Who is responsible for ensuring that radiography legislation is properly implemented in a dental practice?

The responsibility for ensuring that radiography legislation is properly implemented in a dental practice falls on the legal person. The legal person is typically a designated individual who holds the accountability for the practice’s compliance with legal and regulatory frameworks, including those governing radiography. This person may be the principal dentist or a practice owner/manager, ensuring that all staff adhere to relevant safety standards and legal requirements.

The legal person must ensure that proper procedures are in place regarding the use of radiological equipment, such as regular safety checks, adequate training for staff involved in taking radiographs, and obtaining appropriate consent from patients. Their role includes establishing protocols that align with national guidelines and legislation, promoting a culture of safety, and ensuring that the practice minimizes risks associated with radiation exposure.

In contrast, other roles, while important, do not carry the same overarching legal responsibility for compliance. A radiographer typically handles the operational aspects of imaging but may not be involved in the broader compliance obligations. A dental nurse provides support and may assist in managing radiographical procedures, but they are not solely responsible for legal adherence. The practice manager plays a vital role in the overall administration of the dental practice but also may not hold the ultimate legal responsibility that the legal person does.