International Nuclear Security Advisory Service (INSServ)
The International Nuclear Security Advisory Service (INSServ) serves as a flexible instrument to help a State to review the general status of measures that protect against nuclear terrorism and identify ways to improve a broad spectrum of nuclear security activities. The recommendations provide a platform for preparation of a country-specific Integrated Nuclear Security Support Plan (INSSP) for future implementation, through IAEA programme and bilateral assistance.
During an INSServ mission experts cover the following main topics: the legislative and regulatory system related to the nuclear security; physical protection of nuclear and radioactive material; detection of and response to illicit trafficking in nuclear and radioactive material and human resources development in nuclear security.
INSServ teams utilize a number of IAEA guidance documents that are useful for States to develop plans and programmes that are effective, efficient and consistent with internationally recognized guidance and practices. These documents recognize that implementation of recommended actions will vary from country to country, depending on numerous factors, which include: the country’s constitutional, legal and administrative systems; the potential threat for the malicious acts involving radioactive material; the technical skills and the professional and financial resources available to both users and regulators of nuclear and radioactive materials and techniques; and social customs and cultural traditions.
The 29 INSServ missions conducted to 30 June 2008 have yielded considerable dividends. In some cases research reactors, large irradiators or waste storage facilities were determined to have inadequate physical protection, and actions were proposed to improve this situation. Equipment has also been installed as a result of these missions, as well as other actions to improve Nuclear Security.
INSServ is not restricted to any particular group of Member States. INSServ missions are available to any country having nuclear and/or radioactive materials and associated facilities. Assistance is provided upon request from the Member State.
For further information please contact NuclearSecurity@iaea.org
