OSCE helps Ukraine enhance radiation control at borders

Two new reference publications on radiological control developed with the help of the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Ukraine were presented to Ukraine’s State Environmental Inspectorate on 15 October 2013.

The publications will help improve knowledge and skills of the relevant agencies’ personnel in the monitoring of loads of potentially radioactive substances, crossing the country’s borders, and detecting radiation.

Radiological control is increasingly becoming an essential part of any country’s security. The purpose of such control at borders is to manage the flow of dangerous materials which may threaten people’s health and lives. While in some cases radiation may be emitted by metal scrap or materials for industry use, it can also be an indication of a trafficking attempt with criminal or even terrorism purposes.

The Workbook on Radiation Control Issues will be a useful reference source for border guards and environmental inspectors, as it contains a compilation of legal acts, instructions and prescribed procedures for monitoring radiation in trans-border cargo shipments.  The publication also provides examples of documents to be filled by inspectors and recommendations on personnel security measures.

The publication Radiological Control Cards is a guide into radioactive materials, procedures of their identification and security measures. Its small format will make it easier to use by inspectors and border guards performing load checks at the border crossings.

Both publications were developed by Ukrainian experts in 2013 as part of OSCE Project Co-ordinator’s support to the country’s authorities in strengthening capacity of its border control agencies and ensuring the environmental security.