Nuclear materials refer to substances that contain radioactive isotopes, such as uranium, plutonium, and other radioactive elements used in nuclear reactors, medical applications, and research.

Nuclear material is usually a solid, spent fuel is in pellet form and is very stable. Other nuclear material is often vitrified, which means it’s mixed with glass to become a solid substance.

Nuclear materials are transported using specialised containers, called flasks, and transport vehicles designed to ensure the safety and security of the materials. These flasks are designed to withstand accidents, minimise the risk of radiation release, and protect the materials from external hazards.

All flasks adhere to International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) standards.

Transporting nuclear materials involves strict safety measures to mitigate potential risks. These measures include robust packaging and container design, adherence to international regulations and guidelines, thorough planning and route selection, and security escorts.

The transportation of nuclear materials is regulated by national and international bodies. For example, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) The Energy Act 2013; The Carriage of Dangerous Goods and Use of Transportable Pressure Equipment Regulations 2009 The Energy Act 2013; Intergovernmental Organisation for International Carriage by Rail (OTIF); Regulations concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Rail (RID).

Precautions include rigorous and continual training for personnel involved in transportation, comprehensive safety inspections of transport containers, adherence to strict handling and loading procedures, and compliance with traffic and transportation regulations. These measures aim to prevent accidents and ensure the safe delivery of nuclear materials.

Transport accidents involving nuclear materials are exceptionally rare due to the stringent safety measures in place. However, in the event of an accident, emergency response plans are activated to address the situation promptly. These plans involve co-ordinating with relevant authorities, implementing appropriate containment and mitigation measures.

Our trains have travelled over 13.5 million miles and ships over 5 million miles without a radiological release incident.

Nuclear material transport is subject to strict security measures to prevent unauthorised access, theft, or sabotage. Security escorts, tracking systems, and tamper-evident seals are employed to safeguard the materials throughout the transport process. Additionally, co-ordination with law enforcement agencies and intelligence services enhances security.

Radiation occurs naturally in the environment and radiation is present all around us.

The materials transported by rail and ships is highly shielded against radiation. The flasks used are constructed to, not only shield from radiation, but also to be incredibly strong in the unlikely event of an accident.

The types of material transported vary in their radioactivity but typically, from 2m away, the radiation given off by these transports would be equal to the naturally occurring background radiation.

If you have any further questions please contact us at Communications@ntsglobal.uk