Publications Details
Development of an international security standard for devices containing high-activity radioactive sources
Radioisotopes such as Cs-137 and Co-60 are utilized in various medical, industrial, and research applications. This radiological material can be a theft or sabotage target, which necessitates a certain level of security to adequately protect it. The presented work will explore the necessity of an international security standard for devices used in clinical settings that contain high activity radiological material and the facilities that contain these devices. This standard intends to complement existing safety standards; however, it serves a very different purpose: to reduce the threat of radiological theft and sabotage while taking into full consideration the effect on the patient, user safety, and patient workflow with the aim to minimize the unwanted effects of the security measures. The proposed standard will complement existing International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) guidance, published in the IAEA Nuclear Security Series. While those documents primarily focus on the state, competent authorities, and regulatory agencies, the proposed industry standard will involve device manufacturers, source producers, and medical staff.