Which regulatory authority is required for institutions to work with radioactive sources?

The requirement for institutions to work with radioactive sources is primarily governed by state or national regulatory bodies. These authorities establish and enforce regulations concerning the use, storage, and disposal of radioactive materials to ensure safety for both workers and the public.

Such regulatory frameworks typically include licensing procedures, monitoring practices, and compliance guidelines that institutions must follow to operate legally and safely with radioactive materials. In many countries, the responsibility for overseeing radioactivity falls under specific agencies designated by the government, like the Nuclear Regulatory Commission in the United States or equivalent bodies in other nations.

While local governments may have some influence, and the International Atomic Energy Agency focuses on global standards and cooperation, the foundational regulatory authority that directly oversees the practice regarding radioactive sources lies with these state or national bodies. The Environmental Protection Agency primarily deals with environmental protection issues and may have some related oversight, but it does not primarily regulate radioactive sources.