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57
On the question of exposure of the foetus during diagnostic radiology,
the report reads "until the uncertainty is dispelled, it seems wise to reduce
radiography examinations of the pregnant woman's abdomen and pelvis
to the lowest practicable level."
In spite of the rapid and improved advances in certain aspects of
human genetics, the Committee have not altered their views expressed in
the original report about the genetic effects of radiation.
About the radiological hazards to patients, the Committee referred
to the report of the Adrian Committee, and on the risks from radiological
waste to the report of the Radioactive Substances Advisory Committee
which set up a panel to review the sources of radioactive waste and to
advise on the methods of disposal and the nature of controls required.
Their recommendations were given effect to in the Radioactive Substances
Act, 1960. The main provisions of this Act are :—
S.l. Users of radioactive materials must register with the Minister
of Housing and Local Government.
S.3. Registration of mobile radioactive apparatus by the Minister.
S.6,7 Disposal of and accumulation of radioactive waste prohibited
except under an authorisation by the Minister of Housing and
Local Government and the Minister of Agriculture and Food.
Before granting such authorisation the Ministers shall consult
such local authorities etc. as appear proper to be consulted.
Local authorities in whose areas radioactive waste is disposed
of or accumulated will be furnished with a copy of the certificate
of authorisation issued.
S.20 Provision of waste disposal facilities by the Minister if adequate
facilities are not available for the safe disposal or accumulation
of radioactive waste.
The proposals of a panel of the Radioactive Substances Advisory
Committee to consider controlling the use of shoe-fitting fluoroscopes
were published as "Home Office Requirements for the Control of Shoefitting
fluoroscopes." These require that all machines should conform to
a standard specification regarding radiation levels by 1963, and should be
regularly tested, and that the customers' attention should be drawn to the
danger of repeated exposures. These requirements have been accepted on
behalf of the manufacturers and the trade.
About luminous markings in clocks and watches, the report says
"insufficient data are at present available to enable us to express an
opinion on luminizing compounds, but we feel that the use in clocks and
watches of any radioactive substances which contribute to the tissue dose
should be kept to the lowest practicable level."
About television sets the report says "although the number of television
sets in use has increased greatly since 1956, we are confident that
the dose to viewers from sets at present in use is negligible."