Which organization is responsible for setting radiation protection standards?

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is recognized as a key organization that sets radiation protection standards on an international level. Its mission includes promoting the safe and secure use of nuclear technology and establishing guidelines that member states can adopt. The IAEA develops standards for radiation safety to protect health, safety, and the environment, focusing on ensuring that practices involving ionizing radiation are conducted in a safe manner.

This organization's role is crucial in addressing global challenges related to nuclear and radiological safety. By providing comprehensive safety standards and guidance, the IAEA plays an essential part in fostering international cooperation and compliance with radiation protection practices.

While other organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) also have roles in public health and environmental safety, their primary functions do not include the development of international radiation protection standards in the same explicit manner as the IAEA. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) is focused primarily on regulating nuclear reactors and materials within the United States, which is a more localized regulatory role compared to the IAEA's international scope.