Law Summary
Introduction
Presidential Decree No. 480, issued on June 6, 1974, establishes the Radiation Health Office within the Department of Health in the Philippines, tasked with regulating the use of radiation-emitting apparatus in various fields to ensure public health safety.
Creation and Functions of the Radiation Health Office
- Legal Principle: Establishes a dedicated office to oversee radiation health and safety.
- Key Functions: • Prescribe regulations for the production, import, and export of radiation-emitting apparatus and non-ionizing radiation devices (e.g., microwaves, lasers). • Require the registration of existing radiation-emitting equipment within six months of the decree's effectivity. • Conduct inspections of radiation apparatus in both private and government sectors. • Issue protective rules and regulations for radiation workers, approved by the Secretary of Health. • Collaborate with the Philippine Atomic Energy Commission to establish National Radiation Standards. • Facilitate training for radiation workers. • Collect, analyze, and disseminate information regarding radiation protection.
Relationship with Other Entities
- Legal Principle: Mandates cooperation with other governmental, private entities, and international organizations.
- Cooperative Duty: • The Radiation Health Office must coordinate its activities with various stakeholders involved in radiation-related operations.
Appropriations
- Legal Principle: Ensures funding for the Radiation Health Office's operations.
- Financial Provisions: • An initial appropriation of Two Hundred Thousand Pesos (P200,000.00) is allocated from the National Treasury. • This amount shall be included in the annual General Appropriations Act for the Office's continued operations.
Repealing Clause
- Legal Principle: Clarifies the impact of the decree on existing laws.
- Implications: • Any inconsistent laws, decrees, orders, rules, or regulations are repealed, revised, or amended to align with this decree.
Effectivity
- Legal Principle: Specifies when the decree becomes operational.
- Timeframe: • The decree takes effect immediately upon signing on June 6, 1974.
Key Takeaways
- The Radiation Health Office is established to regulate and ensure safety concerning radiation use in various sectors.
- The decree outlines specific functions, including registration, inspection, and training related to radiation safety.
- A budget of P200,000 is allocated for the Office's initial operations, with future funding tied to the General Appropriations Act.
- The decree supersedes any conflicting legal provisions, emphasizing its authority and immediate effect.