Ouagadougou: "Our mission is to protect citizens from radiological risks," stated the national director of the ARSN, Professor Martial Zoungrana, during an interview with AIB. In this discussion, he elaborated on the missions, achievements, and challenges faced by the Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Authority in Burkina Faso, an organization tasked with shielding the population, workers, and the environment from the hazards associated with ionizing and non-ionizing radiation.
According to Burkina Information Agency, Professor Zoungrana emphasized the diverse sources of radiation, which extend across various sectors such as healthcare, mining, public works, agriculture, livestock, scientific research, and energy. He highlighted the necessity of controlling these technologies, despite their benefits, as they can pose significant dangers.
Ionizing radiation, Professor Zoungrana explained, has the ability to destroy human cells and potentially cause diseases like cancer or genetic disorders. This type of radiation is commonly found in hospital equipment, mining industries, and certain laboratories. On the other hand, non-ionizing radiation, which includes emissions from telephone, radio, and television antennas, carries less risk since it lacks the energy to damage living tissue.
The ARSN's role, Professor Zoungrana added, involves regulating and monitoring the use of all radiation to ensure it is safe and does not endanger the population or environment. The Authority's key responsibilities include regulation and control, inspection of facilities using radiation, securing radioactive materials, environmental radiological monitoring, control of imported products, and operator training.
Professor Zoungrana warned about the risks of accidental or deliberate irradiation and stressed the importance of securing radioactive sources and ensuring compliance with international standards. He mentioned that some ARSN interventions are fee-based, citing the example of measuring electromagnetic waves in homes as a paid service.
He further emphasized the legal consequences of unauthorized use of radiological equipment, which can result in severe penalties, including fines and imprisonment. In cases of lost or stolen radioactive sources, he urged prompt reporting to authorities to protect the public.
The ARSN actively engages in public awareness initiatives, including open days and media campaigns. The next open days are slated for December 2025. Internationally, the ARSN collaborates with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to align with nuclear safety standards and enhance staff training.
Professor Zoungrana concluded by reaffirming the ARSN's commitment to maintaining safety and security to protect citizens and the environment from radiological threats.