The Medical Physics Expert

The MPE has a similar role under lR(ME)R(18) as the RPA has under IRR(17).

The RPA is concerned with minimising the exposure to ionising radiation of staff and members of the public whereas the MPE is concerned with the justification and optimisation of the exposure to ionising radiation of the patient. The MPE willl be involved, as appropriate, for consultation and advice on matters relating to radiation protection.

The MPE has responsibilities including:-

• Physical measurements for evaluation of the dose delivered to the patient (and other individuals subject to medical exposure).
• Advice on medical radiological equipment.

Contribution in particular to the followlng:-

• Advice on the optimisation of the radiation dose to patients and other individuals subjected to medical exposure, including the application and use of diagnostic reference levels.
• Advise on the quality assurance of medical radiological equipment.
• The preparation of technical specifications for medical radiological equipment and installation design.
• The surveillance of medical radiological installations.
• The analysis of events involving, or potentially involving, accidental or unintended medical exposures.
• The selection of equipment required to perform radiation protection measurements.
• The training of practitioners and other staff in relevant aspects of radiation protection