Which agency regulates facilities that utilize radioisotopes?

The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) is the agency responsible for regulating facilities that utilize radioisotopes. This includes oversight of the use and handling of nuclear materials to ensure safety and compliance with federal regulations. The NRC sets safety standards for the use of radioisotopes in various applications, including medical, industrial, and research contexts.

The NRC's role is crucial because it oversees the licensing and inspection of facilities that use nuclear substances, ensuring that these materials are managed safely to protect both public health and the environment. By enforcing regulations regarding the handling, storage, and disposal of radioisotopes, the NRC helps prevent accidents and ensures that the benefits of using such materials can be realized without compromising safety.

In contrast, other agencies like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have different focuses. The EPA deals primarily with environmental regulations and pollution control, the FDA oversees food and drug safety, and the CDC specializes in public health and disease prevention. Each of these agencies plays important roles in their respective areas, but the regulation of radioisotopes falls specifically under the jurisdiction of the NRC.