Two new virtual tours are letting visitors step inside specialized IAEA laboratories to explore the science and technology behind radiation safety and nuclear security activities.
From monitoring people and places for potential radiation exposure, to maintaining equipment to support national nuclear security operations, these laboratories combine state-of-the-art technologies, training and international collaboration, to strengthen global security and keep those involved in IAEA activities safe in their work.
Workplace Monitoring Laboratory
An IAEA Radiation Monitoring Technician takes a large area surface sample for radiological monitoring. (Photo: D.Calma/IAEA)
The IAEA's Workplace Monitoring Laboratory in Seibersdorf, assesses radiation levels in all laboratories at the Seibersdorf site to ensure a safe environment for IAEA workers who could potentially be exposed.
Laboratory technicians monitor work surfaces, equipment and the air for radiation, and ensure the safe handling of radioactive sources. They also calibrate radiation monitoring instruments and provide 24 hour on-call assistance in case of incidents or emergencies at the IAEA's laboratories in Seibersdorf.
"The tour gives visitors the chance to learn about the rigorous radiation safety checks carried out on a daily basis and offers entry to the irradiation bunker, a specially designed room for calibrating monitoring equipment," explained Miroslav Pinak, Head of the IAEA Radiation Safety and Monitoring Section.
It complements the tour of the IAEA's Individual Monitoring Laboratory in Vienna, which monitors over 3000 occupationally exposed workers annually to ensure activities are conducted safely during IAEA activities worldwide.
Nuclear Security Detection and Monitoring Equipment Laboratory
The Nuclear Security Detection and Monitoring Equipment Laboratory at IAEA Headquarters in Vienna helps countries better detect and respond to nuclear security threats. From testing and maintenance to training and procurement, the laboratory plays a key role in ensuring that radiation detection equipment is functional, reliable and ready for use.
The laboratory provides countries with advanced radiation detection equipment, which can be deployed at major public events, such as international conferences and sporting tournaments, as part of nuclear security measures. The equipment helps security personnel detect and respond to potential nuclear security threats.
"The immersive tour offers a glimpse of the laboratory environment and shows the different types of radiation detection instruments available in the laboratory," said Itimad Soufi, Head of the IAEA Nuclear Section of Material Outside of Regulatory Control. She added that "through the virtual stroll, the users can explore detection technologies and learn how equipment is maintained and tested."
By demonstrating laboratory setups and procedures, and how equipment operates, the tours provide a useful educational resource for those involved in radiation safety and nuclear security planning and response, offering an interactive experience for policymakers, industry professionals and the public.
Find the nuclear safety and security tours here.
