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Veterinary Applications

Mandate

HERCA activities on veterinary applications are under the responsibility of the WG on Veterinary Applications (WGVA).

Set up in 2013 after interactions WGVA aims at proposing a radiation protection framework for veterinary application of ionising radiation with the following mandate:

“To provide a solid base to strive towards a (more) harmonised approach and gain understanding on the different approaches throughout Europe for veterinary applications of ionising radiation, mainly focussing on the protection of humans, but also follow the development of international radiation protection principles with regards to the protection of the animal patient. The principle of graded approach will be taken into consideration in all these items”.

Vision

To achieve, within Europe, a more harmonised approach and gain understanding on the different approaches for veterinary applications of ionising radiation.

HERCA WGVA seeks improvements in:

  • Sharing knowledge and understanding of regulatory requirements and arrangements in other European countries.
  • Sharing knowledge and understanding on possible applications of ionising radiation in the veterinary sector.
  • Identifying benefits and obstacles in the current international radiation protection system.
  • Monitoring the development of international radiation protection principles with regards to radiation protection in the field of veterinary medicine, including with regards to the protection of the individual animal.

Since its establishment, the HERCA WGVA has actively worked to harmonise the approach with regards to the requirements in the field of veterinary applications with ionising radiation between the different HERCA member countries.

It has worked on informing the different member countries on the increasing possibilities in the veterinary field and about the impact on the safety of people involved in these procedures. In doing so, the working group has tried to provide a solid forum for discussing the different approaches throughout Europe and in working to find a common understanding to further harmonise the approaches. The working group has also been very invested in exchanging experiences and knowledge with regards to the increased use of radiotherapy and nuclear medicine in veterinary practice, further supporting regulatory bodies in developing or optimising their own regulatory framework.

Last publications from WGVA

Guidance doc veterinary radiation therapy

This guidance aims to provide an overview of the different veterinary radiation therapy procedures that are performed in the different HERCA member countries. It also gives practical advice on safety measures on the matter.

Chairmanship

For additional information

wgva@herca.org