Legal action against medical institution

Dharma Sri Abeyratne

The Atomic Energy Authority (AEA) has taken legal action against a medical institution in the Pilimatalawa area for using an X-ray machine without having a licence issued by the AEA.

The AEA flying squad is conducting inquiries to find out how an X-ray machine which could harm the people, could be used without a valid licence.

The AEA is a statutory body which comes under the Ministry of Power and Energy and was established by the Atomic Energy Authority Act No.19 of 1969.

Under the power vested in the AEA by the Act, continuous raids are conducted by the AEA throughout the country since using such X-ray machines is illegal. Earlier, the AEA made the general public aware about the licensing procedure and using X-ray machines. Therefore, legal action will be taken against persons and institutes that violate the AEA regulations.

The Radiation and Radioisotope Technology, which has a wide range of applications in many areas can make a significant contribution to the development of medical, agricultural, industrial and environmental sectors in Sri Lanka. The AEA has the responsibility of facilitating the utilization of atomic energy technology in many sectors.It ensures that all uses of radiation and radioisotopes are carried out according to internationally accepted safety standards.