Protecting Against Radiation Risks

Wherever nuclear technologies are involved safety is of paramount importance. The Chernobyl power plant accident in 1986 heightened public fears. Radiation sources used everyday in medicine and industry are also a possible, although less potent danger if not closely monitored. More is being discovered about natural radiation, which causes health concerns for miners and people living in areas with high amounts of radon gas. The IAEA's programme for radiation protection provides Member States with an integrated support system to improve the safety of their nuclear activities and adequately protect nuclear workers and the general public.

Primary areas of IAEA's work are improving the safety and security of radiation sources and radioactive materials to prevent accidents or misuse, international interventions in emergency situations to mitigate the consequences of radiation accidents and providing for safe transport and disposal of radioactive materials and waste. The Agency has also played a lead role in developing regulations and guidance fostering a sound worldwide nuclear safety culture. The International Basic Safety Standards (BSS) was recently updated and revised by the IAEA in collaboration with other concerned organizations. The BSS set out detailed requirements for practices and interventions to protect workers, patients and the general public from radiation exposure. They also recommend procedures for ensuring the safety of radiation sources, for accident prevention and dosage guidance in medical procedures.

IAEA has likewise sought to enhance safety standards and practices with nuclear waste through improved treatment, transfer and storage methods. In co-operation with national authorities, the Agency has conducted numerous training programmes, providing technical expertise to Member States in various aspects of radioactive waste management. Courses have been held in 20 countries, and the results have been compiled to provide guidance to other Member States. The IAEA has also published a set of safety documents — the Radioactive Waste Safety Standard RADWASS — to document the international consensus in this area.

In 1997, under the auspices of the IAEA, the first legally binding international agreement on safe management, storage and disposal of spent nuclear fuel and radioactive waste was adopted. This new Safety Convention will help to ensure that there are effective defenses against potential hazards during all stages of spent fuel and radioactive waste management.

IAEA places high priority on practical assistance in the field. To ensure quick and effective action during any international nuclear emergency, the Agency operates an Emergency Response System. This includes a round-the-clock operation centre, as well as training courses and regular exercises within Member States to make certain that authorities are capable of dealing at the highest standards with radiation leaks or other incidents. Finally, IAEA's Radiation Protection Advisory Team has carried out hundreds of missions to assess radiation protection infrastructures, to formulate strategies for improvement and to advise national authorities on priorities.