Radiation exists everywhere in society. Natural radiation emanates from the Earth, the Sun and from outer space. Radiation is also created through human activities: radiation is used in medicine to detect and treat various illnesses.
Nuclear power plants contain fuel that gives rise to radiation. Mobile phones, mobile phone base stations, solariums, power lines and certain industrial equipment emit radiation – the list is long.
We are striving for a society safe from the effects of radiation through measures designed to increase safety and limit the risks of radiation.
Nuclear Power
Nuclear power provides part of this country’s electricity supply. We supervise that this enterprise is conducted in a safe manner by issuing regulations as well as following up on and checking nuclear safety related activities. We check that radioactive substances and nuclear technology equipment do not fall into the wrong hands. We also ensure that personnel and the environment are exposed to as little radiation as possible.
Medical Exposures
Different forms of radiation are used to examine and treat patients, for example, during X-ray examinations and in cancer therapy. We regulate how radiation should be applied and check that these regulations are complied with in order to protect patients, personnel and the general public.
Research and Industry, as well as Commercial Products and Services
Radiation is used in research and industry, for example in laboratories and workshops. Measurement equipment with radioactive sources, smoke detectors, solariums, laser pointers and electronic article surveillance systems are examples of products that incorporate the use of radiation. For such products, we issue regulations and guidelines. Additionally, we set requirements for those responsible so that the application is safe with regards to radiation.
Natural Radiation
Radiation exists everywhere in our environment. It is our task to provide information about risks as well as on measures for reducing harmful effects of natural radiation. Examples of natural radiation are radiation from the Sun, from radon and from outer space.
Radioactive Waste
The operation of nuclear power plants gives rise to radioactive waste and spent fuel that must be properly managed and disposed of. Radioactive waste also arises from other types of industries, from medical departments and from research. Naturally radioactive materials may also need to be treated as waste. We require that the waste is managed in a safe manner with regards to radiation.
We also contribute to the development of radiation safety internationally by participating in collaborative efforts both within the EU and globally.