Saudi Arabia approves policies for nuclear authority

Saudi Arabia’s cabinet has approved policies for its atomic energy program, as well as rules for the Nuclear & Radiological Regulatory Authority.

The Riyadh-based Authority is a financially and administratively independent entity, but its organization that is linked to the prime minister.

The Authority aims to regulate activities, practices and facilities involving the peaceful uses of nuclear energy and ionizing radiation. It also reserves the right to outsource some of its tasks.

It will monitor and maintain regulations of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), in order to protect people and the environment against any actual or potential radiation exposure, including exposure to natural radiation.

The authority will implement the Kingdom's obligations under related treaties and agreements, and it shall assume the following roles:

1) Set up policies and regulations to ensure regulating activities, practices and facilities.

2) Set up security, safety and IAEA safeguards regulations, and verify their application.

3) Control the export, import and exchange of nuclear and nuclear-related materials, as well as radioactive materials.

4) Establish the necessary requirements for nuclear and radiological emergency preparedness.

5) Supervise and inspect related activities, practices and facilities.

6) Raise awareness on the dangers of ionizing radiation.

7) Cooperate with government agencies and similar bodies in other countries, and with international organizations.

8) Represent the Kingdom before the IAEA and related international organizations.

9) Any other task necessary to protect people and the environment from the dangers of ionizing radiation. ​