Journal of Medical Physics and Applied Sciences

Developing Radiation Safety Culture in Ghana - The Role of the Radiation Protection Institute of Ghana

Due to the harmful nature of ionizing radiation, the Radiation Protection Institute (RPI) of the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC), among other objectives provides radiation protection and consultancy; public exposure control; nuclear safety and security and radioactive waste management. In line with these objectives, the Radioactive Waste Management Center of the RPI conducts on- site radiation safety assessment for sectors of the economy where radiation sources are applied. The Center also retrieves and transports Disused Sealed Radioactive Sources (DSRSs) from end users to the Centralized Radioactive Waste Management Facility (CRWMF) for further management. Through the Radiation Protection Training and Consultancy Centre (RPTCC), the RPI conducts training program for occupationally exposed workers and sensitization of the general public on radiation safety. These activities of the RPI are guided by its comprehensive radiation protection program and robust quality management system which are systematically exploited to establish radiation safety culture in Ghana. Data from the RPI indicates that, between 1993 and 2020, about 984 occupationally exposed persons from 85 local firms have acquired radiation safety/protection training. This article further highlights other activities relating to quality service and radiation safety mechanisms for users, transporters and managers of radiation sources.

Author(s):

Abdallah MA Dawood*, Eric T Glover and EO Darko

Abstract | Full-Text | PDF

Share this