Chapter 4
Ionising radiation
[ch 4: page 52]The foetus can be harmed by exposure to ionising radiation, including from radioactive materials inhaled or swallowed by the mother. There are specific radiation dose limits for the abdomen of any woman of reproductive capacity, found in the Ionising Radiation Regulations 1999. There is a specific obligation to provide information to female employees who may become pregnant or start breastfeeding. Work systems must keep a woman’s exposure as low as possible. The HSE has published Working safely with ionising radiation – guidelines for expectant and breastfeeding mothers.