection to workers and the public and are enforced by the Health and Safety Executive. Department of Health regulations concerning radiation protection for patients are the Ionising Radiation (Medical Exposure) Regulations 2000 [IR(ME)R 2000]. To ensure that imaging equipment is installed in suitable accommodation, NHS Estates publish guidelines that describe issue that should be considered. References to the relevant publications are provided below. Consultations regarding the allocation of extra computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging scanners are under way with strategic health authorities and local healthcare commissioners. These discussions will ensure that adequate funding is in place to allow the safe installation of all new equipment. References: Facilities for Diagnostic Imaging and Interventional Radiology, NHS Estates, London, HMSO. ISBN 0-11-322000-0 Health Building Note 6 Supplement 1. Accommodation for magnetic resonance imaging. NHS Estates 1994, London, HMSO. ISBN 0113217307 Health Guidance Note Magnetic Resonance Imaging. NHS Estates, London, HMSO. ISBN 0113220510

Secondary information

Type

Written question

Reference

84015; 395 c774W;395 c771-2W

Session

2002-03

Subjects

Finance Health hazards Medical treatments Protection Radiation exposure Medical equipment Standards Regulation Radiology Tomography Magnetic resonance imagers

Link

View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk