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Controls on Radioactive Sources

This page outlines:

• What is controlled and why
• Original order and explanatory memorandum
• Updates
• How licences for radioactive sources are assessed
• What licences are available
• Guidance on implementation
• Legal Advice
• Enquiries

What is controlled and why

This order controls the exports of certain high-activity radioactive sources as defined under the:

The order was introduced as part of the ECO's international commitment to minimise the risk of radioactive sources falling into the hands of terrorists or criminal groups who may seek sources for terrorist funds. Other countries have introduced similar controls on the import and export of such high-activity radioactive sources.

The export of specific radioactive sources are controlled depending on their radioactivity level. The Order defines items in terms of two levels - Category 1 and Category 2. Exporters need to identify whether their radioactive goods are above the minimum levels specified and whether they fall into either category.

Further details are provided in the Scope of the Radioactive Sources Order

The list of controlled radioactive sources is also provided in the UK National Radioactive Sources List which forms part of the UK Strategic Export Control List: The Consolidated List.

Original order and explanatory memorandum

The text of both the original order and the explanatory memorandum (external links to OPSI website) are provided below:

• Radioactive Sources: Control Order, SI 2006/1846, July 2006 
• Radioactive Sources: Control Order, SI 2006/1846, Explanatory Memorandum 

The order came into force on 1st October 2006.

You can view a summary of the legislation in force under Current UK Strategic Export Control Legislation.

Updates

There are no current relevant Notices to Exporters providing details of legislative and other changes.

To keep up to date with legislation changes, you can view the ECO's Notices to Exporters. You can keep informed of export control issues by receiving Notices by email. To do so, simply: Join the ECO Mailing List.

How licenses for radioactive sources are assessed

Details of the criteria for deciding whether to grant a licence are outlined in The Assessment Criteria - Radioactive Sources

What licences are available

As with other categories of controlled goods, exporters need to apply for a licence. The type of licence required depends on the destination and the nature of the export.

Exporters can apply for either a Standard Individual Export Licence (SIEL), an Open Individual Export Licence (OIEL) or register for an Open General Export Licence (OGL). See more about Licences.

All licence applications are made via SPIRE.

Open General Export Licence

An OGL is available for Radioactive Sources. This allows the export of specified items (Category 1 radioactive sources) by any exporter to specified destinations. It removes the need to apply for an individual licence. If the export is in Category 2 or is to a destination NOT covered by the OGL then a SIEL or OIEL will be required.  

Exporters need to register to use the OGL via the SPIRE licensing system. Exporters will also need to meet the all the defined terms and conditions set out on the OGL which is a legal document. Holders of OGLs are subject to regular Compliance visits.

Access the OGEL (Radioactive Sources)

Further information on licensing

If you need further help in deciding if your goods need an export licence, you can either

• use the ECO's Goods Checker website to search the Control Lists.
• make a rating request via SPIRE. More information is available on the Rating Enquiry Service.

Guidance on implementation

The ECO has produced a guide which collates information on the radioactive sources controls. The guide includes a list of frequently asked questions and accessible details of the licensing process, licensing types and details of the end-user undertaking.

This information is available in the following document.

Guidance to industry on the implementation of the Export of Radioactive Sources (Control) Order 2006 (176KB)

Legal Advice

You are advised to obtain your own legal advice where necessary and to ensure that you are referring to the latest version of the legislation.

Enquiries

Export Control Organisation

Updated: July 2008

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