As previously reported, the Nuclear and Radiation Safety Centre, with the support of European and American partners, has transported 40 high-activity radioactive sources from the Ashtarak Institute of Physical Research to the storage facilities of the “Radioactive Waste Management” CJSC.The process was organised in accordance with international safety standards, ensuring the safe collection, packaging and transportation of the sources.This initiative is another important step in improving Armenia’s radiation safety and applying international best practices. Watch the report by Armenian Public TV.
The Nuclear and Radiation Safety Centre conducted a training course titled “Radiation Protection and the Safe Use of Radioactive Sources.” The course was attended by nine employees from the Field Experimental Laboratory of the Engineering and Technical Centre of Gazprom Armenia CJSC. The participants were introduced to key principles of radiation safety, including the safe handling of radioactive materials, radiation monitoring techniques, and the proper use of personal protective equipment. The training was specifically designed for professionals involved in the import, export, production, use, transportation, or storage of ionising radiation sources or radiation-generating devices across various sectors, including industry, agriculture, scientific research, and education. The training covered the following topics: After the course, each participant received a certificate recognising their knowledge and skills in radiation protection and the safe use of radioactive sources. NRSC continues to implement similar training initiatives aimed at enhancing professional qualifications and reinforcing radiation safety standards throughout Armenia.
The Nuclear and Radiation Safety Centre, in cooperation with Radioactive Waste Management CJSC, is carrying out the removal and neutralisation of radioactive sources found in Soviet-era smoke detectors. These efforts aim to ensure the long-term and safe storage of such materials. During the Soviet period, smoke detectors containing radioactive isotopes were widely used across Armenia. In recent years, as part of several international assistance programs, the NRSC has identified and removed many of these devices from the premises of various Armenian organisations. The recovered detectors have been transferred to a secure storage facility. NRSC specialists carefully extract the radioactive sources from these detectors and place them into specialised containers designed for long-term safe storage. Organisations that may still have old smoke detectors on their premises are encouraged to contact the NRSC to ensure proper removal and handling. Tel: 010541719
Although Iran’s nuclear facilities are not located near Armenia’s borders, a large-scale incident could potentially lead to the spread of radioactive substances, depending on wind patterns and the nature of the explosions. What monitoring capabilities does Armenia have? How is radiation monitored, where and how often does it take place, and what have recent measurements shown? Are there any risks for the population? These questions are addressed by Armen Amirjanyan, Director of the Nuclear and Radiation Safety Centre; Karen Haroyan, Senior Specialist at the Radiological Laboratory; and Khachatur Khachikyan, Acting Chairman of the Nuclear Safety Regulatory Committee of the Republic of Armenia.
