Pakistan Nuclear Regulatory Authority (PNRA) hosted a “National Workshop to Identify the Production of Naturally Occurring Radioactive Material (NORM) Waste, its Management and Regulatory Control on NORM Waste” in collaboration with International Atomic Energy Commission (IAEA) from 26-30 August, 2024 at PNRA HQs Islamabad. The workshop was intended to enhance understanding of the producers and regulators on applicable standards, practices and regulatory requirements to ensure safety during management of NORM waste.

IAEA experts Mr. Zhiwen Fan, Mr. Yii Mei Wo and Mr. Mohammad Saeid Almasri participated as resource persons during the workshop.

Mr. Naveed Maqbul, S.I, Member (Corporate), PNRA inaugurated the workshop. During his inaugural address he emphasized on the importance of NORM waste generated from activities such as mining, oil & gas extraction and to ensure practices to protect public, workers and the environment. He further highlighted that, with improved understanding and robust regulatory framework we can develop targeted strategies to manage NORM waste responsibly.

The workshop was attended by the participants having a diverse range of experience from operators, regulators, industries and oil & gas companies’ representatives. The workshop remained very beneficial for developing understanding of the participants on the subject matter through oral presentations and interactive sessions.