الشارقة 24:
The Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (FANR) recently convened the 48th meeting of the Radiation Protection Committee, presided over by H.E. Hamad Al Kaabi, Director General of the Authority. This collaborative gathering included representatives from both federal and local government entities, focusing on the latest developments in national radiation protection initiatives.
National Dose Registry Overview
During the meeting, FANR presented its National Dose Registry, a centralised system designed to record and monitor occupational exposure to ionising radiation under normal conditions and in emergencies. This initiative aims to enhance oversight of radiological doses among workers in the UAE by standardising dose data, tracking cumulative occupational exposure, and monitoring unusual exposure cases. The registry currently includes information on approximately 27,000 radiation-exposed workers, ensuring better protection of health professionals and others potentially at risk.
Advancements in Drinking Water Monitoring
The committee also reviewed updates from the Drinking Water Monitoring Team, which has established a 24-month work programme aimed at strengthening the national framework for radiological monitoring of drinking water throughout the UAE. Additionally, the meeting highlighted progress in developing an electronic platform for radiological surveillance, facilitating more efficient data collection and analysis.
Environmental Surveillance Efforts
The National Environmental Monitoring Taskforce provided insights into the national survey measuring radon gas concentration in buildings across the country. The committee discussed ongoing efforts to enhance the capabilities of government laboratories in radiological analysis. These initiatives are instrumental in bolstering national capacities to protect both human health and the environment from radiation hazards, while also increasing readiness in radiation monitoring and assessment.
Enhancing Medical Applications
Meanwhile, the Medical Applications Working Group, chaired by the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, shared updates on the National Diagnostic Reference Levels project, which has been incorporated into government transformation initiatives. The team has successfully gathered national data on various medical imaging techniques from all Emirates, paving the way for updating reference levels that will optimise radiation use and bolster patient protection.
Formation and Objectives of the Radiation Protection Committee
Established in 2011 under the auspices of FANR, the Radiation Protection Committee comprises 17 federal and local government entities. Its mission is to support the development and enhancement of the national infrastructure for radiation protection, foster coordination, build national capacities, and provide guidance on radiation protection policies and related regulatory requirements.