Explanatory note

This Order amends provisions of the Radioactive Substances (Smoke Detectors) Exemption Order 1980 ("the 1980 Order") relating to the exemption from registration under section I of the Radioactive Substances Act 1960 in respect of the keeping and use of smoke detectors.

The limitation in Article 6(1) of the 1980 Order on the total number of smoke detectors on premises in respect of which exemption is granted is increased from 100 to 500. In addition two conditions are imposed where the total number of smoke detectors on the premises exceeds 100. One condition deals with storage of smoke detectors when not displayed for the purpose of sale. The other requires the maintenance of records of smoke detectors kept on the premises. (See Article 2(3)(a) and (b) of this Order).

The chief inspector appointed under the Radioactive Substances Act 1960 must in future be notified under Article 6(2) of the 1980 Order (instead of the Secretary of State) where, for example, there are reasonable grounds for believing that a radioactive source incorporated in a smoke detector fixed to premises has been lost or stolen (see Article 2(2) and (3)(c) of this Order).

A copy of the British Standard mentioned in Article 2(3)(b) of this Order is available from any of the sales outlets of the British Standards Institution or by post from the British Standards Institution, Linford Wood, Milton Keynes MK14 6LE (Telephone number: Milton Keynes (STD 0908 220022)). A copy of the International Standard mentioned in that provision is also available from the British Standards Institution but only by post from the same address in Milton Keynes.