National Workshop on Nuclear Security Culture Successfully Conducted by SLAERC
The Sri Lanka Atomic Energy Regulatory Council (SLAERC) successfully conducted a National Workshop on Nuclear Security Culture on 30–31 July 2026 at the Sheraton Colombo Hotel, in collaboration with the Sandia National Laboratories and the Office of Radiological Security (ORS), United States Department of Energy (US DOE).
The two-day workshop brought together representatives from organizations involved in the use, management, and security of radioactive materials across Sri Lanka. The programme was organized with the objective of strengthening participants’ understanding of nuclear security culture as a fundamental component of protecting radioactive materials, associated facilities, and activities against malicious acts.
Throughout the workshop, participants explored key concepts and principles related to nuclear security culture, emerging radiological security threats, human factors influencing security performance, leadership responsibilities, and international best practices for establishing and sustaining an effective security culture within organizations.
Particular emphasis was placed on the understanding that nuclear security culture extends beyond physical protection measures. An effective security culture depends on the commitment, awareness, responsibility, and accountability of every individual involved in the use, management, and protection of radioactive materials. Developing positive attitudes and security-conscious behaviors among personnel is essential to identifying vulnerabilities, preventing security incidents, and strengthening the overall security of radioactive materials and associated facilities.
The workshop also provided an important platform for participants to share experiences, exchange knowledge, discuss practical challenges, and identify opportunities for improving security practices within their respective organizations. The discussions further contributed to strengthening cooperation and coordination among national stakeholders with responsibilities related to nuclear and radiological security.
The knowledge and experience gained through the workshop are expected to contribute to the continued development of a strong nuclear security culture within organizations across Sri Lanka. Strengthening such a culture is an essential element of the country's efforts to ensure the safe and secure use of radioactive materials and to enhance national preparedness against potential radiological security threats.
SLAERC expresses its sincere appreciation to the Office of Radiological Security (ORS) of the United States Department of Energy (US DOE) and Sandia National Laboratories for their valuable technical cooperation, expertise, and continued support towards strengthening Sri Lanka’s national nuclear security capabilities.
This is one of the main event conducted by SLAERC to strengthen nuclear security in Sri Lanka.