Strahlenschutzgesetz

Strahlenschutzgesetz (StrSchG) is the German federal law that regulates protection from ionizing radiation and from radioactive substances. It provides the legal framework for the use, handling, transport, and disposal of radioactive materials and radiation sources, with the aim of preventing harm to people and the environment while enabling legitimate applications such as medicine, industry, and research.

The act covers non-nuclear uses of radiation, including medical diagnostics and therapy, industrial radiography, research, and teaching. It does not primarily govern the safety of nuclear reactors or other nuclear-energy activities, which are addressed primarily by the Atomgesetz (Atomic Energy Act). The StrSchG is designed to ensure justification, optimization (ALARA), and adherence to dose limits for workers and the public, in line with Euratom directives.

Key provisions require licensing or registration of radiation sources, obligations for employers to implement protective measures, and the appointment of radiation protection officers (Strahlenschutzbeauftragte). It mandates training, monitoring of exposed workers, medical surveillance when appropriate, and the enforcement of dose limits for occupational and public exposure. The act also regulates the transport of radioactive materials, emergency preparedness, and waste management.

Enforcement is conducted by the Federal Office for Radiation Protection (Bundesamt für Strahlenschutz, BfS) in coordination with the federal states, including inspections and sanctions for violations. The StrSchG is complemented by the Strahlenschutzverordnung (StrlSchV), which contains more detailed technical rules and standards for protective measures and operating practices, all aligned with European Union requirements.