Sri Lanka Atomic Energy Regulatory Council hosted National Workshop on Risk Considerations for Alternative Technologies and Regulatory Development

The Sri Lanka Atomic Energy Regulatory Council (SLAERC), in collaboration with the Office of Radiological Security (ORS) of the United States Department of Energy (US DOE) and the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL), successfully conducted the "Sri Lanka Risk Considerations for Alternative Technologies Pilot Workshop and Regulatory Development Consultation" from 4–6 August 2026 at the Hilton Hotel, Colombo.

The programme brought together few national stakeholders, regulatory officials, technical experts, and representatives of legal authorities to discuss the implementation of alternative technologies and the associated regulatory considerations.

The first two days of the programme focused on increasing awareness of alternative technologies, examining international frameworks, and identifying challenges related to the adoption of these technologies in Sri Lanka. Discussions also explored the role of regulatory authorities in encouraging the safe and secure transition to alternative technologies while maintaining effective radiation protection and nuclear security arrangements.

Sessions were conducted by distinguished experts, including Ms. Jenn Hart, Ms. Lucy Groves and Ms. Madalina Man, who shared their international experience and technical expertise in the fields of radiological security, regulatory development, and policy implementation.

The third day of the event concentrated on regulatory development and the enhancement of Sri Lanka's existing regulatory framework governing the security of radioactive sources. Particular attention was given to the IAEA Code of Conduct on the Safety and Security of Radioactive Sources, supplementary guidance documents, principles of regulatory drafting, and recommendations for strengthening the national regulations issued in 2022 concerning the security of radioactive sources during manufacture, use, and storage.

This workshop further strengthened the long-standing cooperation between SLAERC, the US DOE, ORS and PNNL while reaffirming Sri Lanka's commitment to enhancing nuclear and radiological safety and security and promoting the adoption of innovative technologies that reduce dependence on high-activity radioactive sources.

SLAERC expresses its sincere appreciation to the US DOE, ORS, and PNNL for their continued support in strengthening Sri Lanka's national regulatory infrastructure and promoting international cooperation in the peaceful and secure use of nuclear technology.

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.

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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.

Session “Scientific Talks” Conducted in July 2026

The 7^th session on “Scientific Talks” has been successfully conducted on 8^th July 2026 at the SLAERC Auditorium. All the Scientific staff members of the Council were participated in that session.

The “Scientific Talks",which is the event commencing by the SLAERC to promote and maintain the scientific culture among the scientific staff of SLAERC and to enhance the knowledge management program of the regulating body.

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In that talk, following topics were presented.

Implementation of International Radiation Monitoring System (IRMIS) by Mr.H.J.Premakumara,Deputy Director(Inspection and Enforcement)
Alternative Technology vs DSRS Management by Mrs.Chamini Herath,(Authorization-Industrial Applications & Import/Export)
Universalization on Convention on Physical Protection of Nuclear Material and its amendment by Mr. K.S.S. Kumara, Acting Director
Importance of attending IAEA meetings and Regulatory Conferences by Mr.Prageeth Kadadunna,Director (Inspection and Enforcement)

Talking time for each topic per presenter was 20 minutes.

Q&A session against each presenter was 15 minutes.

This session was found and led by Mr. Sumith Kolambage, Acting Director to poster the scientific culture at the SLAERC.

The next session will be held August 2026.