Developing a managerial framework for handling radioactive material in South Africa’s scrap metal industry

Abstract

The study is conducted to develop the managerial framework for handling radioactive material that can be adopted across the South African scrap metal industry to minimise risks and ensure proper handling and disposal of radioactive materials. Exposure to high levels of radiation poses serious health risks; workers processing scrap material may be at greater risk if they handle radioactive materials, especially if materials are not properly managed. The risk is higher for scrap processors who may not have the necessary knowledge or resources to identify and handle radioactive materials, leading to potential mishandling and increased health risks. This gap in knowledge and lack of resources increases the likelihood of radioactive materials being mishandled. Therefore, a managerial framework for handling radioactive material that can be adopted across the scrap metal industry needs to be developed. The study employed a qualitative research approach, chosen for its ability to provide the in-depth insights needed from managers and radiation protection officers and specialists of the scrap recyclers and processors to effectively address the research questions. Semi-structured interview questions were distributed to participants in advance, allowing them ample time to prepare for the interviews, which were conducted via Teams platform. The data collected was analysed using ATLAS.ti software to identify common codes, categories and themes across the dataset. The study provided an in-depth analysis of the intersection between metal scrap recycling and radioactive material management, focusing on the South African context. It outlined the economic and environmental benefits of metal recycling and the growing global demand driven by sustainability and decarbonisation efforts. The study also explored the sources and risks of radioactive contamination in scrap, drawing on international case studies and IAEA guidelines. South Africa's regulatory frameworks, including the National Nuclear Regulator Act 47 of 1999, and Hazardous Substances Act 53 of 1973, were assessed alongside key guidance documents and authorisation conditions. The analysis revealed critical gaps in regulatory oversight, outdated standards, and limited industry awareness, especially among scrap dealers not authorised by the NNR, reinforcing the need for a more robust and inclusive approach to radiation protection in the scrap metal industry. Interviews were conducted and participants provided detailed insights into the managerial and regulatory dynamics shaping the handling of radioactive material in the scrap metal industry, revealing key themes around governance, compliance behaviour, and stakeholder collaboration. Through rigorous thematic analysis, transcripts were coded and systematically examined to identify patterns in regulatory awareness, authorisation challenges, communication practices, and iv operational risk management. The analysis illuminated how managerial decision-making, regulatory interpretation, and stakeholder engagement collectively influence safety and compliance outcomes within this scrap metal industry. The research adhered strictly to ethical principles, safeguarding participant confidentiality through informed consent, anonymisation, and secure data handling in line with institutional research ethics protocols. The study provides a comprehensive exploration of the realities underpinning the regulation and safe handling of radioactive material within South Africa's scrap metal industry. This analytical foundation establishes the groundwork for the development of the proposed Managerial Framework, offering actionable insights and recommendations to streamline authorisation processes, enhance stakeholder communication, and strengthen regulatory coherence for sustainable compliance. The study synthesised the empirical findings and translated them into strategic recommendations for improving the management of radioactive materials within South Africa's scrap metal industry. It highlighted the need for regulatory simplification, stronger communication, and a more inclusive, participatory approach to compliance. By addressing the identified challenges, the proposed managerial framework seeks to establish a culture of safety and cooperation grounded in transparency, accountability, and shared value.