Speaker
Description
The purpose of this paper is to present the results of Cuba's experience in establishing the principles that were taken into consideration in order to evaluate the effectiveness of the process of establishing an effective synergy between safety and security during the transportation of radioactive material.
One of the riskiest activities during the use of radioactive materials is related to the transport of these materials, mainly because they are carried out in the public domain, and control systems must be more comprehensive and rigorous to prevent malicious acts.
Synergy between safety and security in the transport of radioactive materials is not optional, is a fundamental requirement. As our regulatory framework and case studies demonstrate, only through an integrated approach that considers both radiological risks and nuclear security threats can truly safe transport be guaranteed.
This synergy has an important role in the case of Cuba because, despite being a small country, there are two competent authorities: the Ministry of Science Technology and Environment in matters of radiation safety and the Ministry of the Interior in matters related to the security of nuclear materials and radioactive sources. Therefore, effective coordination is needed in the fulfillment of the functions of each of them without detriment to either one over the other.
This synergy has been achieved in the first instance through the creation of a security committee and the constant exchange of information, based above all on a well-defined organizational structure, where the obligations and responsibilities of each of the authorities are established in national regulations and joint audits and inspections are carried out, as well as coordination in responding to possible incidents related to sources.
Other aspects that are taken into consideration are the technologies used by both authorities, the handling and evaluation of the response of these systems, as well as the joint interpretation of the signals received. In addition, there is close cooperation between both authorities on staff training issues through the development of training programs and the creation and sustainability of a Nuclear Security Support Center. These aspects are discussed periodically in security committee.
Conclusion
As a result of this coordination, new national regulations are being reviewed and published, with both authorities participating in their creation, and we believe that the management of the risk of incidents related to the commission of malicious acts during the transportation of radioactive materials has been significantly improved.
