Workshop for National Focal Points on Denial of Shipment

This inter-regional workshop is to train National Focal Points on Denial of Shipment of Radioactive Material (NFPs) in their role and responsibilities, 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 the routes and modes of shipment, the predictability of transport, and the provision of medical diagnosis and treatment.

Since 2008, IAEA General Conference resolutions have called upon Member States 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 71 NFPs have been appointed, with the latest List of National Focal Points for Denial of Shipment of Radioactive Material​ available at https://gnssn.iaea.org/main/GlobalTransportNetworks/Pages/CompetentAuthorities.aspx

The role and key responsibilities of NFPs are 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;