HIQA regulatory notice in relation to COVID-19 for undertakings providing medical exposure to ionising radiation

Date of publication:

The Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) is continuing to review the evolving COVID-19 situation. Our priority remains the safety and wellbeing of people using services. In light of the announcement by Government yesterday, we have reviewed the regulatory process in relation to undertakings that provide medical exposure to ionising radiation and are implementing a number of changes with immediate effect.

All routine inspections of undertakings have been cancelled until further notice. However, we will continue to respond to issues of risk, which, in some instances may require an inspection. Our inspectors will adhere to public health advice and take the necessary precautions during these inspections. We will phone the undertaking in advance of the inspection, and ask for your continued cooperation during these inspections. 

While inspections have been temporarily suspended, HIQA will continue to monitor regulatory compliance. The statutory requirement to submit significant events of accidental and unintended exposure, should they occur within your facility, is not affected and should continue to be submitted. Inspectors will continue to review and risk rate all information and follow up with undertakings and designated managers as required.

Undertakings providing medical exposure to ionising radiation have been contacted by HIQA with further information in relation to this decision.  

Further information:
Clare O’Byrne, Acting Media and Stakeholder Relations Manager, HIQA
(01) 8286712 / 085 8030846, cobyrne@hiqa.ie