A properly established governmental, legal and regulatory framework for safety provides for the effective regulatory control of facilities and activities with radiation sources. An important aspect of a regulatory framework is to ensure that the implementation of the regulatory programme is commensurate with the radiation risks associated with facilities and activities, in accordance with a graded approach. This publication provides practical guidance on the application of a graded approach in regulating the safety of radiation sources. Examples of applying this approach in some Member States are included. The proposed methodologies promote a systematic and consistent approach to regulating in accordance with the IAEA safety standards.