An International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) team of experts said Moldova is committed to strengthening its regulatory framework for radiation safety. The team also noted areas for further enhancement, including strengthening regulatory independence.
The Integrated Regulatory Review Service (IRRS) team concluded a 10-day mission to assess the regulatory safety framework in Moldova. The mission was conducted at the request of the Government of Moldova and hosted by the National Agency for Regulation of Nuclear and Radiological Activities (NARNRA).
Using IAEA safety standards and international good practices, IRRS missions are designed to strengthen the effectiveness of the national regulatory infrastructure, while recognizing the responsibility of each country to ensure nuclear and radiation safety.
“The mission raises awareness about Moldova’s continuous work to enhance regulatory effectiveness,” said team leader Daniel Collins, Director of the United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission’s Division of Materials Safety, Security, State and Tribal Programs. “It shows that the ministries and agencies involved in the regulatory activities are committed to implementing the IAEA safety standards, which serve as the benchmark for IRRS reviews.”
Moldova uses radiation sources in medical and industrial applications, science and research, and has radioactive waste management facilities.
The IRRS review covered areas including responsibilities and functions of the Government; the global nuclear safety regime; the management system and activities of the regulatory body; emergency preparedness and response; radiation sources and radioactive waste management facilities; decommissioning activities; occupational radiation protection; medical exposure; and discharges and material clearance.
Original source: IAEA
Published on 19 December 2018
