Thursday, 7 August 2024 – The Safety, Health and Environment National Authority (SHENA) successfully conducted the Radiation Engagement Forum 2025 to enhance regulatory compliance and strengthen engagement with licensees and Radiation Protection Officers (RPOs).

The Forum introduced new requirements for radiation licence applications and RPO registration under the Radiation Protection Act (Cap. 228), reflecting SHENA’s commitment to safeguarding the use of radiation sources in accordance with international standards and Brunei Darussalam’s global obligations.

Additionally, the Forum featured a presentation on the newly simplified licensing procedure, aimed at improving the efficiency of the process and providing clearer guidance to radiation licence applicants. This update is intended to streamline the approval process and enhance understanding for applicants. The updated RPO registration process was also discussed, highlighting the mandatory pre-requisite training on the Radiation Protection Act and the requirement for Continuing Professional Development (CPD) for renewal.

Participants were informed about the shared responsibilities of licensees and RPOs under the Radiation Protection Act (Cap. 228) and the Radiation Protection Programme (RPP). They also discussed management expectations regarding disused radioactive sources, specifically Categories 1 to 3, in line with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Code of Conduct on the Safety and Security of Radioactive Sources.

SHENA referred to its recently published Radiation Technical Note, which mandates licensees to submit Management Plans and provides guidelines for the disposal of disused controlled apparatus.

An overview of enforcement actions indicated that five legal notices were issued within the past year under the Radiation Protection Act (Cap. 228). This included three (3) Stop Work Orders for unlicensed radiation sources and two (2) Remedial Orders addressing delays in licensing and identified system gaps. All cases have been resolved through collaborative efforts with the respective licensees.

Brunei Darussalam reaffirmed its long-standing commitment to the Code of Conduct on the Safety and Security of Radioactive Sources and the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), of which it has been a signatory since 1985.

The Forum also highlighted the recent inauguration of SHENA’s Radiation Dosimetry Service Laboratory (RDSL), making its first locally operated dosimetry service. The laboratory offers personal and area dose monitoring, monthly reports, and urgent analysis services, thereby enhancing national capabilities in radiation exposure management and safety assurance.

SHENA reiterated its ongoing commitment to promoting a culture of workplace safety, compliance, and collaboration across all industries in Brunei Darussalam.