Malta undergoes IAEA review of radiological safety system with Moroccan participation

Thursday 04 - 10:45

Malta has undergone an international review of its radiological safety and nuclear security framework conducted by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), with the participation of experts from several countries, including Morocco.

The mission took place from May 24 to June 3 under the Integrated Regulatory Review Service (IRRS), which evaluates national systems governing the safe use of ionizing radiation. Although Malta does not operate nuclear power plants or research reactors, it relies on radioactive sources mainly in medical, industrial, and other civilian applications.

The review team included specialists from Argentina, Greece, Mauritius, Morocco, Portugal, and Thailand. It assessed Malta’s legal and institutional framework, licensing procedures, inspection mechanisms, and safety measures designed to protect patients, workers, and the general public.

The mission was hosted by Malta’s Radiation Protection Commission (RPC), which oversees regulatory control in this field. Experts also met government officials and visited key facilities, including the Sir Anthony Mamo Oncology Centre at Mater Dei Hospital and the Centralized Radioactive Waste Storage Facility.

The participation of a Moroccan expert highlighted Morocco’s growing role in international peer review mechanisms under the IAEA, reflecting its expanding expertise in radiation protection and nuclear safety regulation.

According to the mission leadership, the assessment confirmed that Malta’s regulatory system is aligned with international safety standards while also promoting valuable exchanges of best practices among participating countries.

Among the strengths identified were strong cooperation between regulators and government authorities, as well as the multidisciplinary composition of Malta’s regulatory council, which enhances decision-making quality and oversight effectiveness.

Experts also praised the country’s strict criteria for recognizing radiation protection specialists, considered essential for ensuring safe practices in medical and industrial applications.

However, the report also outlined areas for improvement. It recommended the development of a comprehensive national nuclear safety policy and strategy to strengthen the long-term resilience of Malta’s regulatory framework.

The IAEA further advised reinforcing the institutional independence of the Radiation Protection Commission by clearly separating regulatory functions from waste management responsibilities. This separation is seen as essential to avoid potential conflicts of interest.

Additional recommendations include improving human resources planning in the sector and enhancing public communication mechanisms regarding radiation risks and regulatory decisions.

A final report will be submitted to the Maltese government in the coming months, detailing all findings and recommendations in line with international safety standards aimed at protecting people and the environment from the harmful effects of ionizing radiation.