Crisis experts test radiation-detection devices

Emergency management experts today will learn how to use radiation detection devices to protect the public from harm.

ABU DHABI // Local emergency crisis and management officials are testing out radiation detection devices today during a workshop at the Armed Forces Officers Club and Hotel.
The event is aimed at protecting the public, workers and the environment from radiation hazards. The Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (FANR) and the US Department of Energy's National Nuclear Security Administration are the hosts.

Radioactive materials are used for many industrial and medical applications, such as digging oil wells or to diagnose and cure cancer.
The devices that are being tested today can detect and pinpoint radioactive sources that have gone out of regulatory control, and that pose a danger to the public.

Hidden radiation sources can be found in the possession of people suspected of terrorist activity at airports or border crossings, or buried underground in long-forgotten waste facilities.
Today's workshop is based on FANR's mission to build up expertise and safety in the UAE. Experts from several federal entities that deal with emergency and  crisis management are taking part in the event, which consists of both classroom lectures and hands-on experience with radiation-detection devices.

In one exercise session this afternoon, participants will try to find hidden radiation sources with the new equipment they have just learned how to use.

[e-mail]