Radiation technology plays a critical role in India’s healthcare and industrial sectors. From diagnosing fractures in hospitals to conducting non-destructive testing in manufacturing units, radiation equipment is widely used. However, because radiation can pose serious health risks if mismanaged, the Government of India strictly regulates its usage through the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB).

Any facility using radiation-emitting equipment must obtain an AERB license and a valid radiation equipment license before starting operations. This approval is formalised through an AERB certificate, which confirms that the facility complies with national safety standards.

In this detailed guide, JR Compliance explains why an AERB license is mandatory, who needs it, the risks of non-compliance, and how professional AERB consultants simplify the process.

1. What is the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB)?

The Atomic Energy Regulatory Board is India’s official regulatory authority responsible for overseeing the safe use of radiation and nuclear energy.

It operates under the Atomic Energy Act and ensures that radiation usage does not harm:

• Patients

• Medical professionals

• Technicians

• Industrial workers

• The general public

The Board establishes safety standards, inspects facilities, grants approvals, and issues the required AERB certificate and AERB license.

Without approval from the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board, operating radiation equipment is considered a regulatory violation.

2. Why is an AERB licence mandatory?

Radiation exposure cannot be seen or felt immediately, but long-term exposure can lead to serious health complications. That is why strict safety control is required.

An AERB license is mandatory to ensure:

1. Proper shielding of radiation rooms

2. Safe installation of equipment

3. Monitoring of radiation exposure

4. Appointment of a qualified Radiation Safety Officer (RSO)

5. Regular quality assurance testing

The purpose of issuing a radiation equipment license is not to create paperwork — it is to confirm that your facility is safe for operation.

3. What is a Radiation Equipment License?

A radiation equipment license is the official authorisation that allows an organisation to install and operate radiation-emitting machines legally.

Equipment that requires an AERB license includes:

• X-ray machines

• CT scan systems

• C-arm machines

• Dental X-ray units

• Mammography machines

• Industrial radiography equipment

If you use any of these, you must obtain an AERB certificate before starting operations.

4. Who Needs an AERB License in India?

The requirement applies to multiple sectors.

Medical Sector

• Hospitals

• Diagnostic imaging centres

• Dental clinics

• Orthopedic clinic

• Veterinary hospitals

Industrial Sector

• Non-destructive testing (NDT) companies

• Manufacturing units

• Research laboratories

• Radiography service provider

Every such organisation must secure a radiation equipment license from the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board.

5. Legal Consequences of Operating Without an AERB Certificate

Operating radiation equipment without a valid AERB license is a serious violation.

The Atomic Energy Regulatory Board has the authority to:

• Seal the equipment

• Impose financial penalties

• Suspend operations

• Initiate legal proceedings

In many cases, facilities have faced sudden shutdowns due to non-compliance. Apart from financial loss, reputational damage can also be severe.

This is why experienced AERB consultants always recommend completing licensing before installation.

6. Step-by-Step Process to Obtain an AERB License

The process involves multiple stages and technical review.

Step 1: Registration on eLORA Portal

Applications are submitted online through AERB’s official system.

Step 2: Site & Layout Approval

Facility layout must include shielding calculations and safety design.

Step 3: Equipment Approval

Equipment must be purchased from approved vendors.

Step 4: Installation & QA Testing

Proper installation and quality assurance tests are conducted.

Step 5: Inspection (If Required)

AERB may inspect the site before approval.

Step 6: Grant of AERB Certificate

Upon successful review, the radiation equipment license is issued.

7. Documents Required for AERB License

Proper documentation plays a crucial role in approval.

Commonly required documents include:

• Layout plan with shielding details

• Equipment specifications

• Ownership documents

• Radiation Safety Officer credentials

• QA test reports

• Installation certificate

• TLD badge registration details

Incomplete documentation is one of the most common reasons for delays in obtaining an AERB certificate.

8. Common Challenges in AERB License Approval

While the process is clear, practical challenges often arise.

Common issues include:

• Incorrect shielding design

• Improper room dimensions

• Missing QA reports

• Errors in online filing

• RSO approval delays

Even small mistakes can result in rejection or resubmission.

Professional AERB consultants help prevent such issues.

9. Role of Professional AERB Consultants

Applying for an AERB license requires technical understanding and compliance knowledge.

Experienced AERB consultants provide:

• Pre-application assessment, Layout review guidance

• Documentation preparation

• Online application support

• Inspection coordination

• Renewal tracking

Instead of navigating the process alone, working with specialists improves approval efficiency.

JR Compliance offers structured assistance to secure your AERB certificate smoothly.

10. Validity and Renewal of Radiation Equipment License

An AERB license is issued for a defined validity period. It must be renewed before expiry.

Failure to renew your radiation equipment license can lead to:

• Suspension of machine usage

• Monetary penalties

• Legal complications

Timely renewal ensures uninterrupted compliance with the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board.

11. Post-License Compliance Responsibilities

Compliance does not end once you receive your AERB certificate.

You must continue to:

• Conduct periodic QA testing

• Monitor radiation exposure

• Maintain safety logs

• Train staff on radiation safety

• Report any technical malfunction

The Atomic Energy Regulatory Board may conduct inspections at any time. Maintaining proper records is essential.

12. Why Choose JR Compliance as Your AERB Consultants?

JR Compliance provides complete support for:

• New AERB license applications

• Radiation equipment license approvals

• AERB certificate documentation

• Renewal assistance

• Inspection readiness

• Ongoing compliance management

What makes JR Compliance reliable:

• Experienced compliance team

• Transparent communication

• Structured documentation process

• Timely updates

• Pan-India service coverage

If you are searching for dependable AERB consultants, professional guidance ensures fewer delays and smooth coordination with the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board.

13. How Long Does It Take to Get an AERB License?

Approval timelines vary depending on:

• Accuracy of documents

• Readiness of infrastructure

• Technical compliance

• Inspection clearance

Facilities that prepare properly experience faster approval of their radiation equipment license.

Conclusion

An AERB license is not just a regulatory requirement—it is a critical safeguard designed by the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board to protect human health and environmental safety. Whether you operate a hospital, diagnostic centre, dental clinic, or industrial unit, obtaining a valid radiation equipment license and AERB certificate is mandatory under Indian regulations.

Operating without approval can lead to penalties, equipment sealing, business disruption, and legal action. More importantly, non-compliance puts lives at risk.

By working with experienced AERB consultants like JR Compliance, businesses can ensure proper documentation, technical compliance, timely approval, and smooth renewal. Professional support simplifies what might otherwise be. If you need expert support for obtaining an AERB license, JR Compliance offers trusted, practical assistance for complete Atomic Energy Regulatory Board approvals. As experienced AERB consultants, we help hospitals, diagnostic centres, dental clinics, and industrial units secure their AERB certificate, obtain a valid radiation equipment license, and maintain proper quality assurance for X-ray machine compliance, while ensuring controlled radiation exposure standards.

Contact JR Compliance for reliable AERB license support and simplify your regulatory process with confidence.

Address: Third Floor, House No. 9, Paschim Vihar, Madipur Metro Station, Paschim Vihar Extension, West Delhi, Delhi-110063
Call us at  1800121410410 
Email us at: support@jrcompliance.com