Speakers
Description
Radiological protection is a fundamental component of safety in the use of ionizing radiation, ensuring the protection of human health and the environment. The continuous expansion of radiation applications in medicine, industry, agriculture, and energy demands robust regulatory systems aligned with international recommendations, particularly those issued by the International Commission on Radiological Protection and the International Atomic Energy Agency. Among Portuguese-speaking countries, Brazil and Portugal have established consolidated regulatory frameworks, whereas Angola is strengthening its legal and institutional infrastructure.
This study aimed to comparatively analyze the radiological protection systems of Brazil and Portugal, identifying convergences and divergences in light of international standards to provide technical support for improving Angola’s regulatory framework. A qualitative, descriptive-comparative approach was adopted, based on documentary analysis of the main regulations currently in force: ANSN Standard NN 3.01/2024 (Brazil), Decree-Law No. 108/2018 (Portugal), and Presidential Decree No. 12/12 (Angola). The technical references included ICRP Publication 103 and the IAEA Safety Standards. The analysis focused on fundamental protection principles, dose limits, occupational and medical exposure control, individual monitoring systems, and emergency preparedness and response mechanisms.
The results revealed a high level of alignment between Brazil and Portugal in incorporating the three fundamental principles of radiological protection—justification, optimization (ALARA), and dose limitation. Both countries adopt an occupational dose limit of 20 mSv per year averaged over five consecutive years (100 mSv total), with a maximum of 50 mSv in any single year, and a public dose limit of 1 mSv per year, consistent with international recommendations. Convergence was also observed in licensing requirements, risk assessment procedures, mandatory radiation protection programs, individual dosimetry for exposed workers, and emergency planning. Differences were mainly related to institutional structures and regulatory updating mechanisms. Overall, both systems demonstrate substantial compliance with international standards, offering relevant guidance for strengthening Angola’s radiological protection infrastructure.