This meeting, organized by the Radiation Protection Committee of the British Institute of Radiology, was held on 22 April, 1996. The programme gave both new recruits to diagnostic radiology and established radiologists the opportunity to learn or refresh their knowledge of radiation protection matters. To this end papers were invited from a range of speakers on diverse topics such as measurement of dose, risk, dose saving methods and hazards. Much is happening in radiation protection matters with improved understanding of the radiobiology of radiation effect and the realization that there is no safe dose threshold. This has led to significant change in radiation safety legislation and guidance. Hence it was rather disappointing that so few radiologists were prepared to spend a day learning about the dangers of the product with which they make their living.