Procedures for Testing and Authorization of Seals for IAEA Safeguards Applications

Containment and Surveillance systems are used as complementary measures to nuclear material accountancy. Surveillance and sealing systems provide continuity of knowledge on the verified items and assurance that nuclear materials follow predetermined routes, integrity of the containment remains unimpaired and the material is accounted for at the correct measurement points. The status of the development and implementation of the various types of seals is presented and the criteria and the authorization process for seals to be approved for routine use by IAEA safeguards inspectors is described. Also described, are the efforts underway to sustain the availability of the different types of seals for IAEA safeguards applications.