WP 3 How to assess implementation of ALARA - who is in charge of the optimisation process who is in charge of the implementation (different people at different level) - who is in charge of the assessment of implementation In making an assessment of whether ALARA is achieved we need to recognise that a proper balancing of all risks has to play a role (for both, regulator and operator). Prioritisation of resources requires characterisation of areas (what are doses, risks, installation of new equipment….), some may not be regulated well (Radon problem).

On the regulatory level Objective: On the regulatory level Objective: All optimisation requirements of the radiation protection regulations are implemented How is the objective achieved: Regulator states what is expected, can be done in the regulation or during licensing process (request of a set of documents, such as …), ask for proof, - put ALARA requirements in licenses (for example, make reference to specific guidance documents to be followed) - provide guidance on ALARA implementation - monitor dose trends, take appropriate action - foster safety culture - provide framework for education and training How is the implementation assessed (assessment only of those issues for which a framework has been set by the regulator): - compliance checks during inspections (check values, …), problem of qualification/competence of inspectors, ALARA awareness - call a qualified expert for consultation - requirements for different areas may vary depending on risk level PI: Degree to which the objective has been reached  

On the operational level (plant, company, hospital…) Objective: The optimisation requirements in the regulations/license are implemented How is the objective reached: - establishment and implementation of site specific ALARA Programme/culture (system of allocation of responsibilities, knowledge and skills, QM, dose profiles, how to deal with extra doses ….) - set constraints, reference levels, target values, benchmarks …. - Competence of personnel, - Regular and systematic review of procedures - Analysis of the effectiveness of specific procedures, results and consequences How is the implementation assessed: - regular review of the implementation status (internal by self-assessment, e.g. performance indicators as set in the radiation protection programme, external - assessment, assessment together with inspectors). check compliance with constraints, reference levels, reference values, etc. PI: Degree to which the objective has been reached

Recommendations WP 3 Recommendation 1 - Terminology Its time for a change in terminology: avoid the term constraints, better call it dose planning value or reference value in order to better reflect the precautionary idea of ALARA (implementation of ALARA as a precautionary action).

Recommendations WP 3 Recommendation 2 - Regulatory inspections Ensure that compliance with the ALARA requirements is an integral part of regulatory inspections. The extent of inspections should be proportionate to the risk. This would involve looking at - management issues related to ALARA (commitment, communication and cooperation between management, staff and contractors..) - dose profiles, local rules, assessment of options to reduce doses, quality assurance programme - radiation protection competence (E+T with focus on ALARA) - self assessment - experience feedback

Recommendations WP 3 Recommendation 3 - Allocation of resources To make sure that the allocation of resources corresponds with the level of risk or the level of exposure, the competent authority should ensure that - they have sufficient information to characterise the various practices and exposure routes. - the availability of information to those responsible for measures to reduce exposure, and - the degree to which such measures are implemented. It is noted that the areas of NORM (particularly Radon in the workplace) and the rapid development and use of new medical techniques, provide challenges that may warrant the allocation of additional resources.

Recommendations WP 3 Recommendation 4 - Competence An important point of the assessment of ALARA implementation is the competency of personnel. At all levels, personnel need to be ALARA aware and understand the optimisation principle as it affects their work. The regulator, in cooperation with the stakeholders, sets the framework to ensure that ALARA is part of the radiation protection education and training.