Lifecycle Management of Nuclear Security Radiation Detection Systems: Testing and Evaluation

The lifecycle of radiation detection systems functioning within a State’s Nuclear Security Detection Architecture encompasses all activities associated with acquisition, deployment, and eventual disposal. Throughout a system’s lifecycle, testing and evaluation activities are needed to ensure requirements are continually met, as underscored by recent experiences.
This paper provides:
1. A discussion of reasons why testing should be part of the radiation detection equipment lifecycle before, during, and after acquisition.
2. A general process for determining applicable evaluation methods.
3. A discussion of issues related to integrating testing and evaluation into procurement and operational processes and mitigation strategies.