With a strong framework, deep technical experience and forward-thinking imaginative and prescient, Jamaica has established itself because the regional chief in radiation security and safety.
The nation is main the best way for Caribbean nations and incomes worldwide approval for its efforts within the peaceable software and regulation of ionising radiation.
Central to this progress is the Hazardous Substances Regulatory Authority (HSRA), an company below the Ministry of Business, Funding and Commerce that’s accountable for implementing the Nuclear Security and Radiation Safety Act (2015) and its supporting laws.
Since its institution, the HSRA has not solely reworked Jamaica’s home radiation security infrastructure however is now taking part in a pivotal position in serving to to construct regulatory capability throughout the area.
“We’re proud to say that Jamaica has essentially the most superior impartial regulatory physique for radiation security within the Caribbean. We now have set the tempo for different nations that are actually following our lead, and we’ve been instrumental in serving to them get began,” stated Director Normal, Dr. Cliff Riley, throughout a latest Jamaica Info Service (JIS) ‘Suppose Tank’.
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In December 2024, St. Lucia achieved a big milestone by launching its impartial regulatory physique for radiation security, with substantial help from HSRA’s crew of inspectors and trainers.
“The Jamaican authorities offered hands-on help, coaching St. Lucia’s new regulators in inspection protocols, authorisation processes and worldwide security requirements,” Dr. Riley knowledgeable.
He added that this is only one of many collaborations establishing Jamaica because the cornerstone of radiation regulation and technical help within the Caribbean.
In response to the Director Normal, the HSRA’s management will not be solely grounded in expertise but additionally in cultural relevance.
“The regulatory fashions from developed nations don’t all the time translate effectively in Caribbean contexts, therefore our cultural norms and dynamics should be factored into how security protocols are communicated and utilized. That’s why it’s vital that regional experience, like what we’ve developed right here on the HSRA, is leveraged to construct sustainable methods,” he added.
With oversight spanning important sectors corresponding to healthcare, manufacturing, development, mining, nationwide safety and border management, the HSRA ensures that any facility utilizing radiation-emitting gadgets, whether or not a CT scanner, dental X-ray or industrial supply, is compliant with rigorous security and safety protocols.
“Whereas particular person sectors might have extremely educated professionals working these applied sciences, you continue to want a impartial, knowledgeable regulatory physique to make sure public security,” Dr. Riley defined.
Consequently, he added, “our (HSRA) duty is to ensure all methods in use throughout the nation are protected for operators, sufferers, most of the people and future generations”.
Dr. Riley additional emphasised that ionising radiation poses invisible dangers, noting that, not like different hazards, “it can’t be seen, tasted, felt or heard”.
“The results might not manifest instantly, however can result in long-term well being points, corresponding to most cancers or genetic mutations, underscoring the necessity for strict regulatory oversight,” he maintained.
Dr. Riley identified that the Authority’s work “is concerning the safety of individuals, the surroundings and of future generations”.
“That’s why we construct deep technical capability inside our crew and guarantee Jamaica will not be solely compliant with worldwide requirements however contributing to shaping how these requirements are utilized regionally,” he acknowledged.
Inside just some years, the HSRA has achieved vital milestones, with greater than 50 per cent of Jamaican amenities utilising ionising radiation now licensed and sectors corresponding to public well being, medical diagnostics, and industrial functions demonstrating robust compliance.
As Jamaica strives to realize not less than 87 per cent authorisation by 2027, the Authority stays steadfast in guaranteeing that every one amenities function throughout the boundaries of the regulation.
“Jamaica’s management on this subject is not only about coverage; it’s about individuals. So, the HSRA is right here to assist to make sure that radiation applied sciences, which play a important position in diagnosing illness, advancing infrastructure, and strengthening nationwide safety, are used safely and responsibly,” Dr. Riley knowledgeable.
He added that, “with Jamaica sharing its experience throughout borders, lifting requirements, constructing regional confidence, and serving to to make sure that all Caribbean individuals profit from the protected, safe, and peaceable use of radiation, there may be hope for a vibrant future”.
