Notes from the Editor

Now that the bedding in period for the new RP News format has passed, I am pleased to report that the increase in subscribers to the e-bulletin has far exceeded expectations, with the numbers of you now signed up and receiving RP News having tripled since July 2008. As word spreads, so does awareness so this is goods news for the management of radiation protection in my view. Thank you to those of you who have emailed me with your comments and suggestions and even more thanks to those who have provided such favourable feedback on the changes made to RP News of late! The range of topics covered since re-launch has been diverse, so I am fairly confident that you will have found items of particular relevance to your work or interests. However if you have a contribution to make on a topic, and you anticipate this will be of value to the readership, please don't hesitate to contact me.   

In this issue there are substantive offerings from HSE's Radiation Team on some recent investigation experience and a reminder of REPPIR requirements. Policy colleagues provide information on how to get involved with participating in development of the UK influencing strategy and negotiating position with regard to EC proposal to recast the BSS and other directives, and the UK Safeguards Office which is now part of HSE provides a steer on Nuclear Safeguards Reporting for the UK's ‘Small users'. There are also just a couple of bits and pieces besides.

I hope what follows is of use as we plough our way through 2009!

Lindsey Cairns
Radiation Specialist Inspector
rpnewseditor@hse.gsi.gov.uk