 g) Transportation of Disused Sources
In case the disused sources are to be transported from one place to another, the exercise must be in accordance with the Atomic Energy Council requirements that govern transport of radioactive sources.
h) Carrying out radiation survey measurements
Radiation survey measurements should be routinely conducted especially where they are stored to verify their presence and for other safety reasons. Results of surveys should be maintained.
By following this guidance and working in collaboration with the Atomic Energy Council, operators can help safeguard public health, national security, and the environment. In doing so, Uganda will contribute to global nuclear safety and security while reducing risks to current and future generations.
e) Regular Wipe Testing
Each sealed source must undergo a wipe test every 12 months. If any leakage is detected the source must be isolated immediately, AEC must be informed without delay, proper containment, decontamination, and repair conducted under supervision of a qualified individual or team.
f) Training and Nuclear Security Culture
Operators and staff must receive continuous training in DSRS handling, incident response, and emergency procedures. Training should emphasize identification of suspicious items, Proper notification channels (AEC, Uganda Police Force), avoiding direct handling or transport by untrained individuals and instilling a strong nuclear security culture.
 g) Transportation of Disused Sources
In case the disused sources are to be transported from one place to another, the exercise must be in accordance with the Atomic Energy Council requirements that govern transport of radioactive sources.
h) Carrying out radiation survey measurements
Radiation survey measurements should be routinely conducted especially where they are stored to verify their presence and for other safety reasons. Results of surveys should be maintained.
By following this guidance and working in collaboration with the Atomic Energy Council, operators can help safeguard public health, national security, and the environment. In doing so, Uganda will contribute to global nuclear safety and security while reducing risks to current and future generations.
d) Incident Reporting and Response
Facilities are required to document emergency plans for response to events tailored to site-specific risks. Some of the events that warrant reporting include, fire, theft, loss of a radioactive source or spillage of radioactive material. As such, the Radiation Safety Officer (RSO) is supposed to implement the documented procedures of reporting incidents to AEC which may include initiating an internal response and search protocol and document both incident corrective actions taken. Timely communication with authorities is crucial to avoid accidental exposure or malicious use.
e) Regular Wipe Testing
Each sealed source must undergo a wipe test every 12 months. If any leakage is detected the source must be isolated immediately, AEC must be informed without delay, proper containment, decontamination, and repair conducted under supervision of a qualified individual or team.
f) Training and Nuclear Security Culture
Operators and staff must receive continuous training in DSRS handling, incident response, and emergency procedures. Training should emphasize identification of suspicious items, Proper notification channels (AEC, Uganda Police Force), avoiding direct handling or transport by untrained individuals and instilling a strong nuclear security culture.
 g) Transportation of Disused Sources
In case the disused sources are to be transported from one place to another, the exercise must be in accordance with the Atomic Energy Council requirements that govern transport of radioactive sources.
h) Carrying out radiation survey measurements
Radiation survey measurements should be routinely conducted especially where they are stored to verify their presence and for other safety reasons. Results of surveys should be maintained.
By following this guidance and working in collaboration with the Atomic Energy Council, operators can help safeguard public health, national security, and the environment. In doing so, Uganda will contribute to global nuclear safety and security while reducing risks to current and future generations.
c) Utilize Return Agreements
Operators should ensure all imported sources include a return-to-supplier agreement prior to acquisition. Upon the end of a source’s useful life, the preferred management option is to return it to the manufacturer for proper disposal or recycling.
d) Incident Reporting and Response
Facilities are required to document emergency plans for response to events tailored to site-specific risks. Some of the events that warrant reporting include, fire, theft, loss of a radioactive source or spillage of radioactive material. As such, the Radiation Safety Officer (RSO) is supposed to implement the documented procedures of reporting incidents to AEC which may include initiating an internal response and search protocol and document both incident corrective actions taken. Timely communication with authorities is crucial to avoid accidental exposure or malicious use.
e) Regular Wipe Testing
Each sealed source must undergo a wipe test every 12 months. If any leakage is detected the source must be isolated immediately, AEC must be informed without delay, proper containment, decontamination, and repair conducted under supervision of a qualified individual or team.
f) Training and Nuclear Security Culture
Operators and staff must receive continuous training in DSRS handling, incident response, and emergency procedures. Training should emphasize identification of suspicious items, Proper notification channels (AEC, Uganda Police Force), avoiding direct handling or transport by untrained individuals and instilling a strong nuclear security culture.
 g) Transportation of Disused Sources
In case the disused sources are to be transported from one place to another, the exercise must be in accordance with the Atomic Energy Council requirements that govern transport of radioactive sources.
h) Carrying out radiation survey measurements
Radiation survey measurements should be routinely conducted especially where they are stored to verify their presence and for other safety reasons. Results of surveys should be maintained.
By following this guidance and working in collaboration with the Atomic Energy Council, operators can help safeguard public health, national security, and the environment. In doing so, Uganda will contribute to global nuclear safety and security while reducing risks to current and future generations.
b) Maintain Accurate Inventory and Records
Operators must maintain detailed and up-to-date records for each radioactive source, including date of acquisition, source type and activity level, physical form, location, Transfer, disposal, or return history. This record should be routinely verified and submitted to the Atomic Energy Council (AEC) as part of regulatory compliance.
c) Utilize Return Agreements
Operators should ensure all imported sources include a return-to-supplier agreement prior to acquisition. Upon the end of a source’s useful life, the preferred management option is to return it to the manufacturer for proper disposal or recycling.
d) Incident Reporting and Response
Facilities are required to document emergency plans for response to events tailored to site-specific risks. Some of the events that warrant reporting include, fire, theft, loss of a radioactive source or spillage of radioactive material. As such, the Radiation Safety Officer (RSO) is supposed to implement the documented procedures of reporting incidents to AEC which may include initiating an internal response and search protocol and document both incident corrective actions taken. Timely communication with authorities is crucial to avoid accidental exposure or malicious use.
e) Regular Wipe Testing
Each sealed source must undergo a wipe test every 12 months. If any leakage is detected the source must be isolated immediately, AEC must be informed without delay, proper containment, decontamination, and repair conducted under supervision of a qualified individual or team.
f) Training and Nuclear Security Culture
Operators and staff must receive continuous training in DSRS handling, incident response, and emergency procedures. Training should emphasize identification of suspicious items, Proper notification channels (AEC, Uganda Police Force), avoiding direct handling or transport by untrained individuals and instilling a strong nuclear security culture.
 g) Transportation of Disused Sources
In case the disused sources are to be transported from one place to another, the exercise must be in accordance with the Atomic Energy Council requirements that govern transport of radioactive sources.
h) Carrying out radiation survey measurements
Radiation survey measurements should be routinely conducted especially where they are stored to verify their presence and for other safety reasons. Results of surveys should be maintained.
By following this guidance and working in collaboration with the Atomic Energy Council, operators can help safeguard public health, national security, and the environment. In doing so, Uganda will contribute to global nuclear safety and security while reducing risks to current and future generations.
a) Implement Site Security Measures
Facilities storing disused sealed radioactive sources (DSRS) must apply graded security controls based on the categorization of the source. Such measures may include:
- Implementing 24/7 surveillance, including CCTV in storage areas
- Installing tamper detections for Category 1 & 2 sources
- Documenting and implementing access controls and documentation procedures including visitor control, escort policies, and entry logs
- Implementing a two-person rule for handling access to vital areas
- Installing and maintain perimeter lighting that enhances visibility for security personnel
- Documented emergency response plans, tailored to site-specific risks
b) Maintain Accurate Inventory and Records
Operators must maintain detailed and up-to-date records for each radioactive source, including date of acquisition, source type and activity level, physical form, location, Transfer, disposal, or return history. This record should be routinely verified and submitted to the Atomic Energy Council (AEC) as part of regulatory compliance.
c) Utilize Return Agreements
Operators should ensure all imported sources include a return-to-supplier agreement prior to acquisition. Upon the end of a source’s useful life, the preferred management option is to return it to the manufacturer for proper disposal or recycling.
d) Incident Reporting and Response
Facilities are required to document emergency plans for response to events tailored to site-specific risks. Some of the events that warrant reporting include, fire, theft, loss of a radioactive source or spillage of radioactive material. As such, the Radiation Safety Officer (RSO) is supposed to implement the documented procedures of reporting incidents to AEC which may include initiating an internal response and search protocol and document both incident corrective actions taken. Timely communication with authorities is crucial to avoid accidental exposure or malicious use.
e) Regular Wipe Testing
Each sealed source must undergo a wipe test every 12 months. If any leakage is detected the source must be isolated immediately, AEC must be informed without delay, proper containment, decontamination, and repair conducted under supervision of a qualified individual or team.
f) Training and Nuclear Security Culture
Operators and staff must receive continuous training in DSRS handling, incident response, and emergency procedures. Training should emphasize identification of suspicious items, Proper notification channels (AEC, Uganda Police Force), avoiding direct handling or transport by untrained individuals and instilling a strong nuclear security culture.
 g) Transportation of Disused Sources
In case the disused sources are to be transported from one place to another, the exercise must be in accordance with the Atomic Energy Council requirements that govern transport of radioactive sources.
h) Carrying out radiation survey measurements
Radiation survey measurements should be routinely conducted especially where they are stored to verify their presence and for other safety reasons. Results of surveys should be maintained.
By following this guidance and working in collaboration with the Atomic Energy Council, operators can help safeguard public health, national security, and the environment. In doing so, Uganda will contribute to global nuclear safety and security while reducing risks to current and future generations.
a) Implement Site Security Measures
Facilities storing disused sealed radioactive sources (DSRS) must apply graded security controls based on the categorization of the source. Such measures may include:
- Implementing 24/7 surveillance, including CCTV in storage areas
- Installing tamper detections for Category 1 & 2 sources
- Documenting and implementing access controls and documentation procedures including visitor control, escort policies, and entry logs
- Implementing a two-person rule for handling access to vital areas
- Installing and maintain perimeter lighting that enhances visibility for security personnel
- Documented emergency response plans, tailored to site-specific risks
b) Maintain Accurate Inventory and Records
Operators must maintain detailed and up-to-date records for each radioactive source, including date of acquisition, source type and activity level, physical form, location, Transfer, disposal, or return history. This record should be routinely verified and submitted to the Atomic Energy Council (AEC) as part of regulatory compliance.
c) Utilize Return Agreements
Operators should ensure all imported sources include a return-to-supplier agreement prior to acquisition. Upon the end of a source’s useful life, the preferred management option is to return it to the manufacturer for proper disposal or recycling.
d) Incident Reporting and Response
Facilities are required to document emergency plans for response to events tailored to site-specific risks. Some of the events that warrant reporting include, fire, theft, loss of a radioactive source or spillage of radioactive material. As such, the Radiation Safety Officer (RSO) is supposed to implement the documented procedures of reporting incidents to AEC which may include initiating an internal response and search protocol and document both incident corrective actions taken. Timely communication with authorities is crucial to avoid accidental exposure or malicious use.
e) Regular Wipe Testing
Each sealed source must undergo a wipe test every 12 months. If any leakage is detected the source must be isolated immediately, AEC must be informed without delay, proper containment, decontamination, and repair conducted under supervision of a qualified individual or team.
f) Training and Nuclear Security Culture
Operators and staff must receive continuous training in DSRS handling, incident response, and emergency procedures. Training should emphasize identification of suspicious items, Proper notification channels (AEC, Uganda Police Force), avoiding direct handling or transport by untrained individuals and instilling a strong nuclear security culture.
 g) Transportation of Disused Sources
In case the disused sources are to be transported from one place to another, the exercise must be in accordance with the Atomic Energy Council requirements that govern transport of radioactive sources.
h) Carrying out radiation survey measurements
Radiation survey measurements should be routinely conducted especially where they are stored to verify their presence and for other safety reasons. Results of surveys should be maintained.
By following this guidance and working in collaboration with the Atomic Energy Council, operators can help safeguard public health, national security, and the environment. In doing so, Uganda will contribute to global nuclear safety and security while reducing risks to current and future generations.
SRS are commonly used in different practices for diagnostics and cancer treatment, Non-Destructive Testing (NDT), level, thickness, and density gauging, research and education, agricultural studies amongst others.
Introduction
Sealed Radioactive Sources (SRSs) play a vital role across numerous sectors globally, including medicine, industry, agriculture, education, and research. In Uganda, they are commonly employed in medical applications for diagnostics and cancer treatment, industrial use in Non-Destructive Testing (NDT), level, thickness, and density gauging, research and education, agricultural studies and scientific experimentation.
When these sources no longer serve the intended purpose they are considered disused. This may be as a result of low activity, compromise in the shielding, technological change or when the equipment becomes obsolete. Despite being disused, these sources often remain radioactive and pose significant hazards if not properly managed. Misuse, theft, or improper disposal can lead to acute radiation injuries or death, long-term health effects such as cancer, environmental contamination and significant financial costs for decontamination, medical care, and waste management.
According to Regulation 83 (1) of the Atomic Energy Regulations, 2012, authorized persons upon purchase of sealed radioactive sources are required to make contractual arrangements for the return of disused sealed sources to the manufacturer or supplier. However, this may not be realized immediately. As such, arrangements that ensure safe and secure storage of these disused sealed radioactive source should be employed. These requirements are similar to those established for radioactive sources that are active; and they include but not limited to;
a) Implement Site Security Measures
Facilities storing disused sealed radioactive sources (DSRS) must apply graded security controls based on the categorization of the source. Such measures may include:
- Implementing 24/7 surveillance, including CCTV in storage areas
- Installing tamper detections for Category 1 & 2 sources
- Documenting and implementing access controls and documentation procedures including visitor control, escort policies, and entry logs
- Implementing a two-person rule for handling access to vital areas
- Installing and maintain perimeter lighting that enhances visibility for security personnel
- Documented emergency response plans, tailored to site-specific risks
b) Maintain Accurate Inventory and Records
Operators must maintain detailed and up-to-date records for each radioactive source, including date of acquisition, source type and activity level, physical form, location, Transfer, disposal, or return history. This record should be routinely verified and submitted to the Atomic Energy Council (AEC) as part of regulatory compliance.
c) Utilize Return Agreements
Operators should ensure all imported sources include a return-to-supplier agreement prior to acquisition. Upon the end of a source’s useful life, the preferred management option is to return it to the manufacturer for proper disposal or recycling.
d) Incident Reporting and Response
Facilities are required to document emergency plans for response to events tailored to site-specific risks. Some of the events that warrant reporting include, fire, theft, loss of a radioactive source or spillage of radioactive material. As such, the Radiation Safety Officer (RSO) is supposed to implement the documented procedures of reporting incidents to AEC which may include initiating an internal response and search protocol and document both incident corrective actions taken. Timely communication with authorities is crucial to avoid accidental exposure or malicious use.
e) Regular Wipe Testing
Each sealed source must undergo a wipe test every 12 months. If any leakage is detected the source must be isolated immediately, AEC must be informed without delay, proper containment, decontamination, and repair conducted under supervision of a qualified individual or team.
f) Training and Nuclear Security Culture
Operators and staff must receive continuous training in DSRS handling, incident response, and emergency procedures. Training should emphasize identification of suspicious items, Proper notification channels (AEC, Uganda Police Force), avoiding direct handling or transport by untrained individuals and instilling a strong nuclear security culture.
 g) Transportation of Disused Sources
In case the disused sources are to be transported from one place to another, the exercise must be in accordance with the Atomic Energy Council requirements that govern transport of radioactive sources.
h) Carrying out radiation survey measurements
Radiation survey measurements should be routinely conducted especially where they are stored to verify their presence and for other safety reasons. Results of surveys should be maintained.
By following this guidance and working in collaboration with the Atomic Energy Council, operators can help safeguard public health, national security, and the environment. In doing so, Uganda will contribute to global nuclear safety and security while reducing risks to current and future generations.
