Speaking at the opening event, Co-Chair of the meeting, Ramzi Jammal, Executive Vice-President and Chief Regulatory Operations Officer at the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission, emphasized that the implementation of the Code of Conduct is essential in ensuring the protection of the environment, public and workers. “Our ultimate goal is to ensure the overall safety and security of radioactive sources during their complete lifecycle to avert accidental radiation exposure and prevent radioactive sources from being used with malicious intent. This is a collaborative, ongoing effort.”
In introducing a special session on the history of the Code, Theresa Clark, a Deputy Division Director at the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, also addressed attendees as Co-Chair: “In reflecting on, and in celebration of, these twenty years, we wanted to achieve a common understanding of the background of the Code from the legal and technical perspective, so we can share experiences, best practices and learn from each other to improve the implementation of the Code globally.”
The Code of Conduct details how countries can ensure the safety and security of radioactive sources from their initial production to final disposal. It contains international considerations and offers recommendations on the development, harmonization and implementation of national policies, laws and regulations, as well as on cooperation between countries. Although it is a legally non-binding instrument, 146 states have expressed their political support for implementing the Code’s provisions since its approval by the Board of Governors in 2003.
The Code of Conduct is supplemented by two Guidance documents. The Guidance on the Import and Export of Radioactive Sources addresses roles and responsibilities in ensuring safe and secure import and export. The Guidance on the Management of Disused Radioactive Sources provides guidance for the management of disused sources, delineating end-of-life management options such as recycling and reuse, long-term storage and disposal as well as return to the supplier. This Guidance also encourages the establishment of a national policy and strategy for the management of disused sources.
“The Code of Conduct and its Guidance documents bring tangible benefits to national and international radiation safety and nuclear security, enabling to take full advantage of radioactive sources for a sustainable future,” concluded co-chair Aayda Ahmed Al Shehhi, Director of Radiation Safety at the UAE Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation.
The IAEA works and cooperates closely with countries to ensure the harmonized, safe and secure management of radioactive sources. It supports them in implementing the principles of the Code and provides extensive assistance in developing strategies and action plans for implementing the Code; improving licensing, inspection, enforcement and management systems; and strengthening the capacity of national regulatory bodies in line with IAEA safety standards, nuclear security guidance and international best practices.
