Upgrading of Nuclear Security Measures in Cargo Area Installations in Seaport of Piraeus

Since the hosting of the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens, and following recent major security concerns internationally, there was a clear need for a nuclear security program in Greece to prevent, detect and respond to threats of nuclear terrorism. As a result, cooperation between the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the US Department of Energy and Greek authorities started for the implementation of a comprehensive program adopting a multi-area coverage approach to nuclear security. In particular, nuclear security measures at six border cross-checking points were implemented during the preparation phase just before the Olympic Games, including installation of several Radiation Portal Monitors (RPM). Specifically, the Cargo Area of the seaport of Piraeus (5th Customs Office) was equipped with five RPMs, covering all inbound, outbound and transit cargoes. According to arrangements of the Piraeus Port Authority, the entrance of the cargo area of the seaport of Piraeus had to be separated in order to serve also the Piraeus Containers Terminal Company. For that reason, all five RPMs installed at this location were removed and placed again to new positions. Another four RPMs were additionally installed in order to cover the whole reconstructed entrance of the seaport, both inbound and outbound. (author)