Pair Prosecuted For Using Dental X-Ray Apparatus While Unlicensed
DENTISTS John Kilburn and Jane Kilburn have been prosecuted in the Tauranga District Court for using irradiating
apparatus while unlicensed to do so.
The Ministry of Health initiated a prosecution against the pair under the Radiation Protection Act after the pair
refused to renew their licenses, despite repeated requests. At the time of prosecution John Kilburn was still unlicensed
but Jane Kilburn had obtained a licence.
On 15 January 2001 the Court found the charges laid by the Ministry were proved and admonished John Kilburn to comply
with the law and get licensed. Both were then discharged without conviction.
Ministry of Health National Radiation Laboratory manager Jim Turnbull said the prosecution and Court decision that the
charges were proved should serve as a reminder to anyone using irradiating apparatus to keep their licence valid and up
to date. He said the licensing regime is necessary to verify that irradiating apparatus is operating correctly and used
properly.
"Although the risks from X-ray equipment are low, they do exist and excessive or improper exposure through faulty
equipment is a public health issue," Mr Turnbull said.