Abstract:

This article presents the results and reflections from Poland's inaugural self-assessment of nuclear security culture. The article emphasizes the pivotal function of leadership in shaping and sustaining that culture. Conducted by a team of Poznań University of Technology and staff from a private oncology medical facility that uses radioactive sources, with support from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the project integrates a theoretical framework with practical implementation. The article employs a leadership framework to evaluate the IAEA's nuclear security culture model. It meticulously identifies the way leaders influence beliefs, values, systems, and behavior in environments where security is prioritized. The text makes it clear that leadership plays a pivotal role in initiating and sustaining self-assessment processes, motivating employees, institutionalizing policies, and raising awareness. The article's conclusion confidently presents actionable recommendations based on Poland's proven approach of integrating leadership-focused strategies into a continuous improvement process for nuclear security culture in medical institutions.