In preparing for the key projects of Ninh Thuan I and II Nuclear Power Plants and the Center for Nuclear Science and Technology, the requirements for nuclear safety and qualified human resources have become pressing priorities in Vietnam. To meet these needs, the Dalat Nuclear Research Institute (DNRI) under the Vietnam Atomic Energy Institute (VAEI) in cooperation with the Japan Atomic Energy Agency (JAEA) organized a training course on "Nuclear and Radiological Emergency Response".
This annual program contributes to the development of a core team with in-depth knowledge and practical skills in responding to nuclear and radiological emergency, thereby enhancing national capacity for radiation protection and nuclear safety.
Convergence of management, engineering and health care sectors
The course gathered not only technical staff but also managers and experts from wide range of organizations including the Provincial Departments of Science & Technology in Dong Nai, Khanh Hoa, Dong Thap, Quang Ngai, Lam Dong, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang City, Khanh Hoa Departments of Industry and Trade, Health, Construction; PTSC Mechanical & Construction, PTSC Quang Ngai Company, PetroVietnam Technical Services Corporation, Vietnam Petroleum Institute, PetroVietnam University, Halliburton International GmbH, France Vietnam Hospital, Xuyen A General Hospital, Ly Son Military-Civilian Medical Center, Phu My Fertilizer Plant, Toan Phat Irradiation Company, and Can Tho Irradiation Company.
Speaking at the opening session, Mr. Ohkura Takehisa from the JAEA emphasized: “radiation protection and nuclear safety depend not only on technical expertise but also on the quality of human resources. International training cooperation plays a vital role in strengthening emergency response capacity”.
From theory to practice: a comprehensive training program
The participants were equipped with fundamental knowledge of radiation, biological effects, legal frameworks, and took part in the scenario drill "Search for and Recovery of lost radioactive sources". The drill familiarized participants with essential emergency response procedures such as: using personal protective equipment and radiation meters, cordoning off areas, decontamination, environmental sampling as well as responding to nuclear and radiological emergency.
Fundamental Core Values
1. On-site Response Capacity: Fostering and improving the initial response capacity of frontline forces at the facility and local levels to minimize risks in the early stages of an emergency before mobilizing higher-level response forces.
2. Inter-sectoral coordination: Improving the understanding and unified management capabilities among technical, medical, environmental, police, military and local government forces to ensure smooth and effective coordination when an emergency exceeds the facility’s response capacity.
3. Capacity improvement and knowledge sharing: Knowledge and experience from the course will be spread in the participants’ workplaces, contributing to improving the capacity of nuclear and radiological emergency response nationwide, while supporting the safe and effective implementation of nuclear energy application programs for peaceful purposes in Vietnam now and in the future.
Improving the practical training capacity of DNRI
The success of the training course continues to demonstrate the effectiveness of VAEI - JAEA cooperation in training and developing nuclear energy human resources. Simultaneously, the role of the DNRI is widely recognized in the practical training and support of capacity building for relevant organizations. This can be seen as the result of the DNRI’s continuous learning process, improvement and close cooperation with domestic and foreign partners.
With a team of experienced and dedicated lecturers; along with a well-equipped technical infrastructure including a research reactor, radiation sources, and specialized laboratories, DNRI continues to refine its training methods and curriculum. The Institute actively promotes knowledge transfer, strengthens linkages, and provides hands-on training for organizations engaged in nuclear research and applications in Vietnam.
To meet future demands, DNRI looks forward to continued support from ministries, local authorities, and international partners in modernizing its facilities, updating training programs in line with international standards, and expanding its training scope, thereby contributing to the development of a competent and responsible workforce for the peaceful use of nuclear energy in Vietnam.
Selected photos from the training course
Mr. Nguyen Kien Cuong (left), Deputy Director of DNRI and Mr. Ohkura Takehisa (right), the Japanese course coordinator deliver opening remarks
Lecturers and participants exchange experiences and develop a scenario
Participants practice in a laboratory
Participants conduct an emergency response drill
Participants and lecturers take souvenir photos
Translated by Le Van Ngoc
Source: DNRI
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