Workshop for National Focal Points on Denial of Shipment of Radioactive Material

This four-day workshop is designed to train National Focal Points on Denial of Shipment of Radioactive Material (NFPs) in their role and responsibilities, intended to enhance their understanding of the actions expected.

A robust regulatory framework has been established for safe and secure transport of radioactive material, and this applies to all modes of transport on land, sea and in the air.  Despite this framework, difficulties in the transport of radioactive material may occur, known as denial of and delay in shipment of radioactive material (DoS).  This can affect inter alia the routes and modes of shipment, the predictability of transport, and the provision of medical diagnosis and treatment.

Since 2008, and recently in IAEA General Conference Resolution GC(68)/RES/8 para 96 of September 2024, Member States have been called upon to facilitate the transport of radioactive material, and identify a NFP to achieve a satisfactory and timely resolution of this issue.  The IAEA issued a Note Verbale on 16 January 2024 calling for the appointment of NFPs by Member States, and until now 50 NFPs have been appointed, with their contact details available at https://gnssn.iaea.org/main/GlobalTransportNetworks/Documents/National%20Focal%20Points%2020241007.pdf 

The role and key responsibilities of NFPs are grouped as follows:

1. SUPPORT

• Support the management of a national network of all interested parties and share information;
• Discuss with relevant interested parties any occurrence of DoS in order to facilitate a solution;
• Establish an action plan with relevant interested parties;
• Coordinate and facilitate solutions using a network of experts.

2. PREVENT

• Prepare proposals for possible improvements to mitigate the issue of DoS;
• Identify and communicate lessons learnt and share information;
• Collect DoS information for their Member State, and provide this to the IAEA for inclusion in a DoS database.

3. REPORT

• Provide feedback to the national network, and for each occurrence to the relevant interested parties,
• Report annually to their national network, the national authority and the IAEA Division of Radiation, Transport and Waste Safety.

This training workshop therefore sets out to provide a common understanding for the NFPs in fulfilling their role and responsibilities, and will provide the knowledge and tools for a successful design and implementation of a national action plan, stakeholder network and actions to facilitate solutions to DoS.  The participants will be existing NFPs or their delegates, coming from governmental bodies, regulatory bodies, technical support organizations, and other organizations, who have an interest in the transport of radioactive material.

This event will offer a comprehensive coverage comprising lectures and peer learning, interactive group discussions, and practical exercises.  Through a combination of theoretical and practical learning, participants will develop the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively fulfil their role.