Maharashtra yet to take first step towards radiation safety

Pic for representationa

With the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) signing an MoU with Andhra Pradesh towards formation of the Directorate of Radiation Safety (DRS) for medical diagnostic X-ray facilities last week, the total number of states in the country that run the unit reached six. However, another seven, which include Maharashtra (signed the agreement in 2013), have not yet initiated steps to obtain authorisation from AERB for radiation safety audits of medical diagnostic imaging centres, even though they have entered into the agreement.

Decentralising regulation
Speaking to mid-day, Dr A U Sonawane, AERB head, Directorate of Regulatory Affairs & Communications, said, "The main reason behind establishing the DRS is to decentralise the regulation of the diagnostic medical imaging test centres, which conduct X-rays, computed tomography (CT) scans, interventional radiology (IR) and dental X-rays. As the AERB lacks manpower, the DRS units set up across states are expected to play the role of watchdogs to ensure that such centres get themselves registered with AERB online and adhere to the radiation safety guidelines."

Sonawane further said that the concept of DRS was that once the unit is set up, its officials would be able to visit the test centres and conduct inspections. And if the centres were found violating safety norms, then DRS would have the power of derecognise them after consulting AERB. He added, "As per the MoU, the state government has to provide the required infrastructure and manpower. AERB would be the governing authority and provide all the required support to ensure that the centres adhere to safety standards."

No positive response
When asked the reason for delay in setting DRS units in seven states, Sonawane said, "We have written several letters to the health secretaries of all the seven states, including Maharashtra, but haven't received any positive response yet." He added, "Irrespective of the fact that AERB has limited resources and manpower, it conducts surprise inspections at diagnostic centers across states. Just a few months ago, X-ray units at two major civic hospitals in Mumbai were sealed for not adhering to the AERB safety norms. In all, the body has raided and sealed 168 such units across the country."

When contacted, Dr Sandeep Nyayanirgune, radiologist, said, "Small diagnostic centres that are set up in slum pockets lack even the basic lead protection provided in X-ray machines. It is extremely harmful for patients, mainly expecting mothers."

Good to be vigilant
Speaking on the issue, Dr Rajan Badwe, director, TATA Hospital, said, "It is always good to be more vigilant and have higher safety standards. And if AERB gets more helping hands through DRS it's always welcome." Even after repeated attempts to contact State Chief Secretary Sumeet Mallick, he was unavailable for comments.

53,000
Total no. of imaging machines that are registered with AERB

168
Total number of units that have been sealed by AERB

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