The purpose of this paper is to create a better understanding of cobalt-60 radioactive sources and industrial gamma irradiators. The iia does not support an approach that treats all radioactive sources the same, nor ignores almost 50 years of experience and benefits of radiation processing. To obtain the best regulations and standards we advocate a collaborative approach that includes industry participation as related to the different radioactive source types and use. We believe these regulations need to be logical, balanced, harmonized and implemented in a manner that truly acts in the best interest of a global society. The International Irradiation Association (iia) shall always support regulatory initiatives that protect any vulnerable radioactive source from malicious use.
