The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission Radiation Sources Regulatory Partnership (RSRP) delivered a workshop on the regulatory oversight of medical linear accelerators (LINAC) to the Radiation Safety and Nuclear Security Authority (ARSN) in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire. The weeklong training from October 7-11, 2024, included formal in-class presentations, in-depth group discussions on regulatory best-practices for licensing and inspection of LINAC facilities, and visits to the cancer treatment facility at a local medical center.
The topics covered by the five-day workshop included: construction criteria and safety features; shielding calculation methods; quality assurance; machine maintenance; emergency procedures; treatment planning; and authorization and inspection procedures. The engagement of ARSN’s technical experts showed a commitment to developing a deep level of understanding and awareness of aspects of regulatory oversight that are essential to ensure that the health and safety of patients, workers and the public are adequately protected. Discussions during the workshop will enable the ARSN to finalize inspection procedures and share them with medical providers using advanced technologies for cancer treatment and diagnosis.