UKHSA is the UK's primary authority on chemical, radiation and environmental hazards, carrying out research to advance the knowledge about protection and prevention from the risks they present.
UKHSA invests in discovering and developing prospects, to bring about the maximal impact possible from their work. We aim to facilitate the transfer of our distinctive knowledge and capability to industry, government and the public. The UKHSA is 'open for business' and can offer access to the world-class expertise, facilities and intellectual property assets.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is responsible for planning, preventing and responding to external health threats, and providing intellectual, scientific and operational leadership at national and local level, as well as on the global stage. UKHSA is an executive agency, sponsored by the Department of Health and Social Care.
As the UK's primary authority on radiation protection, UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) represents a significant nationwide resource for industry, education, research and medicine.
Specific functions of UKHSA are to carry out research to advance knowledge about protection from the risks of radiation; to provide laboratory and technical services; to run training courses; to provide expert information; and to fulfil a significant advisory role to regulators, government, the public and others.
In 2003 the Health and Safety Executive recognised UKHSA (then HPA) as the UK's first Radiation Protection Adviser Body which was reaffirmed in 2008. UKHSA is now recognised by HSE as an RPA body under IRR17. Our expertise is also acknowledged worldwide with contributions to international bodies such as the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
UKHSA has been delivering high quality radiation protection training for over 40 years. We train over 2,000 students each year through our centres at Chilton, Leeds and Glasgow. We run courses to raise awareness of radiation hazards and of legal obligations, as well as a wide range of courses providing practical radiation protection for the widest possible audience.
Audiences range from those who have no previous experience of science, shop floor workers, supervisors and senior management, to specialist scientists. Students come to us from a very wide range of industries and organisations both in the UK and abroad. Using the expertise available within UKHSA and academic and industry experts including Industry regulators, we also deliver training that focuses on specific aspects of radiation safety. This includes: Radon assessment, non-ionising radiation, personal monitoring, radiation metrology and emergency response. Find out more about courses here
We provide a complete range of radiation protection services including: