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Report of discussion at IRPA 10 Congress, Hiroshima, 14-19 May 2000 Possible development of a Code of Ethics An important topic not explicitly referred to in the IRPA constitution but identified by the Societies and discussed during the Forum is the possible Development of a Code of Ethics to aid Societies in maintaining an ethical level of professional conduct. Standards and regulations based on consensus information developed by international bodies provide the conceptual framework for protection of man and his environment. Individual responsibility However it is the individual radiation safety specialist who is directly responsible for interpreting and applying this framework to real situations. This responsibility for the safety of persons exposed to radiation requires the highest levels of ethical conduct by those entrusted with it. Ethical behaviour enhances effectiveness Ethical behaviour, founded on honesty, integrity and openness enhances the effectiveness of the professional entrusted with radiation safety. Discussion paper Based on a first review of existing Codes of Ethics formulated by some of the IRPA Associate Societies the Executive Council put forward in the discussion paper a few principles intended to aid Societies in maintaining an ethical level of professional conduct. Consensus Need for Codes A clear consensus emerged during the Forum that maintaining a correct application of professional practice is not sufficient and that there is a need to develop formalised Codes of Ethics or Codes of Conduct. Image and litigation Such codes are seen as important for the image of the profession especially in the public mind as well as in the context of litigious situations when the responsibility of professionals is at stake. IRPA to develop a set of principles In conclusion all participants agreed on the need for IRPA to develop a set of principles that could serve as Code of Ethics for IRPA societies which they could adapt to their own specific situations and to set up the necessary requirements for their members. Action Practically it was decided to review all relevant existing codes and to establish a mechanism by which a Code of Ethic could be adopted by Societies at the IRPA 11 Congress. Postreport note: This forum is where the review will be carried out. Source: IRPA web site top of page Page last updated: 6 May 2001 Copyright © International Radiation Protection Association 2001