Background
In the last few years, many States have markedly increased the security of their radioactive sources. Multiple factors have contributed to this progress. For example, most of these States are fully aware of the consequences that could result from a malicious use of sources; therefore, they have issued and enforced regulatory requirements for the security of their sources. These regulations, based on the international recommendations and guidance published by the IAEA, have provided a framework to permit effective regulatory oversight of security for radioactive materials, greatly enhancing the possibility that these systems will be sustained. In addition, the international community, through bilateral and multilateral efforts, has directly supported many States to strengthen their regulatory framework and enhance security provisions implemented for sources in use, storage or transport.
Although such efforts and initiatives have greatly increased source security in many States, it is now essential to demonstrate the resilience and sustainability of these arrangements over a period of years. Fundamentally, sustainability requires the proper management of sources throughout their lifecycle—from the moment the sources are being produced and the security systems that protect them are being designed to proper disposal at the end of their lifecycle. To increase resilience, strict control over the sources in use must be enforced, a strong security culture must be fostered, and careful planning and exercising must take place to ensure the response is as effective as possible if an event occurs. And of course, a strong legislative and regulatory framework, security regulations, and incentives to adopt alternative technologies whenever feasible play a fundamental role.
Radioactive source security sustainability and resilience requires close communication and cooperation among a wide range of stakeholders, including regulators, licensees, law enforcement, security vendors, education and training organisations and international agencies.
Objectives
The primary objective of the workshop was to identify and discuss the criteria and parameters at the state level that promote and demonstrate sustainable security of radioactive sources. Workshop discussions built on the best practices countries have adopted to ensure sustainable and resilient radiological security arrangements. To accomplish this objective, participants were encouraged to:
- Define and discuss what is meant by resilient and sustainable radiological security;
- Review the key elements and prerequisites for creating a comprehensive radiological security framework;
- Identify criteria demonstrating that an effective and sustainable national framework for the security of radioactive sources has been achieved;
- Discuss how regulators can promote site-level effectiveness and sustainability through regulations, inspections, and coordination with response agencies;
- Identify practical tools for assessing the performance of security systems and procedures;
- Identify training opportunities to improve the competency of staff;
- Share best practices for effective engagement of law enforcement agencies and response to incidents involving sources;
- Explore options to permanently reduce the risk (i.e. replacement or disposition);
- Develop a common understanding of what an effective security culture looks like and how it can mitigate threats; and
- Identify common sustainability challenges and share practical solutions.
The workshop also gave participants the opportunity to reflect on what still needs to be done and to share their experiences, perspectives and lessons learned.
Audience
Mid- to senior-level staff from European regulatory bodies and interior ministries.
Process
Facilitated Workshop
This interactive, professionally facilitated workshop was held in English. Its format incorporated several presentations from experts with hands-on group discussions that enabled participants to further explore the topics.
An Instant Electronic Voting system was used that allowed participants to use keypads to anonymously share their views on questions put to the workshop. Discussions were be subject to Chatham House rules (what is said can be reported but not attributed).
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