The National Radiological Protection Board was created by the Radiological Protection Act 1970.

The statutory functions of NRPB under the Act are:

by means of research and otherwise, to advance the acquisition of knowledge about the protection of mankind from radiation hazards, and

to provide information and advice to persons (including Government Departments) with responsibilities in the United Kingdom in relation to the protection from radiation hazards either of the community as a whole or of particular sections of the community.

NRPB was also given the power

to provide technical services to persons concerned with radiation hazards, and

to make charges for such services, and for providing information and advice.