Security in transport of radioactive material

Abstract

AbstractThe basis of safety regulation and practice in the handling (including transport) of radioactive materials has been the premise that any mishaps or accidents occur unintentionally, with a desire among all parties involved to avoid such incidents and to minimise their effects. The strategic importance of nuclear materials for military purposes has made these materials a potential target for unauthorised acquisition, however, and international conventions have been in place for many years to ensure the security of nuclear materials from theft and from interception during transport. Until recently, only nuclear materials were subject to such security measures, but concern over the consequences of incidents involving radioactive sources has led to a review of security measures for non-nuclear radioactive materials. The IAEA has encouraged governments to institute effective systems of control to ensure the security of radioactive materials and has published its 'Code of conduct on the safety and securi...