ACR backs parts of NRC radioactive-materials rule

The American College of Radiology has filed comments supporting parts of a Nuclear Regulatory Commission proposal to revise security rules for category 1 and category 2 quantities of radioactive material.

ACR supported extending the required coordination interval with local law enforcement from every 12 months to every 3 years. The college said annual coordination is burdensome for healthcare providers and does not add public safety benefits in licensed healthcare facilities.

Weekly verification requirements also drew ACR support for removal or reduced frequency. ACR said frequent clinical use and existing onsite security make those checks “redundant” for licensed healthcare facilities.

NRC published the proposed rule April 9 in the Federal Register under docket NRC-2025-1238. Comments were due May 11.

Agency proposals include reducing refresher security training from every 12 months to at least every 3 years and when significant security-program changes occur. ACR opposed that change for healthcare settings and recommended keeping annual refresher training for security personnel because of staff turnover.

ACR also opposed removing maintenance and testing requirements for security systems. Instead, the college recommended narrowing the requirements and allowing facilities to follow manufacturer recommendations or a nationally recognized maintenance standard.

NRC said the proposed changes are intended to reduce unnecessary regulatory burden while maintaining safety and security for risk-significant radioactive materials. The agency said the affected licensees include medical facilities using stereotactic radiosurgery devices, blood irradiators, teletherapy units, and other category 1 or category 2 materials.