disused sealed radioactive source

Satine Vardanyan, Leading Specialist of the Radiological Laboratory of the Nuclear and Radiation Safety Centre, participated in the Technical Meeting of the Disused Sealed Radioactive Sources Network (DSRS-Net) organised by the IAEA. The purpose of this meeting was to promote international cooperation in the field of safe management of disused sealed radioactive sources (DSRS) among member states. During the meeting, both the organisers and participants delivered presentations, sharing their experiences in DSRS management. IAEA experts presented the ongoing programs in this field, professional forums and platforms, as well as various IAEA electronic tools (eTools) developed to support member states in strengthening their capacities in this area. More detailed information was provided on the different professional forums included in the IAEA Network. They aim to create a joint platform for member states, where national capabilities and experiences in the field can be presented and shared, problematic issues discussed, and international best practices explored in collaboration with experts from other countries as well as relevant IAEA specialists. Through these platforms, member states can also access IAEA support within the framework of various programs. The forums are intended to bring together experts, regulatory bodies, operators, and research institutions, thereby fostering knowledge exchange and the application of international best practices. The representative of the NRSC presented Armenia’s experience and professional potential in the management of disused sealed radioactive sources. Such meetings are important as they contribute to cooperation with international experts, knowledge sharing, discussions, and the creation of opportunities for joint initiatives. For Armenia, these opportunities are especially important, as the country has accumulated spent nuclear fuel over the years, for which urgent steps are required to ensure long-term and safe management.