Ageing Management and Maintenance of Packages for the Transport of Radioactive Material

Practical recommendations help manage the ageing and maintenance of radioactive transport packages throughout their lifecycle. A tailored approach addresses diverse package types, ensuring integrity and regulatory compliance while safeguarding workers, the public, and sustainable operations.

Each package used for the transport of radioactive material must demonstrate compliance with the IAEA Regulations for the Safe Transport of Radioactive Material, IAEA Safety Standards Series No. SSR-6, particularly for international shipments. This new safety guide provides recommendations to support compliance with the requirement related to the ageing of transport packages, specifically addressing ageing management and maintenance. The guide applies to all package types containing radioactive material–including excepted packages, Type IP-1, IP-2, and IP-3, Type A, Type B(U), Type B(M), and Type C packages, as well as those containing fissile material or uranium hexafluoride (UF6). It covers all activities throughout the service life of transport packages where ageing management and maintenance should be considered. A graded approach is used, tailored to the type of package and its intended use e.g. single transport, repeated use, or shipment after storage. Effective ageing management helps prevent degradation that could compromise package integrity, while regular maintenance ensures ongoing compliance with safety standards. These practices not only reduce the risk of incidents during transport but also support the long-term sustainability of transport activities, protect workers and the public, and reinforce confidence in regulatory compliance and operational excellence. This safety guide offers practical recommendations to support consistent and effective implementation, helping stakeholders strengthen the safety and reliability of transport operations involving radioactive material throughout the service life of packages.