Kyrgyzstan to tighten rules on radioactive waste handling

Kyrgyzstan is moving to strengthen its oversight of radioactive waste management with the introduction of new sanitary rules and standards. The Cabinet of Ministers has put forward a draft resolution aimed at updating the nation's approach to handling hazardous materials.

The proposed regulations are designed to replace outdated sanitary norms that have been in effect since 2001. A key justification for the update is the current absence of a comprehensive regulatory act that covers all stages of radioactive waste management, from collection and transportation to storage and disposal. This legislative gap poses significant risks to the public, personnel working with radioactive materials, and the environment.

Ionizing radiation sources are vital in various sectors, including medical diagnostics and treatment, as well as industrial applications like non-destructive testing and technological processes. The new rules aim to establish unified, mandatory safety requirements, define clear procedures for handling radioactive waste, and enhance state control over the sector. The ultimate goal is to reduce the likelihood of radioactive contamination and safeguard human health and ecological well-being.

The project was developed collaboratively by the Ministry of Natural Resources, the Ministry of Health, and the Ministry of Emergency Situations. It incorporates standards and recommendations from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Upon adoption, the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Emergency Situations, Ministry of Natural Resources, Ecology and Technical Supervision, and the Ministry of Internal Affairs will be responsible for implementing the new regulations.