AERB Certification – Safe & Legal Use of Radiation Equipment

Radiation equipment such as X-ray machines, CT scanners, dental X-rays, industrial gauges, and radiotherapy units cannot be installed or operated in India without approval from the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB). This certification ensures that the equipment, facility layout, and operating procedures follow strict safety standards designed to protect patients, workers, and
the public from harmful radiation exposure.

Whether a facility is setting up a diagnostic center, importing equipment, or upgrading machinery, understanding AERB Certification is essential for smooth and lawful operations. The following information offers a complete, easy-to-understand guide for all users.

What is AERB Certification?

AERB Certification is the official authorization granted by the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board to ensure that radiation-emitting equipment is installed, used, and maintained safely. It verifies that a facility meets the required radiation shielding norms, employs trained personnel, and follows standardized safety procedures. This certification is not just a regulatory formality—it is a critical
safeguard to prevent radiation misuse, overexposure, and operational hazards. Without AERB approval, operating radiation equipment is illegal and may pose serious health and legal risks.

Who Needs AERB Certification?

AERB approval is mandatory for anyone who manufactures, imports, installs, operates, or maintains radiation-emitting equipment. This includes:

• Medical facilities such as hospitals, diagnostic centers, dental clinics, and cancer treatment units using X-ray, CT, fluoroscopy, mammography, or radiotherapy machines.
• Industrial units using nuclear gauges, gamma radiography equipment, density & level measurement devices, or NDT equipment.
• Manufacturers, suppliers, and importers who deal with radiation devices must also obtain approval before selling or installing such equipment.
• Research laboratories and academic institutions that utilize radioactive sources or highintensity radiation equipment.

If an organization uses radiation in any form, AERB Certification becomes a legal and safety requirement.

Types of Approvals Under AERB

The Atomic Energy Regulatory Board issues different types of approvals depending on the equipment and level of radiation risk:

1. Registration
For low-risk, low-radiation equipment such as dental X-rays and basic diagnostic units.
2. Licensing
Required for high-radiation equipment like CT scanners, radiotherapy units, and industrial radiography systems.
3. Type Approval
Mandatory for manufacturers and importers to confirm that equipment design follows AERB’s safety specifications.
4. Site/Facility Layout Approval
Given before installation to verify shielding, wall thickness, safety zones, and infrastructure suitability.
5. Radiation Safety Officer (RSO) Approval
Facilities must have an AERB-approved RSO to oversee safe radiation practices. Each approval ensures that the equipment and facility meet stringent national safety standards.

Documents Required for AERB Certification

To ensure smooth approval, facilities must prepare several technical and administrative documents.
These typically include:

• Facility layout drawings with radiation shielding details
• Equipment purchase invoice and type-approval certificate
• Radiation Safety Officer qualification and training proofs
• Installation and commissioning reports
• Quality assurance (QA) test results
• Equipment performance and safety compliance records
• Applicant identity and address proof
• Site photographs and facility information

Accurate documentation reduces delays and helps maintain regulatory compliance.

AERB Certification Process Explained

The AERB approval process is structured and transparent. It involves:
1. Facility Assessment
Understanding equipment requirements, site layout, shielding needs, and personnel qualifications.
2. eLORA Portal Registration
The applicant registers on the online AERB eLORA platform, where all applications and approvals
are handled.
3. Document Upload & Submission
Technical documents, facility designs, and safety reports are uploaded for review.
4. AERB Verification
AERB examines the application, may ask for clarifications, or request additional documents.
5. Inspection (If Required)
Certain equipment or facilities may undergo physical inspection or remote verification.
6. Approval Issuance
Once the facility meets all safety requirements, AERB issues the certification and allows installation
or operation.

This process ensures proper radiation safety and regulatory compliance at every stage.

Why AERB Certification Is Important

AERB Certification is essential for maintaining safe operations across medical and industrial environments. It ensures:

• Safe exposure limits for patients and radiation workers
• Proper shielding in equipment rooms
• Compliance with national safety standards
• Legal authorization to operate radiation-emitting devices
• Reduced risk of radiation accidents or equipment misuse

Certification demonstrates responsible use of radiation technology and establishes trust in the facility’s safety practices.

Industries That Require AERB Approval

AERB regulations apply to a wide range of sectors, including:

• Healthcare & diagnostics
• Cancer treatment & radiotherapy centers
• Industrial radiography & NDT testing
• Petrochemical, steel, cement & process industries
• Research laboratories & universities
• Equipment manufacturing, importing, and servicing companies

Any organization involved in radiation equipment usage must meet AERB norms

Validity & Renewal of AERB Certification

AERB approvals are valid for a fixed duration depending on the equipment type. After expiry, facilities must apply for renewal to maintain continuous compliance. Renewal typically requires updated documents, recent QA test reports, and evidence that safety practices are being followed. It is advisable to initiate the renewal process before the expiry date to avoid operational delays or
penalties.

Consequences of Operating Without AERB Certification

Running radiation equipment without AERB approval can lead to:

• Sealing or confiscation of equipment
• Heavy penalties under the Atomic Energy Act
• Suspension or closure of facility operations
• Legal proceedings and compliance warnings
• Increased risk of radiation exposure incidents

Ensuring valid certification protects both the facility and public health.

Why Choose PSR Compliance for AERB Certification

• Expert guidance for all types of AERB approvals
• Accurate documentation to avoid delays or rejection
• Complete support for eLORA registration and filing
• Assistance with site layout, shielding, and safety compliance
• Smooth, fast, and transparent certification process
• Experience handling medical and industrial radiation equipment