UAE helps strengthen international nuclear emergency response

The UAE has joined an international network, which provides assistance to countries during a nuclear or radiological emergency.

The Response and Assistance Network (RANET) was established by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in 2000 and since then 43 nations have registered their capabilities, on areas including medical support, radiation survey and other technical aspects.

The UAE’s capabilities are now available for any IAEA member state to request assistance in the case of a nuclear or radiological emergency, which may be provided following UAE approvals process.

RANET capabilities registered by the UAE include radiation survey, sampling and analysis, radiological assessment and advice, medical support, and nuclear installation assessment and advice.

In addition to the Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (FANR), four UAE entities have had their capabilities registered under RANET: Nawah Energy Company; Abu Dhabi Quality and Conformity Council; Al Dhannah Hospital and Medinat Zayed Hospital.

"This showcases the exemplary standard that the country has reached in the field of emergency preparedness and response, and points to the confidence of the IAEA and its member states in the UAE’s capabilities in this field, following years of close cooperation with the IAEA through the hosting of workshops and the country’s participation in a variety of exercises organised by the Agency," said Christer Viktorsson, FANR’s Director-General.

Since its inception in 2009, FANR has developed, issued and revised regulations and regulatory guides for nuclear and radiological emergency preparedness and response matters, in line with its mandate to protect the public and the environment.