Radiation Safety Act 2016

1: Title
This Act is the Radiation Safety Act 2016.
2: Commencement
1: This Act, other than section 98
2: Section 98
1: Preliminary matters and regulation of activities that involve radiation source
1: Preliminary matters
3: Purposes
The purposes of this Act are to—
a: establish a framework to protect the health and safety of people and protect the environment from the harmful effects of ionising radiation while allowing for the safe and beneficial use of ionising radiation; and
b: enable New Zealand to meet its international obligations relating to radiation protection, radiation safety and security, and nuclear non-proliferation, including (but not limited to) its obligations under—
i: the Convention on the Physical Protection of Nuclear Material done at New York and Vienna on 3 March 1980; and
ii: the International Convention for the Suppression of Acts of Nuclear Terrorism done at New York on 14 September 2005; and
iii: the Agreement between New Zealand and the International Atomic Energy Agency for the Application of Safeguards in Connection with the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons done at Vienna on 29 February 1972; and
iv: the Protocols to the agreement described in subparagraph (iii)
4: Application
This Act applies to—
a: any radioactive material listed in the first column of Schedule 2
i: has a radioactivity concentration that exceeds the acceptable activity concentration level for that material (as listed in the second column of Schedule 2
ii: has a radioactivity that exceeds the acceptable activity level for that material (as listed in the third column of Schedule 2
b: any irradiating apparatus. SR 1982/72 r 5
5: Interpretation
1: In this Act, unless the context otherwise requires,— authorisation
a: a source licence:
b: a use licence:
c: a consent code of practice section 86 conditions consent section 24 controlled radiation source section 30(2) Council section 80 Customs officer Customs controlled area Customs and Excise Act 1996 deal with
a: to manufacture, possess, control, manage, use, transport, store, export, import, sell, supply, or dispose of a radiation source; or
b: to carry out any other activity or practice involving the radiation source direct supervision Director section 76 Director-General document
a: anything on which there is writing or any image; and
b: anything on which there are marks, figures, symbols, or perforations that have a meaning for people qualified to interpret them; and
c: anything from which sounds, images, or writing can be reproduced, with or without the aid of anything else effective dose enforcement officer section 36 equivalent dose export fundamental requirements sections 9 to 12 IAEA import ionising radiation irradiating apparatus
a: is designed to generate ionising radiation such as X-rays, neutrons, electrons, or other charged particles; or
b: produces ionising radiation as a by-product—
i: resulting in a dose equivalent rate of or exceeding 1 microsievert per hour at a point 0.1 metres from any accessible surface; and
ii: that has a maximum energy of or exceeding 5 kiloelectronvolts Minister Ministry nuclear material occupational exposure occupier place
a: any dwelling, premises, vehicle, ship, craft, or aircraft; and
b: a building or a structure; and
c: part of a place possess public exposure
a: occupational exposure; or
b: exposure experienced by patients for the purpose of medical or dental diagnosis or treatment; or
c: exposure experienced by caregivers or comforters while providing care, support, or comfort to patients undergoing radiological procedures for medical or dental diagnosis or treatment; or
d: exposure experienced by volunteers in a programme of biomedical research radiation radiation danger
a: the health or safety of people as a result of their exposure to radiation; or
b: the environment as a result of its exposure to radiation radiation safety plan section 18 radiation safety requirements
a: the requirements of this Act, regulations, and the codes of practice; and
b: the requirements of any radiation safety plan; and
c: the conditions of any authorisation; and
d: the conditions of any exemption granted under section 86(3) radiation source radioactive material regulations sealed radioactive material
a: permanently sealed in a capsule; or
b: closely bonded and in solid form seize sell
a: supply or otherwise deal in or dispose of, whether by way of sale, barter, loan, or gift; and
b: receive for sale, expose for sale, have in possession for sale, or send or deliver for sale; and
c: offer or attempt to sell; and
d: cause or allow to be sold source licence section 17 transport
a: means the deliberate physical movement of a radiation source (other than that forming part of the means of propulsion) from one place to another; and
b: includes the temporary storage of the radiation source in transit, as well as carriage; but
c: does not include the movement of the radiation source from one place to another within a specified site unsealed radioactive material use licence section 22
2: For the purpose of the definition of nuclear material in subsection (1) source material
a: uranium containing a mixture of isotopes occurring in nature, uranium depleted in the isotope 235, or thorium; and
b: any material described in paragraph (a)
c: any material prescribed under section 91(1)﻿(c) special fissionable material
a: plutonium-239, uranium-233, or uranium enriched in the isotopes 235 or 233 or both; or
b: any combination of the material described in paragraph (a)
c: any material prescribed under section 91(1)﻿(c)
3: For the purpose of the definition of public exposure, caregiver comforter
6: Act binds the Crown
This Act binds the Crown.
7: Relationship with specified enactments
1: Nothing in this Act affects or limits the application of—
a: the New Zealand Nuclear Free Zone, Disarmament, and Arms Control Act 1987
b: the Nuclear-Test-Ban Act 1999
c: the Atomic Energy Act 1945
d: any regulations made under an Act referred to in paragraphs (a) to (c)
2: In the event of any inconsistency between the provisions of an Act specified in subsection (1) subsection (1)
3: In the event of any inconsistency between the provisions of any regulations made under an Act specified in subsection (1) subsection (1)
4: To avoid doubt, if any radioactive material to which this Act applies is also a substance to which the Atomic Energy Act 1945 Fundamental requirements
8: Duty to comply with fundamental requirements
1: Every person who deals with a radiation source must ensure that people and the environment are protected now and in the future from the adverse effects of the radiation source by complying with the fundamental requirements set out in sections 9 to 12
2: In sections 10 to 12 unauthorised
9: Protecting people from radiation
1: A person who deals with a radiation source must ensure that as a result of dealing with the radiation source, the expected benefits to people and society outweigh the risk of harm to people and the environment.
2: A person who deals with a radiation source must ensure that the magnitude of individual doses of ionising radiation to which a person may be exposed, the number of people subject to exposure, and the likelihood of exposures to ionising radiation are as low as is reasonably achievable, taking into account economic, social, and environmental factors.
3: A person who deals with a radiation source must ensure that any ionising radiation exposure that results from a planned operation or activity does not exceed the applicable dose limits set out in Schedule 3
10: Safety of radiation sources
1: No person may deal with a radiation source unless it is fit for its intended purpose.
2: A person who deals with a radiation source must take all reasonable steps to—
a: ensure the safe placement and containment of the radiation source while it is stored or used; and
b: minimise the likelihood of any accident, incident, or emergency that is caused wholly or partly by, or involves, the radiation source; and
c: plan for action to be taken to respond to and mitigate the consequences of—
i: any accident, incident, or emergency; or
ii: any loss of or unauthorised removal of the radiation source.
3: Despite subsection (1)
a: the purpose of the dealing is to enable the source to be serviced or repaired or otherwise made fit for its intended purpose; and
b: the person holds a use licence or satisfies the requirements of this Act for dealing with a radiation source without an authorisation.
11: Security of radiation source
Every person who deals with a radiation source must ensure that there are appropriate security measures in place to prevent—
a: unauthorised access to the radiation source or to the place where the radiation source is stored or used:
b: the loss or theft of the radiation source:
c: sabotage of the radiation source:
d: the unauthorised transfer or unauthorised removal of the radiation source:
e: any unauthorised act through the use of the radiation source.
12: Transport, storage, and disposal of radiation source
Every person who transports, stores, or disposes of a radiation source must do so safely and securely.
2: Activities that require authorisation
General provisions
13: Activities that require authorisation under this Act
No person may, unless this Act or regulations provide otherwise,—
a: manufacture, possess, manage, or control a radiation source without a source licence:
b: use a radiation source without a use licence:
c: import or export radioactive material without a consent.
14: Applications for authorisations must be made to Director
An application for a source licence, use licence, or consent must—
a: be made to the Director; and
b: contain the prescribed information; and
c: be accompanied by the prescribed fee.
15: Situations where source licence not required
Despite section 13(a)
a: the transport of a radiation source:
b: the temporary custody of a radiation source by a person other than the holder of the source licence if—
i: the management or control of the radiation source is subject to the direction of the holder of the source licence; and
ii: the temporary custody is not inconsistent with any term or condition of the source licence.
16: Situations where use licence not required
Despite section 13(b)
a: for the performance of any prescribed activity involving a radiation source by a person authorised by regulations; or
b: where the use of the radiation source is authorised by a source licence under section 17(2)
c: where the use of the radiation source is in accordance with section 21(4)﻿(a) or (b) Source licences
17: Source licence
1: A source licence—
a: authorises a person to manage and control a radiation source regardless of whether the person owns or has physical possession of the radiation source; and
b: may authorise a person to—
i: manufacture a radiation source; or
ii: have possession of a radiation source; and
c: may apply to 1 or more radiation sources.
2: A source licence that authorises a person to have possession of a radiation source may authorise activities involving passive or limited use of the radiation source, such as the observation of the radiation source to obtain information.
18: Radiation safety plan
1: The Director may require an applicant for a source licence or renewal of that licence to submit a radiation safety plan to the Director in respect of 1 or more radiation sources to which the application relates.
2: A requirement by the Director to submit a plan must be in writing and state the matters that the plan must address.
3: The plan must demonstrate how the applicant intends to comply with—
a: the fundamental requirements that apply to the radiation source; and
b: the requirements of this Act, regulations, and the codes of practice.
4: The plan must—
a: identify any risks of adverse effects on people or the environment that may be caused by—
i: the radiation source; or
ii: the proposed use of the radiation source; or
iii: the proposed location of the radiation source; and
b: identify any risks involved in transporting the radiation source; and
c: identify mechanisms to—
i: prevent risks of the kinds described in paragraphs (a) and (b)
ii: reduce and eliminate those risks if they do arise; and
d: if required by the Director, set out the steps that the applicant will take to—
i: reduce the likelihood of an accident, incident, or emergency that is caused by or involves the radiation source; and
ii: mitigate any adverse effects of any such accident, incident, or emergency; and
e: address any matter that the Director considers should be addressed (for example, how the radiation source is to be transported and how and where the radiation source is to be used or stored); and
f: be in the prescribed form (if any).
5: Before submitting the plan, the applicant must consult any agency that has a role in, or is likely to be affected by, the plan.
6: The Director may approve the plan only if satisfied that the plan complies with the requirements of this section.
19: When Director may grant source licence
1: The Director may grant a source licence if—
a: the Director is satisfied that—
i: the applicant is a suitable person to hold a source licence; and
ii: the activity proposed in relation to the radiation source does not present a significant risk to the health or safety of people or to the environment; and
b: the Director has approved any radiation safety plan submitted by the applicant; and
c: the Director considers that granting the source licence is appropriate and justified.
2: The Director may impose conditions on a source licence that the Director considers appropriate.
3: Conditions on a source licence may, without limitation, relate to—
a: the type of radiation source that the person is authorised to manufacture, possess, or control:
b: the permitted uses of the radiation source:
c: the place (or places) at which the radiation source may be held or stored:
d: information that must be disclosed to other agencies regarding the radiation source.
4: If the source licence applies to more than 1 radiation source, the Director may impose different conditions in respect of each radiation source.
5: If the source licence relates to nuclear material, the Director must not grant the licence unless—
a: the Director has received, to his or her satisfaction, assurances from the applicant that the applicant will comply with New Zealand’s international obligations referred to in section 3(b)
b: either—
i: the Minister approves the licence; or
ii: the Director is authorised under section 78
20: Duties of holders of source licence
1: The holder of a source licence is responsible at all times for the management and control of each radiation source to which the licence applies.
2: The holder of a source licence has the following duties in respect of each radiation source to which the licence applies:
a: the holder must ensure that the radiation source is properly maintained and stored; and
b: the holder must ensure that appropriate security arrangements are in place to avoid accidental or malicious use of the radiation source; and
c: the holder must not abandon the radiation source; and
d: the holder must comply with the radiation safety requirements.
3: If the holder of a source licence believes that an incident has occurred that has resulted in unintended loss or release of radiation, or overexposure of a person to radiation, the holder must—
a: notify the Director as soon as practicable; and
b: take steps to mitigate the effects of the incident, including, as appropriate, limiting access to the affected area; and
c: provide appropriate clothing; and
d: ensure that any person who has been exposed to radiation is provided with appropriate information; and
e: comply with any other steps as required by the Director or prescribed by regulations (if any). Use licences
21: Use licence
1: A use licence may authorise the licence holder to use any radiation source, a specified radiation source, or a radiation source of a specified class.
2: Only a natural person may apply for a use licence.
3: The use of a radiation source includes—
a: the use of radiation emitting from the radiation source:
b: causing the radiation source to emit radiation:
c: if the radiation source is radioactive material, administering, injecting, or implanting the material into a person, animal, plant, or thing.
4: A natural person ( person A section 13(b)
a: use the radiation source under the direct supervision of an authorised person; or
b: use the radiation source under the written instructions of an authorised person if—
i: the use of the radiation source is of a mechanical or procedural nature; and
ii: person A is able to meet the fundamental requirements.
5: The written instructions referred to in subsection (4)﻿(b)
a: contain procedures for the safe use of the radiation source; and
b: comply with the fundamental requirements; and
c: be recorded by the authorised person in accordance with section 35
6: In subsections (4) and (5) authorised person
a: the person who holds the use licence for the radiation source; or
b: a person who is authorised by regulations to perform a prescribed activity involving the radiation source.
22: Grant of use licence
1: The Director may grant a use licence if satisfied that—
a: the proposed use of the radiation source does not present a significant risk to the health or safety of people or to the environment; and
b: the proposed use of the radiation source is appropriate and justified; and
c: the applicant has the appropriate training, qualifications, and experience; and
d: the applicant is a suitable person to hold the licence.
2: The Director may impose conditions on a use licence that the Director considers appropriate.
3: Conditions on a use licence may, without limitation, restrict—
a: the type of radiation source that may be used; and
b: the uses of the radiation source, including any practices that may be carried out that involve the radiation source; and
c: the places at which the radiation source may be used.
4: If the use licence relates to nuclear material, the Director must not grant the licence unless—
a: the Minister approves the licence; or
b: the Director is authorised under section 78
23: Duties of holders of use licences and other users
The following people must comply with the radiation safety requirements:
a: the holder of a use licence; and
b: any person who uses a radiation source in accordance with section 21(4)﻿(a) or (b) Consents
24: Grant of consent to import or export radioactive material
1: The Director may grant a consent to import or export radioactive material if the Director is satisfied that—
a: the applicant is a suitable person to hold the consent; and
b: the proposed import or export does not present a significant risk to the health or safety of people or to the environment; and
c: the proposed import or export is appropriate and justified; and
d: the proposed import or export is consistent with the purposes of this Act.
2: The Director may impose conditions on the consent that the Director considers appropriate.
3: Conditions on a consent may, without limitation, include—
a: restrictions on the type and quantity of radioactive material that may be imported or exported; and
b: restrictions relating to the date by which the importation or exportation must take place.
4: If the consent relates to nuclear material, the Director must not grant the consent unless—
a: the Director has received, to his or her satisfaction, assurances from the applicant that the applicant will comply with New Zealand’s international obligations referred to in section 3(b)
b: either—
i: the Minister approves the consent; or
ii: the Director is authorised under section 78
25: Duties of consent holders
1: A consent holder must—
a: ensure that appropriate security arrangements are in place to prevent or avoid accidental or malicious use of the radiation source; and
b: comply with the radiation safety requirements.
2: If the consent holder believes that an incident has occurred that has resulted in unintended loss or release of radiation, or overexposure of a person to radiation, the holder must—
a: notify the Director as soon as practicable; and
b: take steps to mitigate the effects of the incident, including, as appropriate, limiting access to the affected area; and
c: provide appropriate clothing; and
d: ensure that any person who has been exposed to radiation is provided with appropriate information; and
e: comply with any other steps required by the Director or prescribed by regulations (if any). Further provisions relating to all authorisations
26: When authorisation expires
1: The Director must determine the period for which an authorisation is in force, which must not exceed the maximum period prescribed by regulations (if any) for an authorisation or class of authorisation.
2: The authorisation expires on the expiry date specified by the Director unless—
a: it is earlier renewed, suspended, or cancelled; or
b: section 28(6)
27: Suspension, variation, or cancellation of authorisation
1: The Director may suspend, vary, or cancel an authorisation if he or she believes on reasonable grounds that there is evidence of 1 or more of the following:
a: the holder of the authorisation has failed to comply with any of the radiation safety requirements:
b: the authorisation was obtained improperly:
c: the holder of the authorisation has failed to comply with a compliance order:
d: the holder of the authorisation has been convicted of an offence against this Act:
e: there would be a risk to the health or safety of people or to the environment if the authorisation were not suspended, varied, or cancelled:
f: there would be a risk to the security of the radiation source if the authorisation were not suspended, varied, or cancelled:
g: the holder of the authorisation has ceased to hold a qualification, or meet other criteria, that formed the basis on which the authorisation was granted:
h: the holder of the authorisation has persistently or repeatedly compromised radiation safety:
i: the holder of the authorisation has ceased working under the authorisation:
j: the holder of the authorisation has failed to register a controlled radiation source in accordance with section 31
2: The Director may vary an authorisation at the request of the holder.
3: The Director must cancel an authorisation at the request of the holder.
28: Application to renew authorisation
1: An application to renew an authorisation must—
a: be made to the Director; and
b: contain the prescribed information; and
c: be accompanied by the prescribed fee.
2: The Director may, subject to subsection (5)
a: the reasons for granting the original authorisation still apply; or
b: there are other reasons that—
i: justify the renewal of the authorisation; and
ii: comply with the provisions of this Act that apply to the granting of the authorisation.
3: The applicant, in the case of a source licence, must comply with any requirement to submit a radiation safety plan under section 18
4: Subject to subsection (5)
a: the applicant must apply for the renewal of the approval for that plan; and
b: the Director may—
i: approve the plan if the reasons for approving the original plan still apply; or
ii: approve the plan for different reasons if satisfied that the plan complies with the requirements of section 18
5: If the authorisation for which a renewal is sought relates to nuclear material, the Director must not renew the authorisation without the Minister's approval, unless the Director is authorised under section 78
6: An authorisation remains in force until an application for its renewal has been determined, but only if the Director receives, before the authorisation expires,—
a: the application for renewal; and
b: the prescribed fee; and
c: all necessary supporting information.
29: Director may require further information
1: If the Director considers that an applicant for an authorisation or a renewal of an authorisation is able to provide further relevant information, the Director may, by written notice to the applicant given not later than 10 working days after receipt of the application, request that the applicant provide the information specified in the notice.
2: If the applicant fails to comply with the request within 1 year after the date of the request, the application lapses and a new application will need to be made in relation to the same matter. 1996 No 30 s 52
3: Register of controlled radiation sources and records
30: Director must keep register of controlled radiation sources
1: The Director must keep a register of all controlled radiation sources.
2: In this Act, a controlled radiation source
a: any irradiating apparatus:
b: any sealed radioactive material:
c: any nuclear material (whether sealed or unsealed):
d: any unsealed radioactive material of a kind that regulations require to be registered.
3: The purpose of the register is—
a: to help the Director to ascertain and monitor the location of controlled radiation sources; and
b: to facilitate the exercise of the compliance, assessment, and enforcement functions and powers of the Director; and
c: to support emergency preparedness and responses.
31: Controlled radiation sources must be registered
A person who has management or control of a controlled radiation source must,—
a: before dealing with the radiation source, register the radiation source with the Director; and
b: comply with requirements for registration that are prescribed in regulations (if any); and
c: after registration of the radiation source, notify the Director as soon as possible—
i: of any change in the location of the radiation source; and
ii: of any change in the possession of the radiation source; and
iii: as to whether the radiation source has been disposed of or removed from New Zealand's jurisdiction; and
iv: of any other matter prescribed by regulations for the purpose of this section.
32: Information that must be on register
1: The register must include the following information for each controlled radiation source:
a: a description of the radiation source:
b: changes in the location of the radiation source as notified under section 31(c)﻿(i)
c: the name and contact address of the person who has management or control of the radiation source:
d: if applicable, the nature of the authorisation and the date that the authorisation was granted, renewed, or varied:
e: if the radiation source is covered by an exemption set out in regulations, the nature of that exemption:
f: any other information that may be required by the Director or by regulations.
2: The Director may include in the register any other information in respect of the controlled radiation source that the Director considers relevant.
33: Form of register
1: The register may be kept in any manner that the Director thinks fit, including, either wholly or partly, by means of a device or facility that—
a: records or shares information electronically or by other means; and
b: permits the recorded information to be readily inspected or reproduced in a usable form; and
c: permits the recorded information to be accessed by electronic means, including (without limitation) by means of remote logon access.
2: The Director may, as he or she thinks fit, remove any information on the register to update the register or to ensure that the information on the register is accurate.
34: Search of register by approved persons
1: A search of the register may be carried out by an approved person—
a: for a purpose specified in section 30(3)﻿(a) to (c)
b: if it is necessary to prevent or lessen a serious and imminent threat to the health or safety of people or to the environment; or
c: if it is necessary to avoid prejudice to the maintenance of the law (including the prevention, detection, investigation, prosecution, and punishment of offences); or
d: for a purpose authorised by the Privacy Commissioner under section 30
e: if the information from the search is needed to plan for responses to any emergency.
2: In this section, approved person
a: the Director-General; or
b: an enforcement officer; or
c: a person approved by the board of Fire and Emergency New Zealand; or
d: a person approved by the Director. Section 34(1)﻿(d) amended 1 December 2020 section 217 Privacy Act 2020 Section 34(2)﻿(c) replaced 1 July 2017 section 197 Fire and Emergency New Zealand Act 2017 Records
35: Duty to keep records and make them available
1: A person who has management or control of a radiation source must—
a: keep records that contain sufficient information to enable the Director to ascertain whether the person is complying with the radiation safety requirements; and
b: ensure that the records are made available to the Director when requested.
2: Without limiting subsection (1)
a: the steps taken to ensure compliance with the radiation safety requirements; and
b: any analysis undertaken or management or emergency management plans prepared by the person to assist him or her in complying with his or her duties under this Act; and
c: the monitoring of steps taken to ensure compliance with the radiation safety requirements; and
d: any complaints relating to the activity to which the authorisation relates that are received from any person, and the actions taken in relation to those complaints.
3: If a person is granted an authorisation in relation to radioactive material, he or she must also keep, in sufficient detail, records of—
a: the nature and quantity of any radioactive material that is held; and
b: the nature and quantity of any radioactive material that is imported, exported, or proposed to be imported or exported, and the dates and times (including expected dates and times) of each export or import of radioactive material; and
c: the place where the radioactive material is held; and
d: the site plans of the place where the radioactive material is held, except where it is held in a Customs controlled area; and
e: any radioactive waste associated with the radioactive material (regardless of whether the radioactive material is held, imported, or exported).
4: The Director may, for the purposes of this Act, disclose any information obtained or made available under this section to—
a: the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade; and
b: any agency inside or outside New Zealand. 1956 No 65 s 69ZD
4: Enforcement
Enforcement officers
36: Appointment of enforcement officers
1: Temporary or permanent enforcement officers may be appointed—
a: to perform the functions and duties, and exercise the powers, of enforcement officers conferred by this Act; or
b: to perform particular functions or duties, or exercise particular powers, whether conferred on enforcement officers by this Act or delegated by the Director.
2: Before appointing a person as an enforcement officer, the Director must be satisfied that the person has appropriate experience and expertise to perform the functions and duties and exercise the powers to which the appointment relates.
3: The Director may impose conditions on the appointment of an enforcement officer.
4: The Director must issue a warrant of appointment to every person appointed as an enforcement officer.
5: A warrant of appointment must—
a: specify the functions, duties, and powers of the holder; and
b: be in the prescribed form; and
c: bear the photograph and signature of the holder; and
d: contain any other particulars that may be prescribed.
6: A warrant of appointment is, in the absence of evidence to the contrary, sufficient proof that the holder of the warrant may perform the functions and duties, and exercise the powers, conferred on an enforcement officer.
7: A person who ceases to be an enforcement officer must return the person's warrant of appointment.
37: Power to inspect places
1: An enforcement officer may, subject to subsections (3) and (6)
a: monitoring compliance with the radiation safety requirements; or
b: monitoring compliance with New Zealand's international obligations referred to in section 3(b)
c: monitoring compliance with any compliance order; or
d: investigating and reporting on any complaints made to the Director in respect of any matter to which this Act applies.
2: An enforcement officer may, subject to subsections (3) and (6)
a: any place in which the officer reasonably believes a radiation source is located or is used for providing radiation services; and
b: any place that the officer reasonably suspects—
i: has been, is being, or will be used in the commission of an offence against this Act; or
ii: contains a threat to the health or safety of people or to the environment.
3: An enforcement officer must not enter a private dwelling except with the consent of an occupier or owner of that dwelling or pursuant to a warrant issued under section 98
4: A person to whom a request for entry is made by an enforcement officer under subsection (1) or (2)
5: An enforcement officer may, when inspecting any place for the purpose in subsection (1)﻿(b)
6: An enforcement officer must exercise his or her powers under this section in a manner that does not prejudice—
a: the security and defence of New Zealand; or
b: the international relations of the Government of New Zealand.
38: Powers of enforcement officers when inspecting places
1: An enforcement officer has, when inspecting any place under section 37
a: inspect any item reasonably believed to be a radiation source (an item
b: take samples or measurements of any thing reasonably believed to involve a radiation source:
c: record, by any means, any thing, process, or situation reasonably believed to involve a radiation source:
d: check the functioning and calibration of instruments and measuring equipment associated with the item:
e: install and use equipment required for the measurement, surveillance, calibration, or containment of the item:
f: take possession of and remove any equipment or device inspected:
g: take possession of and remove any radiation source:
h: inspect any document that is found in the place and that is believed on reasonable grounds to relate to a radiation source (whether in the place or elsewhere):
i: take or make copies of, or copies of extracts from, any document inspected and, for that purpose,—
i: take possession of and remove the document from the place for any reasonable period:
ii: in the case of a document stored otherwise than on paper, take any reasonable steps to reproduce, in usable form, any or all of the information in it.
2: Any person at the place must comply with a request made by an enforcement officer for the purpose of facilitating the exercise of any power under subsection (1)
3: If an enforcement officer has taken any thing in accordance with subsection (1)﻿(f), (g), or (i)
a: the officer must, within 5 working days after taking the thing, give the occupier of the place written notice of the thing taken, the reason for taking the thing, and where the thing will be kept; or
b: the officer must, within 20 working days after taking the thing, give the person in charge of the place written notice that states—
i: whether the thing will be returned or destroyed; and
ii: either—
A: the time and date of the return of the thing to the place; or
B: the results of the analysis of the thing and why it is being destroyed.
4: An enforcement officer exercising powers under this section may be accompanied by—
a: any constable or international inspector; and
b: any assistants necessary in the circumstances.
39: Compliance with Building Act 2004
1: If, while inspecting a place under section 37 Building Act 2004
2: In this section, building sitework territorial authority
40: Requirement to answer questions
1: In this section, an applicable person
2: When inspecting any place under section 37
a: monitoring compliance with the radiation safety requirements; or
b: monitoring compliance with New Zealand's international obligations referred to in section 3(b)
c: monitoring compliance with any compliance order; or
d: ascertaining whether the place concerned—
i: is where a radiation source is located; or
ii: has been, is being, or will be used in the commission of an offence against this Act; or
iii: contains a threat to the health or safety of people or to the environment.
41: General power to request information
1: An enforcement officer may request in writing any information about any radiation source from—
a: any person who holds an authorisation under this Act or any person acting under that person’s supervision; or
b: any person who is exempted by regulations from the requirement to hold a use licence or any person acting under that person’s supervision; or
c: any person who the officer reasonably believes possesses or uses a radiation source.
2: A person to whom the request is made must comply with the request within 10 working days after receiving it. International inspectors
42: Appointment of international inspectors
1: For the purpose set out in section 3(b)
2: The Director must not appoint a person under subsection (1)
3: The Director must issue a certificate identifying the international inspector.
43: International inspector must be accompanied by enforcement officer
1: An international inspector must be accompanied by an enforcement officer during the period specified by the Director under section 42(1)
2: An international inspector must produce his or her identification certificate on request. Compliance orders
44: Compliance orders
1: An enforcement officer may, with the prior approval of the Director, issue a compliance order to a person if—
a: the officer believes the person is not complying with the radiation safety requirements; or
b: the officer believes on reasonable grounds that—
i: the person has done or omitted to do anything that involves a radiation source; and
ii: the act or omission has caused or is likely to cause significant adverse effects on the health or safety of people or on the environment.
2: A compliance order made under this section—
a: may require the person to cease anything being done, or prohibit the person from commencing anything to be done, by or on behalf of that person that the enforcement officer believes—
i: contravenes or is likely to contravene the radiation safety requirements; or
ii: relates to any radiation source and has, or is likely to have, an adverse effect on the health or safety of people or on the environment; or
iii: relates to any radiation source and has, or is likely to have, an adverse effect on the safety or security of the radiation source; or
b: may require the person to do something that the enforcement officer believes is—
i: necessary to ensure that the person complies with the radiation safety requirements; or
ii: necessary to avoid, remedy, or mitigate any actual or likely adverse effects on people or the environment caused by or on behalf of the person that result from any breach of the radiation safety requirements.
3: A compliance order may be made subject to any conditions that the enforcement officer considers reasonable in the circumstances.
4: The person to whom the compliance order is issued must—
a: comply with the order within the time specified in the order; and
b: pay all the costs and expenses of complying with the order, unless the order directs otherwise.
45: Form, content, and service of compliance order
1: A compliance order must contain—
a: the name of the person to whom it is addressed; and
b: the reasons for the order; and
c: the actions required to be taken or ceased or not undertaken; and
d: the period within which the actions must be taken or cease (which must be a period that is reasonable in the circumstances); and
e: the consequences of not obeying the order; and
f: the name and address of the person who served the order; and
g: any other information required by regulations.
2: A compliance order must be served in the manner prescribed in regulations. Seizure of radiation source
46: Seizure, storage, and disposal of radiation source
1: The Director may at any time seize a radiation source in order to prevent or mitigate any immediate risk—
a: to the health or safety of people or to the environment; or
b: posed by the safety or security of the radiation source.
2: The Director may at any time seize a radiation source that the Director has reasonable cause to suspect—
a: is in the possession of a person who does not hold an authorisation for the radiation source; or
b: is evidence of the commission of an offence under this Act or the Terrorism Suppression Act 2002
3: The Director or any Customs officer may at any time seize a radiation source that—
a: is being, or is to be, exported without consent under this Act; or
b: has been imported without consent under this Act.
4: The Director must—
a: store the radiation source seized under this section safely and securely in order to minimise any risk to people and the environment; and
b: ensure that the storage of the radiation source complies with the radiation safety requirements; and
c: take steps to render the radiation source harmless.
5: The Director—
a: may store or dispose of the radiation source seized under this section in any manner that the Director considers appropriate in the circumstances; but
b: if the radiation source is seized under subsection (2)﻿(b)
6: The costs of seizing, storing, or disposing of a radiation source under this section may be recovered from—
a: any person who, in failing to comply with a provision of this Act, caused or was likely to have caused the immediate risk referred to in subsection (1)
b: the person described in subsection (2)﻿(a)
c: the person who committed the offence under this Act or the Terrorism Suppression Act 2002
7: The Director may,—
a: in any manner that he or she considers appropriate, take steps to remedy any adverse effects or damage associated with the radiation source, including remediation of a site associated with the source ( remediation
b: recover the costs of any remediation from a person referred to in subsection (6)
47: Director may return seized material
The Director may return material seized under section 46(1)
a: the material—
i: belongs to that State; or
ii: belongs to a national or resident of that State; or
iii: was stolen or unlawfully obtained from that State; and
b: the return of the material is consistent with New Zealand's international obligations; and
c: the Director is satisfied with the arrangements, if any, for the recovery of all or some of the costs of the return.
2: Appeals, emergencies, offences, and other matters
1: Appeals
48: Appeal against Director's decision may be made to District Court
1: A person affected by any of the following decisions of the Director may appeal against the decision to the District Court:
a: a decision to grant an authorisation:
b: a decision to impose conditions or a particular condition on an authorisation:
c: a decision to decline an authorisation:
d: a decision to suspend, vary, or cancel an authorisation:
e: a decision to issue a compliance order:
f: a decision to impose conditions or a particular condition on a compliance order.
2: The appeal—
a: must be brought to the District Court by way of notice of appeal in accordance with the rules of court; and
b: must be lodged within 20 working days after notice of the decision is communicated to the appellant, or within any further time that a District Court Judge allows on application made before or after the period expires.
49: District Court may refer matter back for reconsideration
1: Instead of determining an appeal under section 48
2: In giving a direction under subsection (1)
a: must state its reasons for the direction; and
b: may, as it thinks just, give any other directions in relation to the matter referred back for reconsideration.
3: The Director—
a: must reconsider the matter; and
b: in doing so, must—
i: take the court's reasons into account; and
ii: give effect to the court's directions. 2003 No 48 s 111
50: Decision to have effect pending determination of appeal
A decision of the Director against which an appeal is lodged continues in force unless the District Court orders otherwise.
51: Procedure on appeal
1: An appeal under this Part must be heard as soon as is reasonably practicable after it is lodged.
2: An appeal under this Part is by way of rehearing.
3: On hearing the appeal, the District Court—
a: may confirm, reverse, or modify the decision appealed against; and
b: may make any other decision that the Director could have made.
4: The court must not review—
a: any part of a decision not appealed against; or
b: any decision not appealed against.
5: Except as provided in section 52
52: Appeal on question of law to High Court
1: A party to an appeal to the District Court under section 48
2: The appeal must be heard and determined in accordance with the High Court Rules 2016 Section 52(2) amended 18 October 2016 section 183(c) Senior Courts Act 2016
2: Emergencies
53: Interpretation
In this subpart, unless the context otherwise requires,— emergency management powers section 9(h) enforcement officer
a: an enforcement officer within the meaning of section 5(1)
b: any constable, or an employee, volunteer, or contractor of Fire and Emergency New Zealand exercising functions under the Fire and Emergency New Zealand Act 2017
c: a person appointed, for the purpose of enforcing the provisions of the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act 1996 section 97 non-invasive radioactivity testing non-invasive testing on site Section 53 enforcement officer replaced 1 July 2017 section 197 Fire and Emergency New Zealand Act 2017
54: Declaration of radiation emergency
1: The Director may declare a radiation emergency if—
a: the Director has reasonable grounds to believe there is a radiation danger; and
b: a state of emergency is not in force under the Civil Defence Emergency Management Act 2002
c: the radiation danger is not being dealt with under the Fire and Emergency New Zealand Act 2017
d: the Police are not exercising any emergency management powers in response to the radiation danger.
2: Despite subsection (1)
a: subsection (1)﻿(c) employee, volunteer, or contractor of Fire and Emergency New Zealand who is
b: subsection (1)﻿(d)
3: The Director must specify the area to which the declaration of a radiation emergency applies.
4: A declaration of a radiation emergency—
a: comes into force at the time and date on which the declaration is made; and
b: expires, subject to subsection (5)
c: may, subject to subsection (5)
d: may be terminated before its expiry by the Director at a time and date specified by the Director.
5: A declaration of a radiation emergency that is not made in writing expires 48 hours after the declaration is made unless the Director confirms the declaration in writing within those 48 hours.
6: If a declaration of emergency under the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act 1996
7: A declaration of a radiation emergency under this section has effect over the area specified under subsection (3)
8: Despite subsections (4) and (5) Civil Defence Emergency Management Act 2002 Section 54(1)﻿(c) amended 1 July 2017 section 197 Fire and Emergency New Zealand Act 2017 Section 54(2)﻿(a) amended 1 July 2017 section 197 Fire and Emergency New Zealand Act 2017
55: On site declaration of radiation emergency
1: An enforcement officer may declare a radiation emergency on site if—
a: the officer has reasonable grounds to believe there is a radiation danger; and
b: a state of emergency is not in force under the Civil Defence Emergency Management Act 2002
c: the radiation danger is not being dealt with under the Fire and Emergency New Zealand Act 2017
d: the Police are not exercising any emergency management powers in response to the radiation danger.
2: Despite subsection (1)
a: subsection (1)﻿(c) employee, volunteer, or contractor of Fire and Emergency New Zealand who is
b: subsection (1)﻿(d)
3: The enforcement officer must declare the radiation emergency by—
a: identifying himself or herself to any people in the vicinity; and
b: stating his or her authority to exercise emergency powers; and
c: announcing the nature of the emergency and specifying the area to which the declaration applies.
4: The enforcement officer must as soon as is reasonably practicable notify the Director that a radiation emergency has been declared under this section.
5: The declaration of a radiation emergency under this section ceases on the earliest of the following times:
a: 48 hours after the time of declaration:
b: when a state of emergency is declared under the Civil Defence Emergency Management Act 2002
c: when the radiation emergency is managed under the Fire and Emergency New Zealand Act 2017
d: when the Police exercise their emergency management powers in response to the emergency.
6: Despite subsection (5)
7: If a declaration of emergency under the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act 1996
8: A declaration of a radiation emergency under this section has effect over the area announced under subsection (3) Section 55(1)﻿(c) amended 1 July 2017 section 197 Fire and Emergency New Zealand Act 2017 Section 55(2)﻿(a) amended 1 July 2017 section 197 Fire and Emergency New Zealand Act 2017 Section 55(5)﻿(c) amended 1 July 2017 section 197 Fire and Emergency New Zealand Act 2017
56: Effect of declaration on certain enforcement officers
1: As long as a declaration of a radiation emergency under section 54 55 paragraph (c) section 53 Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act 1996 Part 9
2: Subsection (1) Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act 1996
57: Emergency powers
1: An enforcement officer may, while a radiation emergency is in force or while subsection (2)
a: enter a place at any time—
i: without a warrant; and
ii: without complying with section 37
b: require a person to undergo non-invasive radioactivity testing if the officer has reasonable cause to believe that the person—
i: has been exposed to radiation; and
ii: may pose a risk to the health or safety of any person or to the environment:
c: exercise 1 or more of the powers set out in section 37
d: exercise 1 or more of the powers set out in section 46
e: direct a person to stop an activity that may be contributing to the radiation danger:
f: request, either orally or in writing, a person to take action to prevent or limit the extent of the radiation danger:
g: direct a person to leave a place that is in the vicinity of the radiation danger:
h: direct a person to refrain from entering the vicinity of the radiation danger:
i: requisition property for use in responding to the radiation danger:
j: destroy property or anything else in order to prevent or limit the extent of the radiation danger:
k: secure the site for up to 24 hours after the radiation danger or state of emergency has ceased.
2: This subsection applies if—
a: a state of emergency is in force under the Civil Defence Emergency Management Act 2002
b: the Director of Civil Defence Emergency Management or a Controller (within the meaning of the Civil Defence Emergency Management Act 2002
i: has reasonable grounds to believe that a radiation danger has arisen as part of the emergency; and
ii: has requested that an enforcement officer respond to or assist in responding to the radiation danger.
3: An enforcement officer may exercise the powers conferred by subsection (1)
a: within or outside the declared radiation emergency area or the area in which the radiation danger is located; and
b: only to the extent that those powers are reasonably necessary to eliminate or reduce the extent of the damage caused by the radiation danger.
4: If an enforcement officer enters private property pursuant to the powers conferred by subsection (1)
5: Every person who is required by an enforcement officer, under subsection (1),
6: In subsection (1)﻿(f) person Fire and Emergency New Zealand 1996 No 30 s 137 Section 57(6) amended 1 July 2017 section 197 Fire and Emergency New Zealand Act 2017
58: Compensation for property requisitioned or destroyed
1: This section applies if an enforcement officer or a person acting at the enforcement officer’s request requisitions property from a person under section 57(1)﻿(i) section 57(1)﻿(j)
2: If this section applies, reasonable compensation for any loss or damage caused by the requisition or destruction of the property must, at the written request of a person with an interest in the property, be paid,—
a: if the enforcement officer is a member of the Police, out of money appropriated by Parliament for the purpose; or
b: if the enforcement officer was appointed under section 36
c: in any other case, by the organisation whose chief executive appointed the enforcement officer.
3: Compensation is not payable under this section to any person who caused, or contributed substantially to, the emergency that brought about the requisition or destruction.
4: A court of competent jurisdiction must determine any dispute about any 1 or more of the following:
a: a person’s entitlement to compensation under this section:
b: the amount of compensation:
c: the liability of the Crown, or any other person or organisation, to pay compensation. 1996 No 30 s 138
59: Protection of enforcement officers and people assisting
No action or proceedings may be brought against an enforcement officer or a person acting at an enforcement officer’s request under this Part in respect of any action taken by the person if the person acted in good faith and with reasonable care.
60: Radiation response plan
The Director must ensure that there is a radiation response plan for events that may involve radiation safety and that the plan contains appropriate operational arrangements.
61: Director to contribute to development of emergency management planning and strategies under other Acts
The Director must contribute to the development of emergency management strategies and emergency management plans under other Acts to the extent that those strategies or plans relate to radiation safety.
3: Offences
62: Offence to contravene fundamental requirements
1: A person who contravenes any of the fundamental requirements commits an offence and is liable on conviction,—
a: in the case of an individual, to a fine not exceeding $100,000; or
b: in the case of a person or an organisation other than an individual, to a fine not exceeding $500,000.
2: If a person is convicted of an offence under this section, the court may, instead of or in addition to imposing a fine, order the person to mitigate or remedy, or pay the costs of mitigating or remedying, any adverse effects on people or the environment that—
a: were caused by or on behalf of the person; or
b: relate to any land of which the person is the owner or the occupier.
3: In a prosecution for an offence against this section, it is not necessary to prove that the defendant intended to commit the offence.
4: Section 73
63: Offence to do certain things without authorisation
1: A person who contravenes any of paragraphs (a) to (c) section 13
a: in the case of an individual, to a fine not exceeding $100,000; or
b: in the case of a person or an organisation other than an individual, to a fine not exceeding $500,000.
2: In a prosecution for an offence against this section, it is not necessary to prove that the defendant intended to commit the offence.
3: Section 73
64: Offence to provide false or misleading information
1: A person commits an offence who provides false or misleading information in any—
a: application for an authorisation or a renewal of an authorisation; or
b: radiation safety plan submitted to the Director.
2: A person who commits an offence under this section is liable on conviction,—
a: in the case of an individual, to a fine not exceeding $50,000; or
b: in the case of a person or an organisation other than an individual, to a fine not exceeding $250,000.
3: In a prosecution for an offence against this section, it is not necessary to prove that the defendant intended to commit the offence.
4: Section 73
65: Duties of persons who hold authorisations
1: A holder of a source licence commits an offence who fails to comply with section 20
2: A person who uses a radiation source (whether as a holder of a use licence or in accordance with section 21(4)﻿(a) or (b) section 23
3: A consent holder commits an offence who fails to comply with section 25
4: A person who commits an offence against any of subsections (1) to (3)
a: in the case of an individual, to a fine not exceeding $50,000; or
b: in the case of a person or an organisation other than an individual, to a fine not exceeding $250,000.
5: In a prosecution for an offence against this section, it is not necessary to prove that the defendant intended to commit the offence.
6: Section 73
66: Offences relating to register
1: A person who contravenes section 31
a: in the case of an individual, to a fine not exceeding $20,000; or
b: in the case of a person or an organisation other than an individual, to a fine not exceeding $100,000.
2: In a prosecution for an offence against this section, it is not necessary to prove that the defendant intended to commit the offence.
3: Section 73
67: Offence relating to record keeping
1: A person who contravenes section 35
a: in the case of an individual, to a fine not exceeding $20,000; or
b: in the case of a person or an organisation other than an individual, to a fine not exceeding $100,000.
2: In a prosecution for an offence against this section, it is not necessary to prove that the defendant intended to commit the offence.
3: Section 73
68: Offence to refuse entry
A person who refuses an enforcement officer's request for entry under section 37
a: in the case of an individual, to a fine not exceeding $50,000; or
b: in the case of a person or an organisation other than an individual, to a fine not exceeding $250,000.
69: Offence not to answer questions or provide requested information
1: A person commits an offence who,—
a: in response to a question by an enforcement officer under section 40
b: in response to a request under section 41
c: alters, conceals, or destroys a document or information, contrary to section 35(1) and (2)
2: A person who commits an offence against this section is liable on conviction,—
a: in the case of an individual, to a fine not exceeding $50,000; or
b: in the case of a person or an organisation other than an individual, to a fine not exceeding $250,000.
70: Offence to obstruct, etc, enforcement officers
1: A person commits an offence who obstructs, hinders, resists, or deceives an enforcement officer in the exercise or performance by that officer of—
a: any power or function under section 57
b: any other power or function under this Act.
2: A person who commits an offence against subsection (1)﻿(a)
a: in the case of an individual, to a fine not exceeding $100,000; or
b: in the case of a person or an organisation other than an individual, to a fine not exceeding $500,000.
3: A person who commits an offence against subsection (1)﻿(b)
a: in the case of an individual, to a fine not exceeding $50,000; or
b: in the case of a person or an organisation other than an individual, to a fine not exceeding $250,000.
4: In a prosecution for an offence against this section, it is not necessary to prove that the defendant intended to commit the offence.
5: Section 73
71: Offence not to comply with requirement of enforcement officer in emergency
1: A person who contravenes section 57(5)
a: in the case of an individual, to a fine not exceeding $100,000; or
b: in the case of a person or an organisation other than an individual, to a fine not exceeding $500,000.
2: In a prosecution for an offence against this section, it is not necessary to prove that the defendant intended to commit the offence.
3: Section 73
72: Offence not to comply with compliance order
1: A person who does not comply with a compliance order commits an offence and is liable on conviction,—
a: in the case of an individual, to a fine not exceeding $50,000; or
b: in the case of a person or an organisation other than an individual, to a fine not exceeding $250,000.
2: If the Director takes remedial action because a person has not complied with a compliance order, the Director may recover the costs of the remedial action from the person.
3: In this section, remedial action
4: In a prosecution for an offence against this section, it is not necessary to prove that the defendant intended to commit the offence.
5: Section 73
73: Defence in prosecution for strict liability offence
1: This section applies in a prosecution for an offence against any of sections 62 to 67 70 to 72
2: The defendant has a defence if the defendant proves that—
a: the commission of the offence was due to—
i: an act or omission of another person; or
ii: an accident; or
iii: some other cause outside the defendant's control; and
b: the defendant took all reasonable steps to avoid the commission of the offence or offences of the same kind.
74: Liability of body corporate, principal, or individual
1: This section applies when—
a: a body corporate is charged with an offence against this Act for an act or omission of a director, an employee, or an agent:
b: a principal is charged with an offence against this Act for an act or omission of an agent:
c: an individual is charged with an offence against this Act for an act or omission of an employee or agent.
2: The act or omission under subsection (1)
3: In this section, agent
75: Court may order person to mitigate or remedy adverse effects
If a person is convicted of an offence under a provision of this subpart, the court may, instead of or in addition to imposing a fine under that provision, order the person to mitigate or remedy, or pay the costs of mitigating or remedying, any adverse effects on people or the environment that—
a: were caused by or on behalf of the person; or
b: relate to any land of which the person is the owner or the occupier.
4: Director for Radiation Safety
76: Appointment of Director for Radiation Safety
1: There must be a Director for Radiation Safety.
2: The Director-General must appoint a person as Director after being satisfied that the person has the appropriate experience and expertise to perform the functions and duties and exercise the powers of the Director.
3: The person who is appointed Director must be an existing employee of the Ministry or be appointed as an employee of the Ministry.
77: Functions, duties, and powers of Director
1: The functions, duties, and powers of the Director are those conferred or imposed by this Act or any other enactment.
2: A function of the Director is to facilitate New Zealand's compliance with its international obligations, including providing assistance to international inspectors.
3: In performing his or her functions or duties and in exercising his or her powers, the Director—
a: must act independently of the Director-General; but
b: is subject to any general policy directions given by the Minister that—
i: affect radiation safety; and
ii: are not inconsistent with this Act, regulations, or the codes of practice.
4: The Director is accountable to the Director-General for the performance of his or her functions and duties and the exercise of his or her powers.
5: The Director must have effective arrangements in place to avoid or manage any conflicts of interest that may arise in the performance of his or her functions and duties and the exercise of his or her powers.
6: The Director must, after making any decision on an authorisation,—
a: give notice of the decision to any authorities or agencies or any representative of those authorities or agencies that, in the Director's opinion, ought to be notified and are likely to have an interest in the subject matter of the decision; and
b: if the Director thinks appropriate, include in the notice the reasons for the decision.
78: Minister may authorise Director to approve authorisations relating to nuclear material
The Minister may, in writing, authorise the Director to approve a source licence, use licence, or consent, or any class of source licence, use licence, or consent, that relates to a specified type or quantity of nuclear material.
79: Delegation of powers, functions, or duties of Director
1: The Director may delegate to any person any of his or her functions, duties, or powers other than the general power to delegate or a power granted under section 78
2: A delegation under subsection (1)
a: may be made subject to any conditions that the Director thinks appropriate:
b: may be made generally or in any particular case:
c: does not affect or prevent the performance of any function or duty, or the exercise of any power, by the Director:
d: does not affect the responsibility of the Director for the actions of any delegate acting under the delegation.
3: A person who is delegated any function, duty, or power under subsection (1)
4: Every person purporting to act under any delegation under subsection (1)
a: is, in the absence of proof to the contrary, presumed to be acting in accordance with the terms of the delegation; and
b: must produce evidence of his or her authority to do so, if reasonably requested to do so.
5: A delegation under subsection (1)
a: written notice to the delegate; or
b: any other method provided for in the delegation.
5: Radiation Safety Advisory Council
80: Radiation Safety Advisory Council
1: This section establishes the Radiation Safety Advisory Council.
2: The Council is the same organisation that immediately before the commencement of this Act was known as the Radiation Protection Advisory Council.
3: The members of the Council are appointed by the Minister.
4: In appointing members to the Council, the Minister must, subject to subsection (5)
a: at least 2 members who, in the Minister's opinion, have appropriate knowledge, expertise, or interest in radiation and nuclear safety; and
b: at least 2 members who, in the Minister's opinion, have appropriate knowledge and experience in the use of radiation and radiation sources; and
c: at least 1 lay member.
5: Despite subsection (4)
6: The Director-General and the Director must not be members of the Council.
7: Each member of the Council is appointed on any terms and conditions (including terms and conditions as to remuneration and travelling allowances and expenses) that the Minister determines by written notice to the member.
8: A person, other than the Director-General or the Director, who was a member of the Radiation Protection Advisory Council immediately before the commencement of this Act remains in office until the expiry of the person's term of office.
81: Functions of Council
The functions of the Council are to—
a: provide advice to the Director and the Minister on general matters relating to or affecting radiation safety and standards relating to radiation safety; and
b: advise and make recommendations to—
i: the Minister on the exercise of the Minister's powers under this Act:
ii: the Director on the adoption of recommendations, policies, codes of practice, and standards relating to radiation safety:
iii: the Director in respect of authorisations referred to it by the Director; and
c: provide advice as requested on any matter relating to radiation safety referred to it by the Minister, the Director-General, or the Director.
82: Advisory and technical committees
1: The Council may, as it thinks fit, appoint advisory or technical committees to advise it on any matters within the scope of the Council's functions that are referred to the committees by the Council.
2: The Council may appoint any person it thinks fit to be a member of a committee.
3: Every committee may regulate its own procedure, subject to any direction from the Council.
83: Other matters
1: The Council may, subject to this Act and regulations, regulate its procedure in any manner it thinks fit.
2: Schedule 4
84: Consultation
The Council may, in carrying out any of its functions, consult any person or body it considers appropriate.
85: Annual report
1: The Council must, at least once each year, deliver to the Minister a report setting out its advice on the matters referred to in section 81(a) and (b)
2: As soon as practicable after receiving a report under subsection (1)
6: Codes of practice and regulations
Codes of practice
86: Codes of practice
1: The Director may
a: a person who deals with a radiation source must comply with in order to comply with the fundamental requirements; and
b: are appropriate to the level of risk posed by—
i: the radiation source; and
ii: the use of the radiation source.
2: Before issuing a code of practice, the Director must consult any person who the Director reasonably considers is likely to be affected by the proposed code.
3: The Director may exempt a person from a provision in a code of practice if satisfied that—
a: it is not practicable in the circumstances for the person to comply with the provision; and
b: compliance with the fundamental requirement to which the provision relates can be achieved in another way.
4: The Director may impose conditions on any exemptions granted under subsection (3)
5: A person who is granted an exemption must comply with any of the conditions of the exemption.
6: A code of practice under this section is secondary legislation ( see Part 3 1996 No 30 ss 78(1) 117(3) ss 22 23 The following table is small in size and has 3 columns that are grouped under the heading Legislation Act 2019 requirements for secondary legislation made under this section. Legislation Act 2019 requirements for secondary legislation made under this section Publication The maker must: LA19 ss 73 74(1)﻿(a) cl 14 •	publish it in the Gazette •	make it available on a website maintained by, or on behalf of, the Director •	if it is amended, make an up-to-date version of it available on that website Presentation The Minister must present it to the House of Representatives LA19 s 114 cl 32(1)﻿(a) Disallowance It may be disallowed by the House of Representatives LA19 ss 115 116 This note is not part of the Act. Section 86(1) amended 28 October 2021 section 3 Secondary Legislation Act 2021 Section 86(6) replaced 28 October 2021 section 3 Secondary Legislation Act 2021
87: Content of codes of practice
1: A code of practice must state—
a: the date on which it comes into force; and
b: the fundamental requirement to which it relates; and
c: the scope of the code of practice.
2: A code of practice must not contain a provision that is inconsistent with this Act. 2004 No 72 s 25
88: Codes of practice to be available on Internet site
Section 88 repealed 28 October 2021 regulation 81 Legislation Act (Amendments to Legislation) Regulations 2021
89: Director may amend or revoke codes of practice
1: The Director may
2: The Director must consult any person who the Director reasonably considers is likely to be affected by the proposed amendment or revocation.
3: An amendment or a revocation of a code of practice does not have retrospective effect.
4: An amendment to, or revocation of, a code of practice under this section is secondary legislation ( see Part 3 2004 No 72 s 24 The following table is small in size and has 3 columns that are grouped under the heading Legislation Act 2019 requirements for secondary legislation made under this section. Legislation Act 2019 requirements for secondary legislation made under this section Publication The maker must: LA19 ss 73 74(1)﻿(a) cl 14 •	publish it in the Gazette •	make it available on a website maintained by, or on behalf of, the Director •	if it is amended, make an up-to-date version of it available on that website Presentation The Minister must present it to the House of Representatives LA19 s 114 cl 32(1)﻿(a) Disallowance It may be disallowed by the House of Representatives LA19 ss 115 116 This note is not part of the Act. Section 89(1) amended 28 October 2021 section 3 Secondary Legislation Act 2021 Section 89(4) inserted 28 October 2021 section 3 Secondary Legislation Act 2021
90: Codes of practice must be reviewed
The Director must—
a: review each code of practice at least once every 5 years; and
b: before reviewing a code of practice, consult any person who the Director reasonably considers is likely to be affected by the review. Regulations
91: Regulations
1: The Governor-General may, by Order in Council, make regulations for all or any of the following purposes:
a: providing for, subject to subsection (4) subpart 2 3
i: the operation of the armed forces; or
ii: any radiation source temporarily entering New Zealand by ship or aircraft; or
iii: any radiation source that,—
A: in all reasonably foreseeable circumstances, is likely to result in an effective dose of less than 10 microsieverts per year; or
B: in low-probability scenarios, is likely to result in an effective dose of less than 1 millisievert per year; or
iv: any radiation source that, if regulated under this Act, is unlikely to achieve a worthwhile reduction in individual doses or health risks:
b: imposing conditions on any exemptions provided for under paragraph (a)
c: prescribing, in accordance with subsection (2)
d: prescribing requirements relating to the duties of source licence holders in incidents involving unintended loss of, release of, or exposure to any radiation source:
e: prescribing requirements for radiation safety plans:
f: prescribing requirements relating to radiation emergencies:
g: prescribing information that must be included in—
i: an application for a source licence, use licence, or consent; and
ii: an application for a renewal of a source licence, use licence, or consent:
h: authorising, for the purpose of section 16(a) paragraph (i)
i: prescribing, for the purpose of section 16(a) paragraph (h)
j: prescribing the manner in which radiation sources must be marked or labelled:
k: prescribing requirements for signage of radiation sources:
l: prescribing maximum periods for which authorisations may be granted, and different periods may be prescribed for—
i: different radiation sources:
ii: different purposes:
m: prescribing controls to avoid or mitigate adverse effects on the environment caused by a radiation source:
n: prescribing controls to avoid or mitigate illness or injury to people or damage to the environment or chattels caused by a radiation source:
o: prohibiting or restricting the use of a radiation source:
p: specifying unsealed radioactive materials that must be registered under section 31
q: prescribing requirements for registration of a controlled radiation source.
2: A regulation under subsection (1)﻿(c)
3: For the purpose of subsection (1)﻿(q)
4: No regulations may be made under subsection (1)﻿(a)
5: A regulation authorising a person under subsection (1)﻿(h)
6: Regulations under this section are secondary legislation ( see Part 3 The following table is small in size and has 3 columns that are grouped under the heading Legislation Act 2019 requirements for secondary legislation made under this section. Legislation Act 2019 requirements for secondary legislation made under this section Publication PCO must publish it on the legislation website and notify it in the Gazette LA19 s 69(1)﻿(c) Presentation The Minister must present it to the House of Representatives LA19 s 114 cl 32(1)﻿(a) Disallowance It may be disallowed by the House of Representatives LA19 ss 115 116 This note is not part of the Act. Section 91(6) inserted 28 October 2021 section 3 Secondary Legislation Act 2021
92: Regulations relating to fees
1: The Governor-General may, on the recommendation of the Minister, by Order in Council, make regulations prescribing—
a: the fees payable by a person applying for an authorisation or renewal of an authorisation:
b: the method by which the fees are to be calculated:
c: exemptions from or refunds of the whole or any part of any fee.
2: Regulations made under subsection (1)
a: prescribe different fees or methods of calculation of fees in respect of different classes or types of authorisation, or on the basis of the level of risk posed by a radiation source or on any other differential basis:
b: enable, in accordance with subsections (3) to (5)
3: Before recommending any regulations that enable cost recovery under subsection (2)﻿(b)
a: equity, in that funding for a particular function, power, or service (or a particular class of function, power, or service) should generally, and to the extent practicable, be sourced from the users or beneficiaries of the relevant functions, powers, or services at a level commensurate with their use of or benefit from the function, power, or service:
b: efficiency, in that the allocation of costs should generally be allocated and recovered in order to ensure that maximum benefits are delivered at minimum cost:
c: justifiability, in that costs should generally be recovered to meet only the actual and reasonable costs (including indirect costs) of the provision of or exercise of the relevant function, power, or service:
d: transparency, in that costs should generally be identified, and allocated as closely as practicable to, tangible service provision in the recovery period in which the service is provided:
e: ease of administration, in that the costs of collection should generally be kept as low as possible.
4: Costs should not be recovered under subsection (2)﻿(b)
a: there has been appropriate consultation with persons or organisations that the Minister considers representative of the interests of persons likely to be substantially affected by the exercise of the power; and
b: the persons involved have been given sufficient time and information to make an informed contribution.
5: Subsection (4)
6: A failure to comply with subsection (4)
7: Regulations under this section are secondary legislation ( see Part 3 The following table is small in size and has 3 columns that are grouped under the heading Legislation Act 2019 requirements for secondary legislation made under this section. Legislation Act 2019 requirements for secondary legislation made under this section Publication PCO must publish it on the legislation website and notify it in the Gazette LA19 s 69(1)﻿(c) Presentation The Minister must present it to the House of Representatives LA19 s 114 cl 32(1)﻿(a) Disallowance It may be disallowed by the House of Representatives LA19 ss 115 116 This note is not part of the Act. Section 92(7) inserted 28 October 2021 section 3 Secondary Legislation Act 2021
93: Other regulations
1: The Governor-General may, by Order in Council, make regulations for all or any of the following purposes:
a: providing for the keeping of records, the inspection of those records, and the making of returns of entries in those records in connection with a radiation source:
b: specifying details that must be included in warrants of appointment for enforcement officers:
c: prescribing matters that must be specified in any form that is required for the purposes of this Act or a particular provision of this Act:
d: prescribing the content of a compliance order:
e: prescribing the manner or form in which any order, document, or other matter under this Act is to be served:
f: regulating the procedure of the Council:
g: providing for any other matters contemplated by or necessary for giving full effect to this Act and for its due administration.
2: Regulations under this section are secondary legislation ( see Part 3 The following table is small in size and has 3 columns that are grouped under the heading Legislation Act 2019 requirements for secondary legislation made under this section. Legislation Act 2019 requirements for secondary legislation made under this section Publication PCO must publish it on the legislation website and notify it in the Gazette LA19 s 69(1)﻿(c) Presentation The Minister must present it to the House of Representatives LA19 s 114 cl 32(1)﻿(a) Disallowance It may be disallowed by the House of Representatives LA19 ss 115 116 This note is not part of the Act. Section 93(2) inserted 28 October 2021 section 3 Secondary Legislation Act 2021
94: Order in Council amending Schedules 2 and 3
1: The Governor-General may, by Order in Council, on the recommendation of the Minister made after complying with this section, amend Schedule 2 3
2: Without limiting the generality of subsection (1) Schedule 2
a: replace the level of activity concentration listed for that material in the second column of that schedule; or
b: replace the level of activity listed for that material in the third column of that schedule.
3: Before making any recommendation under this section, the Minister must—
a: consult any person or organisation that the Minister considers has an interest in, or will be representative of the interests of people likely to be substantially affected by, the proposed order; and
b: be satisfied that the proposed order is necessary in order to comply with any applicable requirements, guidelines, or standards of the IAEA, or is consistent with those requirements, guidelines, or standards; and
c: be satisfied that the proposed order is necessary for the purpose of protecting the health or safety of people, or protecting the environment, from the harmful effects of ionising radiation.
4: An order under this section is secondary legislation ( see Part 3 The following table is small in size and has 3 columns that are grouped under the heading Legislation Act 2019 requirements for secondary legislation made under this section. Legislation Act 2019 requirements for secondary legislation made under this section Publication PCO must publish it on the legislation website and notify it in the Gazette LA19 s 69(1)﻿(c) Presentation The Minister must present it to the House of Representatives LA19 s 114 cl 32(1)﻿(a) Disallowance It may be disallowed by the House of Representatives LA19 ss 115 116 This note is not part of the Act. Section 94(4) inserted 28 October 2021 section 3 Secondary Legislation Act 2021
7: Other matters
95: Transitional, savings, and related provisions
The transitional, savings, and related provisions set out in Schedule 1 Repeal and revocations
96: Radiation Protection Act 1965 repealed
The Radiation Protection Act 1965 2017-03-07 Radiation Protection Act 1965
97: Revocations
The following legislative instruments are revoked:
a: Radiation Protection Act Commencement Order 1973
b: Radiation Protection (Appeals) Regulations 1974
c: Radiation Protection Regulations 1982 2017-03-07 Radiation Protection Act Commencement Order 1973 Radiation Protection (Appeals) Regulations 1974 Radiation Protection Regulations 1982 Amendments to Terrorism Suppression Act 2002
98: Amendments to Terrorism Suppression Act 2002
1: This section amends the Terrorism Suppression Act 2002
2: In section 4(1) radioactive material radioactive material
3: After section 13C(1)﻿(a)
aa: without lawful authority, carries, sends, transports, or otherwise moves nuclear material into or out of New Zealand; or
4: Replace section 13E(1)﻿(d)
d: unlawfully and intentionally demands by threat, in circumstances that indicate the credibility of the threat, or by use of force or by any other form of intimidation, any radioactive material, radioactive device, or nuclear facility; or 2016-03-08 Terrorism Suppression Act 2002 See s 2(2) for the date Consequential amendments to enactments
99: Consequential amendments
Amend the enactments specified in Schedule 5 2017-03-07 Carriage of Goods Act 1979 Environment Act 1986 Exclusive Economic Zone and Continental Shelf (Environmental Effects) Act 2012 Fire Service Act 1975 Health Practitioners Competence Assurance Act 2003 Maritime Transport Act 1994 Medicines Act 1981 Official Information Act 1982 Search and Surveillance Act 2012 Trans-Tasman Mutual Recognition Act 1997 Accident Compensation (Liability to Pay or Contribute to Cost of Treatment) Regulations 2003