IAEA (International Atomic Energy Agency), had its first training course on customs operations on sealed radioactive sources in the Caribbean region.
During customs operation, participants from Caribbean community (CARICOM) countries examine how to handle and secure radioactive sources.
Jamaica customs agency in Kingston, Jamaica, hosted the course to strengthen the capabilities of regional customs officials in ten countries, Barbados, Belize, Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Guyana, Grenada, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Jamaica, Saint Lucia and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.
Equipment’s and expertise were provided by the hazardous substances regulatory authority (HSRA) and international center for environmental and nuclear sciences (ICENS).
On a daily basis, sealed radioactive sources, such used for industrial applications and cancer treatment are transported. Port authority can prevent unauthorized used and transportation to ensure public safety from radioactive materials, by properly identifying and tracking these sources.
Frontline customs officials are provided with guidance on response procedures and radiation detection techniques by the IAEA training source for the Caribbean region.
Denisha Wildman, senior custom officer at the Jamaica customs agency said to keep our countries – and the wider Caribbean region safe from potential threats is the special responsibility of the front-line workers. The training has provided tools and knowledge to conduct a secure and safe radioactive material detection, crossing borders, and an opportunity to collaborate with other agencies in Jamaica and across the region.
Various topics in relation to customs operation with radioactive sources were covered in the week-long training course. The course introduced participants to the best practices in determining radioactive sources using specialized detection technologies, with an expert-led practical exercises.
Interactive discussions and group exercises as to how to detect, identify and react to these sources at port facilities are conveyed to participants. The knowledge of collaborating between regulatory bodies, customs officials and law enforcement agencies, in the fight to prevent illicit trafficking an unauthorized access to radioactive source. Range of experience and expertise, shared by the participants, contributes to the support and knowledge sharing between the diverse group.
