As radiation detection systems have been increasingly deployed at seaports over the past decade, it has become clear that the removal of radioactive and nuclear Material Out of Regulatory Control (MORC) from the maritime supply is a complex issue that poses challenges for many nations. This workshop developed ways to promote radiation detection in maritime supply chain; and enhance measures for the removal of MORC.
Specific objectives of this meeting were to:
- Identify the benefits of radiation detection systems at containerized shipping ports, and find ways to build or enhance radiation detection capacity there.
- Highlight the different responses to detected materials (ie threat and non-threat materials), and identify lessons learned for the identification and removal of threat material in maritime detection
- Ensure port capabilities are effectively integrated in detection architecture
- Review the major capabilities that need to be in place in order to respond to and ultimately resolve the detection of threat materials (eg crime scene management, interagency communication, forensics)
- Discuss the implication for dealing with non-threat MORC detections
- Explore common problems for removing non-threat MORC from the international maritime shipping system
- Identify measures to lessen the operational burden of safely adjudicating non-threat MORC
- Address options for disposition of seized MORC
- Explore information management needs, requirements, and mechanisms
- Identify mechanisms to facilitate communication between maritime shipping stakeholders to identify “repeat” offender
- Discuss what notification protocols are necessary for removing MORC (e.g. threat and non-threat materials)
- Discuss different cost recovery, penalty, and fine options
- Discuss national/international regulatory guidance and/or requirements pros and cons
- Explore different roles and responsibilities for international organizations
