To improve the efficiency of safety interventions and allow for effective harmonization of regional interests in terms of occupational radiation safety, the first regional workshop on the "Transfer of Experience in the Area of Safety Culture Related to Occupational Radiation Protection of the Nuclear Industry" was held in Mexico City, 26 - 30 March 2012.
The main purpose of this workshop was to determine the present situation in Latin America pertaining to occupational radiation protection and to define strategies for building a high-level safety culture in industries dealing with radiation. The meeting discussed how to improve national radiation protection programmes of each participating country and, thus, how to facilitate the development of a strong safety culture in the region for practices involving exposure to ionizing radiation.
Altogether, 18 participants from 16 Latin American countries attended the workshop, as well as several IAEA staff members and experts who shared their international experience with the participants. In addition, guidelines and IAEA documents addressing nuclear safety issues were introduced.
During the workshop, a regional action plan was prepared based on the countries' situation analysis that recognized the different stages of socioeconomic development of the participating countries. Country-specific needs were also identified for further IAEA technical assistance. The proposed action plan outlined the planned activities, responsibilities, deadlines and expected results.