Calibration is the process of checking an instrument to ensure that it complies with the manufacturer's specification i.e., that it properly measures the radiation level to which it is exposed. This involves exposing the instrument to varying types and doses of radiation. 

Calibration of a radiation measurement instrument is carried out by taking a reading of a precise and known quantity of radiation which is traceable to international standards. Readings are compared to manufacturer’s specifications to ensure the instrument is functioning correctly. 

All businesses and practices which are licensed to use sources of ionising radiation are obliged by law to ensure measuring instruments are accurately calibrated. They must also be regularly checked to ensure that they are serviceable, and that they are being correctly used. 

Under Irish law, radiation measurement instruments must be individually calibrated before first use and annually thereafter to ensure that they are in full working order. They should also be calibrated after any repair is carried out.

The EPA Calibration Service calibrates the most commonly used radiation measurement instruments in Ireland, namely: 

• Surface Contamination Monitors 
• Gamma and X-Ray Survey Meters 
• Electronic Personal Dosimeters 
• Personal Alarms 

All instruments must be booked through our online booking system below. 

Book your instrument for calibration here

Please be aware that slots fill in quickly and should we have no available dates to accommodate your request, there are alternative labs that provide the same service. 

The time slots displayed on the booking system do not represent actual calibration time. They represent the slots available on that specific week. A new booking and online application form must be submitted for each instrument. Transportation of instruments to and from the EPA is the responsibility of the customer. 

For further information, please contact us directly at the  EPA Calibration Service. 

If you have any amendments to your booking, please contact us as at EPACalibration@epa.ie

If your preferred booking date is not available, please contact us as EPACalibration@epa.ie to be added to the waiting list.

To cancel your booking, please contact us at EPACalibration@epa.ie  24hours notice is required for all cancellations.

The instrument should be sent by courier in a suitable container, or personally delivered to:

All instruments are cleaned or where applicable decontaminated prior to sending them into our calibration lab. 

If the instrument is sent to us by post, it should be suitably packaged to prevent damage during transportation. 

It should also be prominently labelled with the words FRAGILE ELECTRONIC INSTRUMENT, or similar. 

A calibration certificate is returned together with the calibrated instrument. 

For information on charges, please see  Calibration services offered by the EPA.

Yes, you can pay by credit card, but you must provide a purchase order number in advance. 

The EPA does not sell radiation measurement or protection instruments. 

The EPA does not carry out repairs of electronic equipment. However, we are happy to advise you about possible solutions. 

You will receive an email notification when your instrument has been calibrated and is ready for collection.