License to Possess, Sell and Use Radioactive Sources

Overview

Pursuant to the Radiation Protection Act, 2006 and Radiation Protection Regulation 2008, any person who wishes to engage in activities which involve ionizing radiation sources must obtain a licence to do so. This is needed to ensure safe use of atomic energy and nuclear technology to ensure that the operators/users, public and the environment are protected from the adverse effects of ionizing radiation.

Who is eligible?

Those who engage in or intend to engage in any of the following activities require a licence:

Acquire, own, possess, transfer, distribute, sell, use, manufacture, transport, import, or export any radioactive material , radioactive substance, or source.
Administer any radioactive substance to any person for the purposes of diagnosis, treatment or research.
Add radioactive substances in the production and manufacture of foodstuffs, medicinal products, cosmetics and products for household use.
Physically or chemically alter or modify part or all of any radioactive material, substance or source; or
Manage or dispose of any radioactive waste.

How do I get this service?

In order to access this service, applicants must follow the following steps:

Download and submit the following forms:

Applicants should submit the two forms and applicable license fees along with all supporting documentation to the office of the Radiation Protection Inspectorate located at:

Unit B, Plot 132, Gaborone International Finance Park
Inspectorate staff will assess the application and provide feedback to the applicant within ten (10) days.
Applications that have passed the assessment will be published in the Government Gazette and submitted for the next scheduled meeting of the Radiation Protection Board for final evaluation. Please note that applications must have passed the assessment stage at least three (3) weeks before the Board meeting date in order to be submitted for that meeting.
Applicants will be informed of the decision of the board within three (3) days of the board meeting.

How long will this service take?

It will take between three (3) and twelve (12) weeks depending on the board’s scheduled meeting.
Please note that the Radiation Protection Board meets every three (3) months for new applications.
The License Renewal Committee meets every three (3) weeks for renewal of existing licenses.
Licenses will be ready for collection within a week from the date of the Board meeting.