IRMER - Annual Refresher
Course Description

Introduction
This course provides an annual refresher on the Ionising Radiation (Medical Exposure) Regulations (IRMER) for dental professionals. It is designed for those involved in taking or processing radiographs to ensure compliance with UK radiation safety laws. The course focuses on patient safety, regulatory compliance, and the roles of dental staff in radiography.

Ionising Radiation
Ionising radiation, such as X-rays, has the potential to cause harm by creating free radicals in the body. This section covers the basics of ionising radiation, its effects on biological tissues, and the importance of minimising exposure during dental radiography.

Radiological Justification
Justification is a key principle in radiography, ensuring that every X-ray taken benefits the patient by aiding diagnosis or treatment. This section outlines the risk-benefit analysis required before taking radiographs and the guidelines for proper radiological justification.

Optimisation - ALARP
The ALARP principle (As Low As Reasonably Practicable) ensures that the radiation dose is kept to a minimum while still obtaining a useful image. This section explains how to optimise X-ray equipment settings and techniques to reduce patient exposure.

X-ray Set Controls
Learn how kilovoltage, current, and exposure time affect the radiation dose and image quality in dental radiographs. This section covers the adjustments required to balance penetrating power and minimise radiation risks for patients.

Filtration and Collimation
Proper use of filtration and collimation reduces patient exposure by limiting the radiation beam to the area of interest. This section explains the role of aluminium filtration and rectangular collimation in dental radiography.

Sensors and Films
Digital sensors generally require lower radiation doses than traditional film. This section looks at the advantages of digital imaging and provides recommendations for using fast-speed films to reduce exposure in non-digital setups.

Operator Technique
Even with optimal equipment, operator technique is very important. This section highlights common errors in positioning, exposure selection, and patient handling, and how to avoid these mistakes to ensure safe and effective radiographs.

Quality Assurance
A robust quality assurance programme is essential to maintain the safety and performance of X-ray equipment. This section covers routine performance checks, Diagnostic Reference Levels (DRLs), and regular audits to ensure compliance with radiation protection standards.

Quality Monitoring
Radiographs should be regularly assessed for quality, and any substandard images should be recorded and reviewed. This section provides guidelines on quality grading, periodic analysis, and clinical audits to ensure consistent radiograph quality.

Legal Aspects
The UK’s IRR 2017 and IR(ME)R 2017 regulations govern X-ray safety for workers and patients. This section outlines the legal requirements for radiation protection, including risk assessments, dose limitations, and the roles of Radiation Protection Advisors and Supervisors.

Roles and Responsibilities
The IRMER regulations assign specific roles such as Employer, Referrer, Practitioner, and Operator. This section explains the responsibilities of each role in ensuring compliance with radiation protection standards in dental practices.

Course Completion
Participants will complete a feedback survey, take a multiple-choice exam, and receive a GDC-compliant CPD certificate. The course ensures that dental professionals stay updated on essential radiation protection protocols and legal obligations.