Security of Radioactive Sources

Introduction

In the continuing aftermath of 9/11 and the 'war on terror' the association of Chief Police Officers has produced guidance to assist employers in considering security arrangements for their particular radioactive sources. This forms part of a Govnt initiative to ensure optimum protection from theft is afforded to all radioactive sources by introducing improved security measures in respect of their storage, transport, use and disposal. Many of the measures already in place for ensuring the protection of sources and people at registered premises (as required by RSA93 and IRR99) will equally address the security of sources. The aim now is to enhance security further to reduce the risk of sources being used for terrorist purposes.

Security advice

In their publication 'Security Guidance for Sites and Sectors working with Radioactive Sources' the ACPO identifies specific security measures which should be considered for various categories of source holdings. This document is classified as Restricted and the contents cannot therefore be copied or reproduced. Since October 2003 the guidance is being rolled out by Counter Terrorism Security Advisers (co-ordinating authority: the police National Counter Terrorism Security Office) who are visiting all registered premises to inspect current arrangements and make recommendations for security enhancement.

Appropriate measures

If you have not yet received a visit from your local CTSA, you should expect one shortly. Any resulting recommendations, or concerns you may have regarding these, should be discussed with your RPA. Clearly, any added security measures must be appropriate to the level of radiological hazard presented by your source(s), and must not unduly compromise radiological safety.

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