Kurtis Hinz
CEO TAM International LP
Member of the IAEA Denial of Shipment Working Group
WNTI Member
Captain Simon Chaplin
World Nuclear Transport Institute
Member of the IAEA Denial of Shipment Working Group
Emily Midgley
World Nuclear Transport Institute
Member of the IAEA Denial of Shipment Working Group
The importance of nuclear transport
Nuclear and radioactive shipments play a crucial role in various industries worldwide. Without the shipment of nuclear and radioactive materials, patients may not receive necessary medical treatments, scientific advancements may be hindered, and industrial applications may be disrupted. It is important to recognise the significance of these shipments and the potential consequences of delaying or denying shipments.
In a collaborative effort with industry representatives from Canada, as well as global experts and member states of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Denial of Shipment Working Group, the World Nuclear Transport Institute is actively addressing the issue of delay and denial of shipments and aims for a resolution to keep nuclear moving!
Delay and denial of shipment in Canada
Canada is the home to a robust nuclear power infrastructure, some of the richest uranium reserves in the world and a global leader in medical isotope production. That said, the denial and delay for transportation of these vital materials in Canada are real and significant. It can range from the current rejection of radioactive material on both of the national rail lines to significant restrictions and denials at various Canadian ocean ports. There is also a continued limited fleet of trucking companies that can accommodate the specialization and insurance required to make these shipments. These restrictions are significant and continually threaten the smooth flow of material that is needed in life saving medical technology along with being a massive contributor to carbon free energy production. All these issues combined lead down the path to a fragile supply chain.
The regulatory framework for nuclear transport in Canada
In order to ensure the safe and efficient transportation of nuclear materials in Canada, a strong regulatory framework has been established. The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) is responsible for overseeing the transport of nuclear materials and enforcing regulations to mitigate risks. The regulatory framework includes stringent requirements for packaging, labelling, and documentation, as well as the qualification and training of personnel involved in the transport process. Additionally, the CNSC collaborates with international organisations, such as the IAEA, to harmonise regulations and share best practices. Despite this strict regulatory framework that maintains the highest level of safety and security in transporting nuclear and radioactive materials, the issue of delay and denials of shipments persists.
How is Canada approaching these issues?
The key has been education of our current fleet of carriers and logistics partners. While there has been significant investment in training and education, there continues to be a need for continued education of the public in terms of understanding all aspects of this industry including it’s impeccable safety record and the necessity of nuclear energy to attain our Carbon targets. Part of that education is the need to open more options for the safe and efficient transport options for radioactive material. With education of the necessity of these services as our guiding light, we need to work collaboratively across the industry and government to ensure this vital supply chain remains strong for the industry’s inevitable growth.
To find out more, visit: wnti.co.uk/industry/delays-and-denials-of-shipments/.
