ABU DHABI, 21st October, 2013 (WAM) -- The Department of Finance - Abu Dhabi General Directorate of Customs recently concluded a General Radiation Safety training course with the participation of more than 200 inspectors and staff from different customs centres in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and the Western Region.
The training course was held in collaboration with the Georgia Tech Research Institute, and highlighted the General Directorate of Custom?s commitment to briefing its employees and training them on the latest research and scientific techniques that contribute to protecting them from risks they could face during their customs work. The Abu Dhabi General Directorate of Customs is the first customs directorate in the Middle East to train employees in radiation safety measures. Robert L. Rosson, Dwayne P. Blaylock and Donna-Marie Beals, accredited trainers in the field of radiation at the Georgia Tech Research Institute, led the course. In their lectures, they focused on how to measure radiation, its effects, and personal protection methods, in addition to explaining radiation safety standards, laws and procedures adopted by the Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation in the U.A.E.. The trainers also discussed X-ray emissions and methods used to protect employees from the possible dangers of radiation equipment and X-rays, which are widely used in the U.A.E.. Saeed Ahmed Al Muhairi, Director-General of the Abu Dhabi Customs said, "The main goal behind this training course is to enhance employee awareness about the risks of being exposed to radioactive emissions, and to increase their own personal safety. Additionally, the course provided an opportunity to introduce them to the laws and safety measures adopted by the U.A.E. when it comes to radiologic activities, as well as the safety measures required when dealing with radiation generating devices. This training course falls in line with the recommendations of the International Atomic Energy Agency with regards to radiation protection and its proper use, and highlights our belief that ensuring the safety of employees is an important part of achieving a safe homeland and a prosperous economy."Al Muhairi added, "The collaboration between the Abu Dhabi General Directorate of Customs and the Georgia Tech Research Institute is based on the institute?s outstanding performance track record in specialised training and research. The institute has a diverse global experience in various fields and industries, including clean and sustainable energy researches, disease diagnosis and treatment, in addition to its activities in the areas of national security and defence training."Copyright Emirates News Agency (WAM) 2013.
