With approximately 2,500 facilities and 500 radioactive sources classified by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) as categories 1 and 2, Brazil faces significant challenges in implementing nuclear security measures at radiological facilities. The country has more than 100 industrial radiography radioactive sources in operation, playing a crucial role in the quality control of various materials and parts. These sources, classified as category 2 by the IAEA, involve an inherent radiological risk, as they use sources of Iridium-192, Selenium75 and Cobalt-60, with high activities and are responsible for a large part of radiological accidents in the world, as presented by IAEA. Despite the risk in using industrial radiography, the irradiators stand out for being effective, compact, mobile and independent of electrical energy, optimizing non-destructive testing (NDT) processes, and feature intrinsic security technology for radiological protection and nuclear security. One example is QSA Global's SENTINEL™ model, which is widely used in the country. The choice of models varies according to the needs of companies and local regulations, and in Brazil is subject to strict control by CNEN. Global concerns about the harmful effects of radiation are driven by the challenges of diverting radioactive material for malicious purposes. According to IAEA data from 1993 to 2022, 4,075 incidents were recorded worldwide, 62% of which were related to loss or theft during transport. In 2022, 3.5% of robberies were confirmed to be drug-related, 8.5% unrelated and 88% remain undetermined. Vehicles that transport industrial radiography irradiators are often the target of robbery, theft, or loss, resulting in the possible loss of the radioactive source. In 2012, in Brazil, an irradiator containing a source of Se-75 was stolen, but fortunately recovered 72 hours later with its shielding intact, avoiding emergencies or accidental exposures. This incident highlights the crucial importance of robust security measures when transporting these irradiators within the country. Concerns about the malicious use of radioactive sources, potentially in "dirty bombs", highlight the crucial need for safe management of these materials to prevent illicit trafficking and mitigate risks of misuse, contributing to reducing global tension. Technologies such as GPS and the Mobile Source Transit Security (MSTS) system provide continuous monitoring and security during transport. In 2019, through standard NN2.06, CNEN established regulatory requirements for Nuclear Security Systems, which includes the practice of radiography and transport of radioactive sources. Despite progress, specialized training in Brazil has not yet reached the ideal and cooperation with institutions such as the World Institute for Nuclear Security (WINS) can increase the expertise of the professionals involved, ensuring global understanding in physical protection of radioactive sources. The Brazil-US international collaboration with the non-destructive testing (NDT) company Maxim Technology and Industrial Inspection Ltd (MAXIM) and the National Nuclear Security Administration/Office of Radiological Security (NNSA/ORS), resulted in innovations, highlighting the commitment Brazilian with the security of radioactive sources. This cooperation has strengthened nuclear security in Brazilian radiological facilities, consolidating partnerships between governments, the private sector and academia, minimizing impacts and providing a comprehensive approach to identifying and resolving challenges.
Year
2024
Abstract