Establishing and Operating a National Nuclear Security Support Centre (Arabic Edition)

This publication provides practical guidance for States to establish and operate a national nuclear security support center (NSSC) to strengthen nuclear security sustainability. It is based on good practices and experiences from the NSSC Network and is intended as a primary reference for the IAEA and the Network.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 70 pages
Publication date: 30 May 2022
Publisher: IAEA

This comprehensive publication offers a systematic approach to establishing and operationalizing a national nuclear security support center (NSSC) as a vital tool for enhancing the sustainability of nuclear security within a State. It provides detailed practical guidance to States, outlining a streamlined decision-making and project management process derived from best practices observed in the establishment and operation of NSSCs within the NSSC Network. The publication, a revised version of TECDOC-1734, serves as the primary reference for activities aimed at assisting States in establishing and sustaining an NSSC.

The establishment of an NSSC is crucial in ensuring the long-term viability of nuclear security. By consolidating expertise and resources, an NSSC can provide a centralized platform for coordinating and facilitating nuclear security-related activities. This includes the development and implementation of policies, regulations, and standards; the provision of training and technical assistance; the conduct of security assessments and inspections; and the response to incidents and emergencies.

One of the key advantages of an NSSC is its ability to promote a culture of continuous improvement within the nuclear security sector. By fostering a collaborative environment and encouraging knowledge sharing and learning, an NSSC can help States identify areas for improvement and develop strategies to address them. This proactive approach not only enhances the overall security posture of a State but also contributes to the broader global effort to prevent the proliferation of nuclear weapons and other radioactive materials.

To establish and operate an NSSC effectively, it is essential to follow a structured and phased approach. This involves conducting a thorough needs assessment to identify the specific requirements and challenges faced by the State in terms of nuclear security. Based on the findings of the needs assessment, a comprehensive plan can be developed that outlines the goals, objectives, and activities of the NSSC.

Once the plan is in place, the NSSC can be established through a formal establishment process. This may involve the establishment of a legal entity, the recruitment of staff, and the acquisition of necessary equipment and infrastructure. The NSSC will then need to be staffed with qualified professionals who possess the necessary expertise and experience to carry out its functions effectively.

Operationalization of the NSSC is a continuous process that requires ongoing monitoring, evaluation, and improvement. This involves developing and implementing policies, procedures, and standards; providing training and technical assistance; conducting security assessments and inspections; and responding to incidents and emergencies. Regular feedback and evaluation mechanisms can be established to ensure that the NSSC is meeting its goals and objectives and to identify areas for improvement.

In conclusion, the establishment and operation of an NSSC is a critical component of enhancing the sustainability of nuclear security within a State. By providing a centralized platform for coordinating and facilitating nuclear security-related activities, an NSSC can promote a culture of continuous improvement and contribute to the broader global effort to prevent the proliferation of nuclear weapons and other radioactive materials. The practical guidance provided in this publication is intended to assist States in establishing and operationalizing an NSSC that is effective, efficient, and sustainable.

Weight: 250g
Dimension: 297 x 210 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789206388211