Various nuclear techniques have led to opportunities to enhance quality of life through services offered by ionizing radiation facilities (IRFs). National nuclear institutions, universities, medical centres, and private companies have established and used IRFs not only for research and development purposes but also for the provision of commercial services and goods. This publication provides guidance for organizations and institutions working on IRF projects to enable them to undertake them in a well-organized manner. It includes considerations for a feasibility study, provides detailed methodologies on how to assess the status of the necessary infrastructure, and aims to help Member States as well as their respective organizations to understand their commitments and obligations associated with an IRF project. It is intended to be used by managers, staff, decision makers at the national level and other stakeholders at institutions that are seeking or supporting the establishment of an IRF.

• 1. INTRODUCTION
  • 1.1. Background
  • 1.2. Relevance to the IAEA Milestones Approach
  • 1.3. Objectives
  • 1.4. Scope
  • 1.5. Structure
  • 1.6. Users — target audience
  • 1.7. Framework for safety and security
    • 1.7.1. Framework for safety and security
    • 1.7.2. Code of Conduct on the Safety and Security of Radioactive Sources
• 2. IRF PROJECT PHASES AND MILESTONES
  • 2.1. Synergies and differences with the Milestones Approach for research reactors
  • 2.2. Considerations for the graded approach
  • 2.3. Considerations for a tailored approach
  • 2.4. Project development of a new IRF
    • 2.4.1. Pre-project
    • 2.4.2. Project formulation
    • 2.4.3. Project implementation
  • 2.5. Risk management
• 3. CONSIDERATIONS FOR A FEASIBILITY STUDY
  • 3.1. Preliminary strategic plan
    • 3.1.1. Objectives
    • 3.1.2. Methodology for developing a preliminary strategic plan
    • 3.1.3. Contents of a preliminary strategic plan document
  • 3.2. Assessment of infrastructure
    • 3.2.1. Objectives
    • 3.2.2. Methodology for infrastructure assessment
    • 3.2.3. Evaluation steps
    • 3.2.4. Documenting the results and preparing an action plan
  • 3.3. Cost–benefit analysis and budgetary estimation
    • 3.3.1. Objectives
    • 3.3.2. Methodology
  • 3.4. Contents of the feasibility study report
• 4. CONCLUDING REMARKS
• REFERENCES
• Annex I BASIS FOR INFRASTRUCTURE ASSESSMENT
• Annex II IAEA RESOURCES
• ABBREVIATIONS
• CONTRIBUTORS TO DRAFTING AND REVIEW