The Radiation Protection Institute (RPI) was constituted to provide scientific and technical support for the now defunct Radiation Protection Board (RPB), which was established in 1993 by PNDC Law 308 as the national competent authority for the authorization and inspection of practices using radiation sources and radioactive materials in Ghana.
Currently, the Atomic Energy Act 204 of 1963, has been replaced by the Atomic Energy Act 588 of 2000, established the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC). Under the Act 588, RPI was established to provide technical support to the then Radiation Protection Board (RPB) established under GAEC by PNDCL 308 of 1993 to perform regulatory functions.
Another Act of the Parliament of Ghana, Act 895 of 2015 set up a new regulatory body called the Nuclear Regulatory Authority, Ghana (NRA) which started operation in January 2016. Thus, there was the need to restructure the Radiation Protection Institute with a renewed focus. The RPI is now a Research and Technical Support Organization. The Institute has obtained relevant authorization from the NRA to undertake some technical services.
The RPI as currently exists has been structured into five scientific/technical Centres namely; Health Physics Centre (HPC), Environmental Radiation Protection Centre (ERPC), Nuclear Safety and Security Centre (NSSC), Radioactive Waste Management Centre (RWMC) and Radiation Protection Training and Consultancy Centre (RPTCC) with well-defined activities and programmes.
Vision statement
Our vision is to be recognized both nationally and internationally as the leading Ghanaian research and service institution for the protection against ionizing and non-ionizing radiation, safety and security of radioactive materials and nuclear installations.
Mission statement
Our mission is to provide an effective national scientific and technical framework for the protection of people, property and the environment against any adverse effect of ionizing and non-ionizing radiation, and the safety and security of radioactive materials and nuclear installations.
Core values
The core values of the Institute are: Integrity, Innovation, Excellence, Commitment, Staff development, Team work, Client focus, Confidentiality
Mandate
The Radiation Protection Institute was established as an Institute of the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission. Its mandate is to work in the area of Radiation Protection to assist in the overall fulfilment of the vision and mission of the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission. The Institute is to collaborate with other stakeholders in the shaping of national policy on radiation protection.
Vision statement
The key functions of the Institute include:
Conduct of relevant Scientific research
Provision of Technical services
Conduct of Training in radiation protection and safety and nuclear security
Advice relevant stakeholders on issues pertaining to radiation exposure