15 June 2026
Occupational exposure to medical and therapeutic uses of non-ionising radiation was the focus of a workshop hosted by the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) and the International Commission on Occupational Health in Italy last month.
The Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency’s Associate Professor Ken Karipidis contributed his expertise to the workshop, which was attended by over 100 professionals and scientists from over 20 countries.
A/Prof Karipidis is also the ICNIRP Vice Chair.
‘While non-ionising radiation doesn’t have enough energy to damage DNA in cells, its application can still cause burns, eye-injuries and other harms to patients and workers when not used correctly,’ A/Prof Karipidis said.
‘The use of non-ionising radiation in medical and therapeutic settings, like MRIs and cosmetic laser procedures, is a growing field with inconsistent regulation, and not as much research of the long-term health impacts compared to other non-ionising radiation exposures like mobile phone use.
‘It’s important that research, regulations, standards, and proper operating procedures are developed to ensure the safe use of these technologies for patients and workers.
‘This workshop in Italy was an opportunity to discuss current international best practices to safely use non-ionising radiation in medical settings and identify future research and regulatory opportunities.’
As one of the preeminent experts in the field, A/Prof Karipidis is currently supervising two PhD projects that are investigating topics related to the protection of consumers and workers exposed to non-ionising radiation in medical and other occupational settings.
ARPANSA experts like Ken apply their scientific knowledge and experience with international best practice to promote the awareness of the effects of radiation for the protection of people and the environment.
Learn more about this workshop: https://www.icnirp.org/en/activities/news/news-article/occupational-protection-medical-nir-workshop-report-may-2026.html
