Radiation practice licence in Estonia

摘要

In Estonia first radiation practice licenses were given out in 1997 after Parliament accepted first Radiation Act. Radiation practice license is needed in order to have a right to do radiation practice, which is defined according to Radiation Act as any activity, which increase or may increase the exposure of humans to radiation emanating from an artificial source or from a natural radiation source in cases where natural radionuclides are processed in view of their radioactive, fissile or fertile properties. During these 10 years the concept of licence, as well as licensing system have changed remarkably. In first years radiation practice licence was just one page document. Today it is several pages long document, which also includes special requirements. From 1997 until 2004 all licencing procedures were fullfilled by Estonian Radiation Protection Centre. In 2004 a new Radiation Act came into force in order to fullfil the European Union requirements. This Act introduced changed licencing system, where Ministry of the Environment is responsible for issuing the licence. This paper will give the overview of the developments in Estonia and tries also to explain the reasons for changes. Several solutions used in the process will be discussed as well. At present preparation of national development plan for radiation protection is in the final stage. This document covers 4 different areas, including the infrastructure. The future aim is to provide easily understandable system of radiation protection, includin licensing for all sides. International co-operation, especially with neighbouring countries was important factor in the development of the licencing procedure. This factor will be adressed too.