Proposed regulatory changes to create a new category for some medical radioactive shipments

During recent times it has become apparent that the freight transport industry is in the process of major change, in particular 'dangerous goods' have been the subject of intense scrutiny. This has prompted a number of carriers to review their 'dangerous goods' policy; in some cases the decision has been made not to carry any dangerous goods, while other carriers have chosen not to accept radioactive shipments. This situation is a major cause of concern to ARI (ANSTO Radiopharmaceuticals and Industrials) because of the effect it has had on some 'urgent' shipments of medical isotopes. Such shipments need to be carried on the first available direct service, but to achieve this carriers will need to be better informed and provided with the option of carrying only 'medical radioactive' shipments. There is a need for the minimal hazard of some medical radioactive shipments to be put into perspective and recognised by regulators of the transport industry. (author)