The Environment Protection Authority (EPA) regulates the use of radiation in dental surgeries in NSW. This information sheet provides an overview of the regulatory requirements which are outlined in the Protection from Harmful Radiation Regulation 2025.
Radiation Management Licence
A Radiation Management Licence (RML) is required for premises in NSW that own, store and operate X-Ray units. The licensee must comply with the obligations of ’responsible persons‘ as they apply to: EPA Radiation Standard 6
Radiation Regulated Material (RRM)
Every X-ray unit requires a Radiation Regulated Material (RRM) ID Number that identifies that particular piece of equipment for its lifetime.
It is the responsibility of the practice/licensee to list every piece of equipment with a RRM ID Number on the RML.
X-ray equipment must undergo certification and compliance testing by an accredited Consulting Radiation Expert (CRE):
- At installation
- Every 5 years
- After tube head replacement
- After relocation
Signage
Premises that house X-ray equipment must display correct radiation warning signage in the immediate vicinity of imaging/controlled areas.
Radiation User Licence
Registered dental practitioners (dentists, oral health therapists, dental therapists and hygienists) do not require a user license to take intraoral radiography, OPGs or Cephalometric radiographs. Dental practitioners and dental assistants require an IA24 licence when using CBCT apparatus.
Dental Assistants
Dental assistants with a Certificate IV (Dental Radiography) can take radiographs without needing a Radiation User License. They must have completed an EPA-approved course of training, be under supervision, and comply with ARPANSA Dental Code requirements.
Additional Information:
More detailed information can be found on the EPA website: https://www.epa.nsw.gov.au/your-environment/radiation/managing-radiation-nsw
ARPANSA Code of Practice for Radiation Protection in Dentistry: https://www.arpansa.gov.au/sites/default/files/legacy/pubs/rps/rps10.pdf
Environmental Protection Authority Radiation Standard 6: https://www.epa.nsw.gov.au/sites/default/files/24p4504-standard-6-part-3-dentistry.pdf
If you require more information, please do not hesitate to email Advisory Services at advisory@adansw.com.au or call 8436 9944.