Training requirements for transport operators and personnel: towards an optimal international approach

Radioactive isotopes are used worldwide for industrial applications, research purposes, medical diagnostics and therapy. In almost all cases, the place of production of the isotopes differs from the place of use. Hence, transport of these materials is an important factor in the supply chain. During transportation radioactive isotopes are brought outside of the controlled areas and in the public domain, and specific attention needs to be given to the safe handling. Moreover, transport is very often organised across national borders which makes an international approach essential. Several international regulations and recommendations regarding the safe transport of radioisotopes exist since decades and are revised on a regular basis. All of them give specific attention to the training of carriers and operators, as this is seen as one of the factors that improves the safe transportation. This paper gives an overview of the different regulations and guidelines regarding transport of radioactive materials in general and regarding the training requirements for transport operators and personnel, and of the implementation at national level.