Conceptualizing the Safety and Security Interface in the Transport of Radioactive Materials in West Africa

The transport of radioactive materials is governed by two complementary objectives: safety, which protects people and the environment from accidental radiation exposure, and security, which prevents theft, sabotage, or unauthorized diversion of radioactive sources. Historically, transport systems have emphasized safety, focusing on accident prevention, radiation dose limitation, and packaging integrity. However, evolving global security threats and incidents of illicit trafficking have highlighted the need to integrate robust security measures into traditional safety frameworks. This paper examines the safety–security interface in the transport of radioactive materials within the West African context. Using a qualitative analytical approach, the study reviews key international instruments, including the IAEA Regulations for the Safe Transport of Radioactive Material (SSR-6) and the Nuclear Security Series guidance on Security of Radioactive Material in Transport (NSS No. 9-G), to identify areas of convergence and divergence between safety and security requirements. Field observations and consultations with frontline officers at selected border points were used to assess practical implementation challenges. Findings reveal that safety and security overlap in transport planning, personnel training, inspection, and emergency preparedness, but diverge in information management, where safety promotes transparency while security requires confidentiality. The regional case study highlights vulnerabilities such as under-declaration of consignments, limited radiation detection capabilities, and weak inter-agency coordination. These gaps increase the risk of radioactive materials moving without effective regulatory oversight. The study concludes that harmonized regulatory frameworks, strengthened detection infrastructure, coordinated institutional responsibilities, and sustained capacity building are essential to integrating safety and security and preventing materials from falling out of regulatory control.