Resources » Radioactive Sources: Opportunities Exist for Federal Agencies to Strengthen Transportation Security

Radioactive Sources: Opportunities Exist for Federal Agencies to Strengthen Transportation Security

April 2017

Source: U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO)

Concerns have been raised that risk-significant sources could be stolen by terrorists and used to create a “dirty bomb.” NRC is responsible for licensing the possession and use of these sources. DOT regulates the transport of such sources, and DHS is responsible for securing all modes of transportation.

GAO was asked to review the security of these sources during ground transport. This report examines (1) the steps that NRC, DOT, and DHS have taken since September 11, 2001, to strengthen the security of these sources; and (2) the challenges that exist to further strengthening the security of these sources during ground transport and opportunities to address them.