Strategies to improve the culture of safety in industrial radiography in Peru

The main lesson learned from the Yanango accident (1999) was the strengthening of the legal framework. However, in the last three years, there have been 02 serious accidents in industrial radiography: Chilca (January 16, 2012) and Ventanilla (February 14, 2014). Due to the severity of the injuries to the affected workers, one in each case, the IAEA's support was requested. Peru has initiated actions to promote safety in industrial radiography, working mainly with end users on the issue of risk perception and safety culture in a sustained manner. IPEN is the national authority in Peru to control and enforce the law and apply regulations. It also applies sanctions when regulations are not followed. The main causes were similar in both accidents. Neither the operators nor the radiation protection officers followed the proper radiation safety procedures, despite the fact that they had operating licenses issued by the regulatory body, that is, 'know but don't do'. To address this problem, an action plan with scope for end users was implemented. First, the records of companies and personnel working in the field of industrial radiography were updated, theoretical courses were given and practical training was given with the support of the IAEA, the hours of practice in protection courses were increased. radiological. A poster called 'zero accidents in industrial radiography' was given to each occupationally exposed worker, to be posted in a conspicuous place at their workplace. A photo of the workers and managers of the company next to the poster was the visible indicator that they had placed it correctly. In addition, brochures on radiation protection were widely distributed. The testimony of irradiated workers and their families has been the greatest impact they have received. Currently, a monitoring program has been established, aimed mainly at operators and radiation protection officers, obtaining good results. It also includes a commitment to the administration on the development of Culture within the facility or institution. This work shows the experience to implement the national action plan in the field of industrial radiography. The difficulties and the answers are shared as a model of strengthening the safety culture.