An IAEA Disused Sealed Radioactive Sources Technical Centres (DSRS-TeC) peer review mission concluded in Slovenia this month, marking the country's first comprehensive examination of its procedures for managing disused sealed radioactive sources for the Agency for Radioactive Waste Management (ARAO). The mission, conducted at ARAO from 30 September to 2 October in Ljubljana, Slovenia, and comprised a team of two external experts along with two IAEA specialists.
Launched last year, DSRS-TeC is a specialized IAEA peer review service that helps countries review operational standards and disused sealed radioactive sources (DSRS) management practices. It provides an independent review of current practices and offers suggestions for strengthened management over time. The review is focused on the early stages of source handling and aims to support countries in enhancing their standards and effectiveness in managing DSRSs.
"ARAO's extensive experience and commitment to internationally recognized quality management principles have contributed to a high level of operational excellence and quality management system," said Vivian Pereira Campos, a DSRS Specialist in the IAEA's Department of Nuclear Energy. "Work procedures and instructions are guided by national legislations as well as complying with requirements outlined by IAEA guidance as well as EURATOM and European Council directives. ARAO actively fosters a positive and collaborative relationship with the IAEA by regularly welcoming fellowships and scientific visits, and by sharing their expertise and experience."
One significant outcome of the review was the mission team's observation that ARAO has identified a clear end-point solution for DSRS in Slovenia. ARAO plans to dispose of DSRSs at the low- and intermediate-level waste facility. For sources that do not meet the waste acceptance criteria for disposal, the option of co-disposal with spent nuclear fuel in a deep geological repository is being considered, reflecting ARAO's progressive approach to radioactive waste management. Additionally, it was observed that the reuse of DSRSs and their return to an authorized supplier is widely implemented in Slovenia which further strengthens the country's commitment to responsible and efficient radioactive source management practices.
The final report included several suggestions and highlighted good practices, underscoring ARAO's proactive stance on comprehensive safe and secure DSRS management.
"The added value of the review mission lies above all in the independent assessment of our activities and the confirmation that our procedures align with international best practices. The feedback from recognized experts will further elevate our efforts," said Sandi Virsek, CEO of ARAO. "Since taking on this role, capacity building has been a key objective for me, and I am proud that we have achieved significant progress in this area within such a short timeframe."
About the DSRS-TeC Peer Review Mission
ARAO staff characterizing and dismantling a moisture density gauge during the DSRS-TeC peer review mission in Ljubljana, Slovenia. (Photo: ARAO)
The DSRS-TeC peer review is designed to assist Member State organizations and institutions tasked with handling DSRSs, helping to enhance Member States' operational standards and the performance of their DSRS management activities.
The scope of the DSRS-TeC peer review covers all agreed upon operational aspects related to the management of Category 3 to 5 DSRSs, from the time the sources are declared as disused up to disposal, including collection, characterization, conditioning, transport, and storage. Mission activities include hands-on demonstrations and site visits.
Learn more about the IAEA's review missions and advisory services.
