NNSA Conducts Radiological Training for Jordanian, Iraqi Officials
March 08, 2013
WASHINGTON, D.C. – The National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) this week conducted an International Radiological Assistance Program Training for Emergency Response (I-RAPTER) training for Jordanian and Iraqi officials.
The training includes using radiation detection equipment to locate hidden radioactive sources during a practical exercise. At the conclusion of the course, international first responders are able to appropriately respond to incidents involving radioactive material.
“We work across the globe to enhance nuclear and radiological emergency preparedness, and this was an extremely productive training,” said NNSA Associate Administrator for Emergency Operations Joseph J. Krol. “Working jointly with the IAEA to conduct training enables us to leverage our respective capabilities and reach a wider audience. I look forward to increased cooperation with both Jordanian and Iraqi officials in nuclear and radiological emergency preparedness and response.”
The I-RAPTER training, hosted by the Jordanian Government in Amman, Jordan, had 32 participants – 17 from Jordan and 15 from Iraq. The Jordanian participants included representatives from their Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Atomic Energy Commission and Civil Protection. The Iraqi participants included representatives from the Iraq Radiation and Safety Authority, Health Ministry, Environmental Ministry and Civil Protection.
The I-RAPTER training was conducted by personnel from NNSA; NSTec’s Remote Sensing Laboratory from Joint Base Andrews; Sandia National Laboratories, Albuquerque, N.M.; and Mission Support Alliance, Richland, Wash.
One of NNSA’s primary missions is to ensure the safety, security and effectiveness of the U.S. nuclear weapons stockpile without the use of underground nuclear testing. With this expertise, NNSA also provides nuclear emergency response support to local law enforcement, the Department of Homeland Security, the FBI and emergency responders in other countries.
NNSA currently collaborates with more than 80 foreign governments and 10 international organizations, with projects ranging from providing assistance in improving emergency preparedness and response programs, to joint collaborative activities to improve emergency management infrastructure worldwide.
For more information on NNSA’s Office of Emergency Operations, click here.
Established by Congress in 2000, NNSA is a semi-autonomous agency within the U.S. Department of Energy responsible for enhancing national security through the military application of nuclear science. NNSA maintains and enhances the safety, security, reliability and performance of the U.S. nuclear weapons stockpile without nuclear testing; works to reduce global danger from weapons of mass destruction; provides the U.S. Navy with safe and effective nuclear propulsion; and responds to nuclear and radiological emergencies in the U.S. and abroad.
