PELINDABA Security

[Milmed]

South Africa’s nuclear research and technology programme started in the late 1950s, with the inception of and the construction of the SAFARI-1 nuclear reactor.
SAFARI-1 was built primarily as a research reactor, but its high flux operation meant it was also suitable for the generation of nuclear technology products,
including fission isotopes used in medical diagnostic and treatment procedures.

Pelindaba is the site of a nuclear research reactor and isotope processing facility built in 1977 near the Hartebeespoort Dam, in the Pretoria district of South Africa.
It takes its name from the farm on which it was established. The name means ‘the matter, is settled’ or 'the task is finished', referring to the dam which was completed when the water reached its highest level.

PELINDABA AEB/RAK - Atomic Energy Board (Afrikaans - Raad op Atoom Krag)
c.1982 the AEB became NUCOR - Nuclear Development Corporation of South Africa (Afrikaans - KERNKOR)


They had their own Security Division that protected the Pelindaba site.
As NUCOR, the Security Division commenced the first basic training course at the beginning of 1982.
Since then, most members have completed the course with positive results.

In addition to the basic course, an advanced course was also presented to more senior members. This course is presented to all members who wish to be promoted to higher ranks.
In 1982 two members passed UNISA's Security Management Courses and various members have enrolled for the course since.

Two members of the Division were trained as Task Force instructors with the cooperation of the South African Railway Police,
These two members then proceeded to present various Task Force courses at Pelindaba. The Task Force acts as a reaction unit during hostile attacks.

During February 1983 three members were trained as patrol dog guides and the establishment of a patrol dog unit then commenced.


PELINDABA Security Division Insignia:
First image is a cap and collar badge of AEB/RAK PELINDABA c.1977/78
Second image is an arm patch of AEB/RAK PELINDABA c.1977/78
Third image is a beret badge c.1982/83 onwards (NUCOR/KERNKOR)

[Alex Rice]

Interesting stuff, thanks Steven.

[Milmed]

Very little information exists on this Security division.

It would be nice to find out whether they wore any other insignia, ie. dog handlers badge or a Task force badge.
If anyone has any info to share, please add to the thread.

Thanks
Steven