Greek Atomic Energy Commission Research Articles

Sustainable Development Assessment of Organizations through Quantitative Modelling

The “United Nations (UN) 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development” is calling on businesses to apply their creativity and innovation initiatives to tackle sustainable development challenges. In this respect, this study intends to propose a sustainability model for business use. The proposed model will facilitate businesses in selecting the appropriate Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) indicators, highlight potential sustainability “gaps” and emphasize the related best practices. For the development of the sustainability model, we used some basic economic principles (e.g., cost minimization, risk theory, etc.), a sustainability survey and a statistical study based on EU data. As a result, a quantitative model for the sustainable development assessment of organizations to formulate appropriate decision-making policies is proposed. The model was tested in a real-world context as a case study that was carried out at the Greek Atomic Energy Commission.

Public exposure to artificial optical radiation in the aesthetics and the entertainment sector in Greece. Risk management actions.

Safety issues are raised from the use of low- and high-power optical radiation sources, both laser and non-laser, by non-experts for aesthetic and entertainment purposes. The Greek Atomic Energy Commission relied on the ISO 31000:2018 framework to manage the public exposure risk to such cases. Risk was evaluated as (1) intolerable for lasers and intense pulsed light sources at aesthetic procedures and in the case of laser pointers, (2) severe for lasers at laser shows and (3) moderate for light-emitting diodes (LEDs) at aesthetic procedures, home-use intense pulsed light sources/LEDs and laser/LED projectors. Operators' training, public awareness campaigns, intensive market surveillance actions and the enhancement of the regulatory framework have been proposed as risk treatment/control measures and have been prioritised in this order, according to their effectiveness in reducing the exposure risk and their urgency of implementation. The Greek Atomic Energy Commission developed public awareness campaigns regarding exposure safety to laser and non-laser light sources at aesthetic procedures and the use of laser pointers.

Extreme output power emitted by commercial laser pointers in Greece: A solely local or a global issue?

Although several countries have enacted legislation that prohibits the commercial distribution of laser pointers, high-power laser pointers are abundantly available on the market. The Greek Atomic Energy Commission (EEAE) investigated the compliance of laser pointers with the laser radiation safety limits in order to apply risk management actions in Greece. Compliance was assessed based on the laser pointer labeled data and in-house optical measurements. Laser pointers were purchased randomly from domestic physical marketplaces. Output power measurements revealed the risk of overexposure compared to the lasers' radiation safety limit values. Measured values also exceeded the output power values claimed on the laser pointer labels; hence, they may pose an unexpected more severe hazard than stated. Spectral analysis revealed an additional emission wavelength by the green laser pointers. All the inspected laser pointers declared “compliance with 21 CFR” and were labeled according to the U.S. 21 CFR 1040.1, although all consumer products available on the Greek market should comply with the relevant EU Directives, harmonized standards, and national legislation. These local findings adhere to a global issue—the unambiguous exposure of nonexpert users to high-power laser pointers that should not be commercially available. Overexposure to laser pointer radiation suppresses national borders as markets are not locally constrained, and laser technology continues to advance. The introduction of a universal laser safety language and a universal regulatory framework for laser pointers might facilitate product safety, international trade, and users' safety. EEAE runs social media campaigns to raise public awareness of laser pointer risks, using specifically designed infographics.

Occupational electromagnetic spectrum hazards and the significance of artificial optical radiation: country report for Greece.

Background:The electromagnetic spectrum spans over an enormous range from 0 up to more than 1020 Hz in the deep ionizing region, significant exposures exist in specific occupational environments. Between the ionizing and the electromagnetic fields (EMF) part of the spectrum, the ‘optical radiation’ (OR) region has specific properties. Comparative and concise evaluation enables action prioritization.Methods:Following the transposition and implementation periods of the artificial optical radiation (AOR) and EMF European Directives, the Hellenic Ministry of Labour in collaboration with the Greek Atomic Energy Commission (EEAE) and the National Technical University of Athens, conducted thorough occupational exposure investigation in Greece. Using dedicated measuring equipment and procedures, the majority of EMF emitting installations in Greece and also AOR emitting installations including arc welding, lasers and PC monitors has been assessed.Results:Measurement results from occupational settings reveal that it is the non-coherent metal arc welding AOR that can pose even sub-second overexposures. Rare EMF overexposures are manageable and EMF concern is not justified. Maintenance procedures demand proper attention. Preliminary laser safety assessment reveals OHS gaps and potential eye and skin hazards. Blue light exposure from computer monitors is well below safety limits.Conclusions:This electromagnetic spectrum risk assessment conducted in Greece enables the justification of the real occupational hazards, in this sense: i) EMF exposure assessment has to be concentrated to maintenance procedures; ii) AOR measuring setups are challenging and standardized measurement procedures are missing, and iii) AOR overexposures from arc welding pose significant eye and skin hazards.

Remote virtual regulatory inspections of facilities and practices utilising ionising radiation and MRI installations during the Covid-19 pandemic

Covid-19 pandemic imposes crucial social distancing rules and restriction measures; therefore, the access to facilities and sites, in order to perform on-site inspections, became difficult or not feasible. Greek Atomic Energy Commission (EEAE) adopted remote virtual inspections (RVIs) of facilities and practices applying ionising radiation and magnetic resonance imaging installations, in order to continue discharging its regulatory duty of inspection, effectively. This study presents the experience gained and lessons learnt from the implementation of the RVIs and explores the RVIs perception by the stakeholders. Moreover, the effectiveness and the capability of RVIs to identify ‘findings’, is assessed by comparing the on-site and the remote inspections outcomes. The presented study showed that RVIs could not replace the on-site inspections, entirely; however, they could support and contribute to the inspection activities and program, in certain circumstances. RVIs were proven to be a valuable tool for the inspection of procedures, documents and records as well as the design and operational conditions of the facilities. The performance of remote verification tests and measurements, although feasible, was challenging, due to the technical issues needed to be resolved in advance. The comparison between remote and on-site inspections outcomes showed that both inspection options had similar capability to identify ‘findings’, indicating the validity of the RVIs as an inspection methodology in certain inspection thematic areas. The perception of the RVIs was positive and the added value and usefulness was acknowledged by the inspected facilities’ personnel and the EEAE’s inspectors, although the latter mainly considered RVIs as complementary and supportive to the on-site inspections.

PERFORMANCE OF HANDHELD NAI(TL) SPECTROMETERS AS DOSIMETERS BY LABORATORY AND FIELD DOSE RATE MEASUREMENTS.

In the framework of the IAEA Coordinated Research Project (CRP) J02012 on 'Advancing Radiation Detection Equipment for Detecting Nuclear and Other Radioactive Material Out of Regulatory Control', the properties of two commercial instruments (1) InSpector 1000 analyzer (Canberra), with a 2″×2″ NaI(Tl) scintillator and (2) RIIDEYE M-G3 analyzer (Thermo Scientific), with a 3″×3″ NaI(Tl) scintillator, were evaluated as dosimeters by laboratory and field measurements. In the Ionizing Radiation Calibration Laboratory (IRCL) of the Greek Atomic Energy Commission, the NaI(Tl) spectrometers were tested in order to measure Ambient gamma Dose Equivalent Rate (ADER). The NaI(Tl) scintillators were irradiated in a homogeneous field with 662 keV photons with different ADER values from 0.17 to 100μSv h-1 at 0° incidence (irradiation field perpendicular to the detector's front window) and at 90° incidence. For each irradiation, the measured ADER by the spectrometers and the 'true' ADER values (provided by the IRCL) were compared. In addition, the angular dependence (0-359°) of the ADER response of the spectrometers was studied with a 152Eu source placed at 1, 2 and 3m from the spectrometers. The ADER dependence as function of the distance from the 152Eu source (at 0° incidence) measured by the two detectors was compared with the theoretical one. In the field studies, ADER was measured by the spectrometers at seven locations belonging to the Greek Early Warning System Network (which is based on Reuter-Stokes ionization chambers). These locations have different ADER values ranging from 20 to 120 nSv h-1. In these locations, gamma ADER were also deduced (1) by in situ gamma spectrometry measurements with portable Germanium HPGe detectors and (2) by the Reuter-Stokes ionization chambers (by subtraction of the cosmic radiation). Gamma dose measurements were also performed with the InSpector 1000 and RIIDEYE M-G3 detectors in 25 locations (beaches) of Northern Greece and compared with the ADER values deduced by sand sample analysis with gamma spectroscopy. Beaches with sand are good candidates for such type of measurements since they are commonly flat and in principle the natural radionuclides are homogenously distributed.

Radiological safety and assessment of the performance of X-ray systems in veterinary facilities

This paper concerns an analysis regarding the performance of X-ray equipment as well as the radiological safety in veterinary facilities. Data were collected from 380 X-ray veterinary facilities countrywide during the on-site regulatory inspections carried out by the Greek Atomic Energy Commission. The analysis of the results shows that the majority of the veterinary radiographic systems perform within the acceptable limits; moreover, the design and shielding of X-ray rooms as well as the applied procedures ensure a high level of radiological safety for the practitioners, operators and the members of the public. An issue that requires specific attention in the optimization process for the proper implementation of veterinary radiology practices in terms of radiological safety is the continuous training of the personnel. The above findings and the regulatory experience gained were valuable decision-making elements regarding the type of the regulatory control of veterinary radiology practices in the new radiation protection framework.

The impact of radiation protection training on the radiological safety and the related culture of exposed workers in Greece

The safe use of radiation sources presupposes the engagement of personnel adequately educated and trained on radiation protection and with the necessary safety culture. This is necessary in order to understand their responsibilities and perform their duties in the safest way for themselves, the public and the patients, where appropriate. The Greek Atomic Energy Commission (EEAE) provides education and training on radiation protection to scientists, technical personnel and members of emergency response teams as well as the recognition of the related programs. To fulfil its role, EEAE implements a strategy on education and training in radiation protection through the development of appropriate programs which take into account the national needs, as well as the national capabilities and resources. In this respect, 65 one and two day training seminars were organised in the period 2011–2017 which were attended by 3126 radiation workers (i.e. medical radiology and nuclear medicine technologists, industrial radiographers and outside workers). The present work demonstrates a quantified assessment of the impact of EEAE training activities on particular categories of radiation workers. The study indicates a reduction in Hp(10) values as well as in the corresponding standard deviations of medical radiology technologists, nuclear medicine technologists, and industrial radiographers. A 48% decrease was also observed in the collective dose of medical radiology technologists with cumulative Hp(10) values higher than the investigation level. Moreover, an important improvement of specific safety culture indicators, such as the percentage of non-returned personal dosemeters was noticed and presented.

PROCEDURES TO MEASURE MEAN AMBIENT DOSE EQUIVALENT RATES USING ELECTRET ION CHAMBERS.

The capabilities of electret ion chambers (EICs) to measure mean ambient dose equivalent rates were investigated by performing both laboratory and field studies of their properties. First, EICs were ‘calibrated’ to measure ambient gamma dose equivalent in the Ionizing Calibration Laboratory of the Greek Atomic Energy Commission. The EICs were irradiated with different gamma photon energies and from different angles. Calibration factors were deduced (electret’s voltage drop due to irradiation in terms of ambient dose equivalent). In the field studies, EICs were installed at eight locations belonging to the Greek Early Warning System Network (which is based on Reuter-Stokes ionization chambers) for three periods, averaging 5 months each. In the same locations, in situ gamma spectrometry measurements were performed with portable germanium detectors. Gamma ambient dose equivalent rates were deduced by the in situ gamma spectrometry measurements and by soil sample analysis. The mean daily electret potential drop (in Volts) was compared with the mean daily ambient dose equivalent, measured with a portable HPGe detector and Reuter-Stokes high-pressure ionization chambers. From these measurements, ‘field’ calibration factors (electret’s voltage drop due to gamma radiation in terms of ambient dose equivalent) were deduced and found in very good agreement with the values deduced in Laboratory. The influence of cosmic radiation and the intrinsic voltage loss when performing long-term environmental gamma measurements with EICs, was estimated.

Spatial hedonic models for environmental hazards and health outcomes

ABSTRACT This article examines the relationship between the total cost of services for radioprotection and the health outcomes in Greece with a spatial hedonic model using data from the period 2010 to 2016. We employ spatial analysis in a hedonic price framework to examine the impact of total service cost Nuts 1 level in Greece. We incorporate geographical as well as economic and health personnel effects in order to test for the existence and magnitude of interregional externalities including health-care expenditure, medical capital investment and examinations magnetic resonance imaging. Our findings robustly demonstrate that interregional externalities do matter for the regions of economic linkages implying strong cross-regional spillovers than geographical ones. Furthermore, we isolate the imprint of each service for radioprotection, provided by Greek Atomic Energy Commission, in order to detect the impact of each one in the total cost services. The results support that services for non-ionizing radiation have the strongest impact.

NATIONAL OBSERVATORY OF ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELDS: NATIONAL TELEMETRIC NETWORK FOR THE MEASUREMENT OF HIGH-FREQUENCY ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELDS IN GREECE.

At the end of 2015, the operation of the National Observatory of Electromagnetic Fields (established in 2012) has started. The National Observatory of Electromagnetic Fields is a network of 500 fixed (480 broadband and 20 frequency selective) and 13 mobile (vehicle mounted frequency selective) measurement stations throughout Greece that continuously monitor the electromagnetic field levels from all kinds of antenna stations in the frequency range 100kHz-7GHz. The results of this national monitoring network, which is operated and controlled by the Greek Atomic Energy Commission (EEAE), are presented through an interactive web portal (https://paratiritirioemf.eeae.gr), in which data are constantly updated with the latest station measurements. This paper presents the operational aspects and the measurement results of the first 3 years of operation (2016-2018). The measurement results revealed that all values were well below the reference levels for general public exposure, as defined by the Greek legislation.

Evaluation of Radiofrequency and Extremely Low-Frequency Field Levels at Children's Playground Sites in Greece From 2013 to 2018.

From 2013 to 2018, in-situ measurements of radiofrequency (RF) electromagnetic fields (EMF) and extremely low-frequency (ELF) electric and magnetic fields in 317 existing and under-construction children's playground facilities, in 16 municipalities all over Greece, were carried out by the Greek Atomic Energy Commission (EEAE). These measurements were conducted following legislative framework established in 2009, which requires that compliance with the established exposure limits for EMFs should be verified in playground areas. The results are presented by the value of the electric field (E) and exposure ratio (Λ) for the RF EMF, as well as the value of the electric field (E) and magnetic flux density (B) for the ELF electric and magnetic fields. Statistical analysis tools were applied on measurement data and conclusions have been made, taking into consideration: (i) environment type (urban/suburban), and (ii) vicinity to any transmitting installations. Measurement results correspond to the typical EMF background levels for each environment type. Concerning the environment type, RF EMF, and ELF electric/magnetic field measurements reveal no differentiation between urban and suburban environments. Bioelectromagnetics. 2019;40:602-605. © 2019 Bioelectromagnetics Society.

MCNP model of the EEAE ACCUSCAN Whole Body Counter

Monte Carlo simulations and verification measurements for the efficiency calibration of the ACCUSCAN shadow-shield type Whole Body Counter (WBC) of the Greek Atomic Energy Commission (EEAE) are presented. A model of the counter and RMC-II anthropomorphic phantom was developed using the MCNP code. Full energy peak efficiencies for different phantom positions were calculated for 60Co and 137Cs sources. The deviations between computational and experimental efficiencies were found to be less than 12 % for 60Co and 4 % for 137Cs for the Ge detector and less than 25 % for 60Co and 4 % for 137Cs for the NaI detector. This work contributes to the accurate quantification of internal contamination in individuals accidentally exposed in Greece by the Greek Atomic Energy Commission Laboratories and moreover demonstrates the effectiveness of using computational tools for understanding the calibration of radiation detection systems used for in vivo monitoring.

A Holistic Approach to Assessment of Population Exposure to Radiation: Challenges and Initiatives of a Regulatory Authority.

A regulatory authority for radiation safety should continuously evaluate and improve the national safety framework, in line with current requirements and standards. In this context, the Greek Atomic Energy Commission initiated a series of concerted actions. The radiation dose to the population due to public and medical exposures was assessed. The assessment of dose due to public exposure was based on measurements of radon concentrations in dwellings, radionuclide concentrations in environmental samples, and air dose rates; the assessment of dose due to medical exposure was based on dose measurements for typical examinations or procedures and data on their frequency. The mean effective dose to a member of the population was found to be 4.5 mSv (1.8 mSv and 2.7 mSv from medical and public exposures, respectively). Regarding occupational exposure, aircrew dose assessment, eye lens monitoring, and the national dose registry were significantly improved. With respect to artificial tanning (sun beds), the ultraviolet radiation produced was assessed and the practices followed were observed. Results demonstrated exceedance of the 0.3 W m erythema effective irradiance limit set in European Union standards by 63.5% of the sun beds measured, along with general noncompliance with standards. An overarching activity was the upgrade of the Greek Atomic Energy Commission information system in order to collect and disseminate radiation data electronically, launch a networking strategy for interaction with stakeholders, and facilitate the process of regulatory control. In response to the above findings, regulatory actions have been initiated.

A strategic framework for the development and enhancement of safety culture in the artificial tanning sector in Greece

Herein, a strategic framework for the development and enhancement of safety culture in the artificial tanning sector in Greece is presented. This framework has been designed and promoted by the competent national regulatory authority, which is the Greek Atomic Energy Commission (EEAE). The aim is to ensure a common understanding regarding ultraviolet radiation (UVR) and artificial tanning among artificial tanning professionals, stakeholders and the general public. The strategic framework is founded on the recommendations of international organizations, EU requirements and the relevant technical standards. It comprises three autonomous but interconnected components: (A) a sunbed operators’ e-training course and certification process; (B) a code of practice addressed individually to business owners, sunbed operators and sunbed users; (C) communication strategies aiming to raise awareness regarding UVR and artificial tanning among all interested parties. The artificial tanning safety culture framework presented here is the policy option undertaken by the EEAE and is embedded in the upcoming legislation and regulations for the provision of artificial tanning services in Greece. EEAE considers that the structure of the artificial tanning safety culture strategic framework will serve as a guide for the development and promotion of relevant strategic safety culture frameworks for the provision of aesthetic/wellness services utilising other non-ionising radiation sources, which do not currently exist.

P284] Dosimetry audits in radiotherapy: 15 years of experience and lessons learnt

Purpose Dosimetry audits (DA) are useful for the evaluation of the dosimetric quality, planned dose accuracy, treatment complexity and deliverability of radiotherapy (RT) procedures, aiming to consult on detected discrepancies and improve standards and reliability of the RT centers. Since 2002, Greek Atomic Energy Commission (EEAE) provides dosimetry auditing services of level I and II and recently III, IV in MV photon and electron beams in all RT centers of the country. Methods DAs were conducted by means of on-site visits. The audit levels applied in sequence were: Mechanical and functional tests of the RT machine, absolute and relative dosimetry, beam and treatment planning system (TPS) output measurements under reference and non-reference conditions, end-to-end tests for the assessment of the TPS dose calculations, in basic and advanced radiotherapy techniques through 1D, 2D and 3D dosimetry. Measurements were compared to the stated by the RT center values according to acceptance and tolerance criteria. Uncertainties were estimated according to GUM. Results 98% for photons and 95% for electrons beams fulfilled dosimetry accuracy acceptance criteria (±3%) under reference conditions, improving gradually for the latter. The assessment of TPS output for 1134 beams (790 open, 344 wedged) was satisfactory in 95% and 84% of open and wedged beams, respectively. Non-acceptable results decreased progressively through time. End-to-end dosimetry tests, applied in 727 beams, exhibited acceptable, tolerated and non-acceptable results in 94%, 3% and 3% cases, respectively. Results for IMRT, VMAT and SRS were acceptable in all cases, stressing the need for systematic review of procedures for the whole chain of the clinical practice. Conclusions Dosimetry audit was proved to be a valuable tool for the improvement of quality in radiotherapy. Dosimetry accuracy is verified in the gross majority of RT centers. Discrepancies and bad practices were detected, presenting a decreasing incidence over the years. Guidance and recommendations provided, improved dosimetry practices and verified that the quality assurance of procedures in an institution is essential for achieving the required accuracy and safe operation. Results of this study imply challenges in TPS commissioning, especially for small fields, and challenges in multicenter comparison for complex dose distributions.

Institutional doses for chest CTA examinations using a 16-slice system

According to the council directive 2013/59/EURATOM, an important tool for the optimization of the radiation doses delivered to patients is the Diagnostic Reference Levels (DRLs). The Greek Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC) reports the national DRLs, based on institutional dose levels reported from various hospitals. There is a lack of national DRLs regarding various examinations and among them is the Computed Tomography Angiography (CTA). In this work, the dose delivered to patients during chest CTA examinations, at the University Hospital of Patras (UHP), is presented. Thirty standard sized patients were evaluated using a 16-slice CT system. The median value of the volume Computed Tomography Dose Index (CTDIvol) was 12.07 mGy and the median value of the Dose Length Product (DLP) was 429.66 mGy·cm. These values were comparable or higher than the corresponding values of the existing bibliography. The values reported could contribute in the establishment of the national DRLs.

RESPONSE OF THE GREEK EARLY WARNING SYSTEM REUTER-STOKES IONIZATION CHAMBERS TO TERRESTRIAL AND COSMIC RADIATION EVALUATED IN COMPARISON WITH SPECTROSCOPIC DATA AND TIME SERIES ANALYSIS

The Telemetric Early Warning System Network of the Greek Atomic Energy Commission consists mainly of a network of 24 Reuter-Stokes high-pressure ionization chambers (HPIC) for gamma dose rate measurements and covers all Greece. In the present work, the response of the Reuter-Stokes HPIC to terrestrial and cosmic radiation was evaluated in comparison with spectroscopic data obtained by in situ gamma spectrometry measurements with portable hyper pure Germanium detectors (HPGe), near the Reuter-Stokes detectors and time series analysis. For the HPIC detectors, a conversion factor for the measured absorbed dose rate in air (in nGy h-1) to the total ambient dose equivalent rate Ḣ*(10), due to terrestrial and cosmic component, was deduced by the field measurements. Time series analysis of the mean monthly dose rate (measured by the Reuter-Stokes detector in Thessaloniki, northern Greece, from 2001 to 2016) was performed with advanced statistical methods (Fast Fourier Analysis and Zhao Atlas Marks Transform). Fourier analysis reveals several periodicities (periodogram). The periodogram of the absorbed dose rate in air values was compared with the periodogram of the values measured for the same period (2001-16) and in the same location with a NaI (Tl) detector which in principle is not sensitive to cosmic radiation. The obtained results are presented and discussed.

Medical radiation exposure of the greek population

Introduction Medical exposures contribute the largest to the population man-made radiation exposure, mainly due to the high frequency of diagnostic examinations and the patient doses involved. Purpose A research project was carried out by the Greek Atomic Energy Commission (EEAE) to assess the collective dose and the average annual effective dose to the Greek population from x-ray and nuclear medicine procedures. This work was performed in the framework of ‘PRISMA’ project within GSRT’s KRIPIS action, funded by Greece and the European Regional Development Fund of the EU under the O.P. Competitiveness and Entrepreneurship, NSRF 2007–2013. Materials and methods For each type of diagnostic and interventional procedures, the estimation of the annual collective effective dose, S, (person-Sv) and per caput dose, E per-caput , (mSv/caput) required information on the frequency and the mean patient effective dose, E pat , (mSv). Results In 2014, approximately 6.7 million diagnostic and interventional procedures were performed in Greece. The estimated frequency, i.e. number of procedures per 1000 citizens was: 447 for plain radiographies, 135 for computed tomography scans, 7 for interventional procedures, 2 for fluoroscopic procedures and 20 for nuclear medicine procedures. The annual effective dose per caput was estimated to 1.7 mSv from diagnostic radiology and 0.1 mSv from NM procedures. Conclusion The main contribution to the collective dose due to x-ray procedures appeared from CT scans. The collective effective dose and the annual per caput dose from NM procedures have decreased in the last 5 years.

The need to identify occupational exposure to laser radiation in greece

Introduction Optical radiation, part of the non-ionizing spectrum, covers the UV, the IR and the visible regions. The relevant occupational exposure legislation, Directive 2006/25/EC, employs limits and Occupational Health & Safety (OHS) regulations for laser (coherent) and non-coherent artificial optical radiation (AOR). Purpose Although ten years have passed from the release of the aforementioned Directive, poor progress has been made for its practical implementation, mainly regarding the risk assessment by a qualified expert. The Hellenic Ministry of Labor, following a non-coherent AOR survey, in conjunction with the National Technical University of Athens and the Greek Atomic Energy Commission took the initiative to identify the field. Materials and methods Lasers are widespread mainly in health care facilities, industry, cosmetic applications, research and entertainment, but there is no homogenized safety approach countrywide. Selected workplaces have been chosen for evaluation of their OHS applied and for measurement of the appropriate optical quantities. The role of the Laser Safety Officer has been discussed as well. Results Mapping of the extent of laser applications in Greece has been performed together with an initial testing of selected crucial workplaces, as representative pilot studies. Major challenge and objective is the development of dedicated risk assessment checklists and of QA protocols for laser applications, further specified for medical applications. Conclusion The creation of a national occupational exposure database and of approved safety and QA protocols for laser procedures seems reasonable after the collaboration of the involved Authorities. Disclosure Authors disclose that they don’t have any relationship that may bias their presentation.