analysis of irrs missions, 2006-2017 · 2018. 12. 10. · this report provides an analysis of the...
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ANALYSIS OF IRRS MISSIONS, 2006-2017
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Executive summary This report provides an analysis of the Integrated Regulatory Review Service (IRRS) missions
conducted from 2006 to 2017. During this period, the Agency conducted 69 initial missions and 26
follow-up missions. This is the first report to analyze all of the IRRS missions conducted to date.
IRRS missions vary substantially in their scope, based both on the nuclear and radiological activities
taking place in the Member State and the decision by the Member State on what activities to include in
the scope of the mission. Nevertheless, the 95 IRRS missions include sufficient information to draw
meaningful conclusions on general characteristics and trends.
The observations arising from an IRRS mission are categorized as:
• Recommendations: which reflect non-compliance with a requirement from the IAEA
Safety Standards;
• Suggestions: which identify opportunities for improvement: and,
• Good Practices: which identify regulatory practices superior to those observed elsewhere.
Almost half of the references for Recommendations and Suggestions are to GSR Part 1 (Rev. 1):
Governmental, Legal and Regulatory Infrastructure for Safety. GSR Part 3: Radiation Protection and
Safety of Radiation Sources: International Basic Safety Standards accounts for 15% of the references
with GSR Part 2: Leadership and Management for Safety, GSR Part 7: Preparedness and Response
for a Nuclear or Radiological Emergency each accounting for about 10% of the references.
The most frequently referenced GSR Part 1 (Rev. 1) requirements for Recommendations and
Suggestions were:
• Requirement 2: Establishment of a framework for safety;
• Requirement 24: Demonstration of safety for the authorization of facilities and activities;
• Requirement 32: Regulations and guides;
• Requirement 18: Staffing and competence of the regulatory body;
• Requirement 4: Independence of the regulatory body;
• Requirement 29: Graded approach to inspections of facilities and activities.
The most frequently referenced GSR Part 2 requirements for Recommendations and Suggestions
were:
• Requirement 10: Management of processes and activities;
• Requirement 8: Documentation of the management system;
• Requirement 13: Measurement, assessment and improvement of the management system;
• Requirement 6: Integration of the management system;
• Requirement 4: Goals, strategies, plans and objectives.
The most frequently referenced GSR Part 3 requirements for Recommendations and Suggestions
were:
• Requirement 2: Establishment of a legal and regulatory framework;
• Requirement 34: Responsibilities of the government specific to medical exposure;
• Requirement 38: Optimization of protection and safety (for medical exposure);
• Requirement 32: Monitoring and reporting (public exposure);
• Requirement 47: Responsibilities of the government specific to existing exposure
situations;
• Requirement 3: Responsibilities of the regulatory body.
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The most frequently referenced GSR Part 7 requirements for Recommendations and Suggestions
were:
• Requirement 2: Roles and responsibilities in emergency preparedness and response;
• Requirement 7: Identifying and notifying a nuclear or radiological emergency and
activating an emergency response;
• Requirement 25: Training, drills and exercises for emergency preparedness and response;
• Requirement 4: Hazard assessment;
• Requirement 23: Plans and procedures for emergency response.
For Good Practices, GSR Part 1 accounted for the most references. However, many IRRS missions
identified at least one Good Practice related to GSR Part 2, GSR Part 3 and GSR Part 7 requirements.
The most frequently referenced requirements all come from GSR Part 1, namely:
• Requirement 18: Staffing and competence of the regulatory body;
• Requirement 36: Communication and consultation with interested parties;
• Requirement 27: Inspection of facilities and activities;
• Requirement 14: International obligations and arrangements for international cooperation
and assistance;
• Requirement 24: Demonstration of safety for the authorization of facilities and activities.
Another way of categorizing IRRS observations is according to subject. In the analysis, each
observation was placed into one of 73 subject groups. The highest number of observations for
Recommendations and Suggestions were in the following subject groups:
• Basic safety requirements;
• Specific topics for regulations and guides;
• National policies and strategies for safety;
• Authorization procedures and guides;
• Providing / using the legal framework.
Regarding the topic of processes, procedures and guidance, these observations were broken out in the
various modules for management system, authorization, review and assessment, inspection,
enforcement and emergency preparedness and response. Taken together, however, they account for
289 Recommendations and 230 Suggestions, making the topic of procedures and guidance the most
frequent observation.
Not all Member States have requested a follow-up mission, where peer reviewers determine if
Recommendations and Suggestions can be closed or remain open. For those Member States that have
hosted a follow-up mission, the closure rate for Recommendations and Suggestions directed to
Member State governments is 73%, while the closure rate for Recommendations and Suggestions
directed to the regulatory body is 84%.
New observations are also normally included in follow-up missions, with more than 40% of these new
observations referencing a requirement in GSR Part 1. GSR Part 7, GSR Part 3 and Other
Requirements documents each account for around 14% of the references, while various Safety Guides
are referenced in about 10% of the observations. GSR Part 2 is referenced in about 5% of the
observations.
The requirements most frequently referenced in new Recommendations or Suggestions in follow-up
missions are all from GSR Part 1:
• Requirement 18: Staffing and competence of the regulatory body;
• Requirement 7: Coordination with different authorities;
• Requirement 33: Review of regulations and guides.
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• Requirement 16: Organizational structure of the regulatory body and allocation of
resources;
• Requirement 20: Liaison with advisory bodies and support organizations.
The report also noted in the outlook section that in some Member States some regulatory issues
require actions that are still work underway. The level of completion of actions associated with these
issues varies among different countries. For illustration, some highlights are presented here:
• The effective separation between the functions of the regulatory body and those of any
other body or organization concerned with the promotion or utilization of nuclear energy
is essential to ensure that the regulatory body is free from any undue pressure from
interested parties;
• The development of the regulatory body integrated management system is a key issue for
regulatory effectiveness;
• International cooperation for information exchange among regulatory bodies is essential
for enhancing nuclear and radiation safety worldwide;
• Processes, procedures and guidance are required for the regulatory body to conduct its
functions in a consistent manner;
• Sharing of IRRS recommendations, suggestions and good practices is of utmost
importance;
• Transparency and openness in the regulatory process is significantly improving as part of
new communication practices and consultations with the public and other interested
parties;
• There is an increasing harmonization between national safety standards and the IAEA
Safety Standards.
Finally, there is general consensus about the benefits of self-assessment and peer review processes and
the knowledge and experience exchange associated with the IRRS.
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Contents
Executive summary ................................................................................... i
1 Introduction ......................................................................................... 1
1.1 The Integrated Regulatory Review Service ............................................................. 1
1.2 Objective and scope ................................................................................................ 1
1.3 Structure of the report ............................................................................................ 1
2 Background.......................................................................................... 1
2.1 Structure of the IRRS ............................................................................................... 1
2.2 Relationship between IRRS and the IAEA Safety Standards ................................... 2
2.3 GSR Part 1 (Rev. 1) versus GS-R-1 ........................................................................... 3
2.4 GSR Part 2 versus GS-R-3 ......................................................................................... 4
2.5 GSR Part 7 versus GS-R-2 ......................................................................................... 4
2.6 Missions analyzed .................................................................................................... 4
2.7 Limitations and assumptions of the analysis .......................................................... 4
2.8 Basis for the analysis of findings to the IAEA Safety Standards .............................. 5
3 Analysis of Recommendation and Suggestion references to the IAEA Safety Standards ....................................................... 6
3.1 General references to IAEA Safety Standards ......................................................... 6
3.2 References to GSR Part 1: Governmental, Legal and Regulatory Infrastructure for Safety ....................................................................................................................... 7
3.3 References to GSR Part 3: Protection and Safety of Radiation Sources: International Basic Safety Standards ...................................................................... 8
3.4 References to GSR Part 2: Leadership and Management for Safety ...................... 9
3.5 References to GSR Part 7: Preparedness and Response for a Nuclear or Radiological Emergency......................................................................................... 11
4 Analysis of Good Practice references to the IAEA Safety Standards ........................................................................................... 12
4.1 Overall references to Good Practices .................................................................... 12
4.2 Good Practice references to GSR Part 1 ................................................................ 13
4.3 Good Practice references to GSR Part 2 ................................................................ 14
4.4 Good Practice references to GSR Part 3 ................................................................ 16
4.5 Good practice references to GSR Part 7 ................................................................ 17
5 Analysis of observations by subject groups ......................... 18
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5.1 Introduction ........................................................................................................... 18
5.2 Module 1: Responsibilities and functions of the government .............................. 19 5.2.1 Highlights of observations ............................................................................................... 20
5.3 Module 2: Global Nuclear Safety Regime ............................................................. 22 5.3.1 Highlights of observations ............................................................................................... 22
5.4 Module 3: Responsibilities and functions of the regulatory body ........................ 23 5.4.1 Highlights of observations ............................................................................................... 24
5.5 Module 4: Management system of the regulatory body ...................................... 25 5.5.1 Highlights of observations ............................................................................................... 26
5.6 Module 5: Authorization ....................................................................................... 27 5.6.1 Highlights of observations ............................................................................................... 27
5.7 Module 6: Review and assessment ....................................................................... 28 5.7.1 Highlights of observations ............................................................................................... 29
5.8 Module 7: Inspection............................................................................................. 30 5.8.1 Highlights of observations ............................................................................................... 31
5.9 Module 8: Enforcement ........................................................................................ 32 5.9.1 Highlights of observations ............................................................................................... 32
5.10 Module 9: Regulations and guides ........................................................................ 33 5.10.1 Highlights of observations ............................................................................................... 33
5.11 Module 10: Emergency preparedness and response (regulatory aspects) .......... 34 5.11.1 Highlights of observations ............................................................................................... 35
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5.12 Overall analysis of subject groups ......................................................................... 36
6 Follow-up missions ........................................................................ 39
6.1 Closure rates for Recommendations and Suggestions ......................................... 39
6.2 New observations resulting in Recommendations and Suggestions in follow-up missions ................................................................................................................. 39
7 Analysis of IRRS missions related to the regulation of operating nuclear power plants (NPPs) ............................... 42
7.1 Introduction ........................................................................................................... 42
7.2 Reference to IAEA Safety Standards ..................................................................... 42
7.3 Reference by subject group .................................................................................. 44
8 Analysis of IRRS missions related to the regulation of radioactive sources ........................................................................ 46
8.1 Introduction ........................................................................................................... 46
8.2 Reference to IAEA Safety Standards ..................................................................... 46
8.3 Reference by subject group .................................................................................. 49
9 Outlook ................................................................................................ 50
Appendix 1: Mapping of GS-R-1 to GSR Part 1 ........................... 51
1
1 Introduction
1.1 The Integrated Regulatory Review Service
In 2006, the Agency introduced the Integrated Regulatory Review Service (IRRS), which replaced its
IRRT, RaSSIA and TranSAS services, as well as the regulatory aspects of its EPREV service. To the
end of 2017, the Agency had conducted 95 IRRS missions (including both initial and follow-up
missions) to 65 Member States.
1.2 Objective and scope
This report summarizes the analysis of the IRRS missions conducted from 2006 to 2017. Although all
IRRS review missions cover key aspects of the regulatory programme in a Member State, the modular
nature of the IRRS service allows Member States to specify the scope of the review. In many cases,
the Member State requests a review of the entire regulatory programme, while in some cases, the
Member State requested that the IRRS review focus on a limited number of facilities and activities.
The result is that the scope of the various missions varies considerably in terms of size and
complexity.
1.3 Structure of the report
Chapter 2 provides the background to the IRRS and the nature of the analysis. Chapter 3 is the
analysis of the Recommendations and Suggestions references to the IAEA Safety Standards. Chapter 4
is the analysis of the Good Practices references to the IAEA Safety Standards. Chapter 5 is the
analysis of the observations by subject group and Chapter 6 is the analysis of information from follow-
up missions. Chapter 7 provides some details on IRRS observations regarding the regulation of
operating nuclear power plants. Chapter 8 provides some details on IRRS observations regarding the
regulation of radioactive sources. Chapter 9 provides an outlook for future work needed by Member
State governments and regulatory bodies to further enhance regulatory effectiveness.
2 Background
2.1 Structure of the IRRS
The Agency established the IRRS to strengthen and enhance the effectiveness of national regulatory
infrastructures for nuclear, radiation, radioactive waste and transport safety and the security of
radioactive sources while recognizing the ultimate responsibility of each Member State to ensure
safety. Using the IAEA Safety Standards, the IRRS considers both regulatory technical and regulatory
policy issues.
As Figure 1 shows, the IRRS has a modular structure designed to be tailored to both generic and
Member State specific needs and to facilitate the review of circumstances where the scope of
regulatory responsibility may be changing.
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Figure 1 Modular structure of the IRRS
The observations arising from an IRRS mission are categorized as:
• Recommendations: which reflect non-compliance with a requirement from the IAEA
Safety Standards;
• Suggestions: which identify opportunities for improvement;
• Good Practices: which identify regulatory practices superior to those observed
elsewhere.
To review the progress in the implementation of the Recommendations and Suggestions from the
IRRS mission, the Agency recommends that a follow-up mission takes place two to four years after
the initial mission. The follow-up mission will rate each Recommendation and Suggestion as either
closed or open. The follow-up mission will typically also identify further observations, resulting in
new Recommendations, Suggestions or Good Practices.
2.2 Relationship between IRRS and the IAEA Safety Standards
The IAEA Safety Standards provide the basis for all of the Agency’s safety related services, including
the IRRS. For the IRRS, the main safety standards used for the 2006 to 2017 missions are:
• GSR Part 1 (Rev. 1): Governmental, Legal and Regulatory Framework for Safety;
• GSR Part 2: Leadership and Management for Safety;
• GSR Part 3: Radiation Protection and Safety of Radiation Sources: International Basic
Safety Standards;
• GSR Part 7: Preparedness and Response for a Nuclear or Radiological Emergency.
In addition to these four main IAEA Safety Standards, IRRS missions frequently reference other
IAEA Safety Standards.
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GSR Part 1 (Rev. 1) comprises 36 overarching requirements on the governmental, legal and regulatory
framework for safety. The 36 requirements form the basis for the IRRS as shown in Table 1.
Table 1 Modules and the associated safety requirements of the IRRS
2.3 GSR Part 1 (Rev. 1) versus GS-R-1
The IRRS missions between 2006 and early 2010 were based on IAEA Safety Standard GS-R-1: Legal
and Governmental Infrastructure for Nuclear, Radiation, Radioactive Waste and Transport Safety,
published in 2000. This was superseded in 2010 by GSR Part 1, which was updated to GSR Part 1
(Rev.1) in 2016. GSR Part 1 (Rev.1) did not introduce any new requirements. Although the main
principles and requirements of GS-R-1 and GSR Part 1 (Rev. 1) are the same, they differ both in
structure and format. To be able to make valid statements on the references and observations of all
missions, references from GS-R-1 were converted to their equivalent in GSR Part 1 (Rev. 1) 1.
1 For the remainder of this document, (Rev. 1) is to be implied when references are made to GSR Part 1
Module No GSR Part 1 (Rev. 1) Overarching Requirement
1
R1: National policy and strategy
R2: Establishment of a framework for safety
R3: Establishment of a regulatory body
R4: Independence of the regulatory body
R5: Prime responsibility for safety
R6: Compliance with regulations and responsibility for safety
R7: Coordination of different authorities with responsibilities for safety within the regulatory framework for safety
R9: System for protective actions to reduce existing or unregulated radiation risks
R10: Provision for the decommissioning of facilities and the management of radioactive waste and of spent fuel
R11: Competence for safety
R13: Provision of technical services
2 R14: International obligations and arrangements for international cooperation
R15: Sharing of operating experience and regulatory experience
3
R16: Organizational structure of the regulatory body and allocation of resources
R17: Effective independence in the performance of regulatory functions
R18: Staffing and competence of the regulatory body
R20: Liaison with advisory bodies and support organizations
R21: Liaison between the regulatory body and authorized parties
R22: Stability and consistency of regulatory control
R35: Safety related records
R36: Communication and consultation with interested parties
4 R19: The management system of the regulatory body
5 R23: Authorization of facilities and activities by the regulatory body
R24: Demonstration of safety for the authorization of facilities and activities
6 R25: Review and assessment of information relevant to safety
R26: Graded approach to review and assessment of a facility or an activity
7
R27: Inspection of facilities and activities
R28: Types of inspection of facilities and activities
R29: Graded approach to inspections of facilities and activities
8 R30: Establishment of an enforcement policy
R31: Requiring of corrective action by authorized parties
9
R32: Regulations and guides
R33: Review of regulations and guides
R34: Promotion of regulations and guides to interested parties
10 R8: Emergency preparedness and response
11 Observations from Module 11 are reallocated to Modules 1-10 as appropriate
12 R12: Interfaces of safety with nuclear security and with the State system of accounting for, and control of, nuclear material
4
2.4 GSR Part 2 versus GS-R-3
The IRRS missions before 2016 were based on IAEA Safety Standard GS-R-3: The Management
System for Facilities and Activities, published in 2006. This was superseded in 2016 by GSR Part 2:
Leadership and Management for Safety. To be able to make valid statements on the references and
observations of all missions, references to GS-R-3 were converted to their equivalent in GSR Part 2.
2.5 GSR Part 7 versus GS-R-2
The IRRS missions before 2016 were based on IAEA Safety Standard GS-R-2: Preparedness and
Response for a Nuclear or Radiological Emergency, published in 2002. This was superseded in 2015
by GSR Part 7: Preparedness and Response for a Nuclear or Radiological Emergency. Although the
main principles and requirements of the two documents are the same, they differ both in structure and
format. To be able to make valid statements on the references and observations of all missions,
references to GS-R-2 were converted to their equivalent in GSR Part 7.
Moreover the content of the module 10 was revised in 2017 to ensure more adequate focus on the
regulatory aspects of emergency preparedness and response. This revision has been reflected in the
report template used from the second half of 2017. Therefore direct comparison might not be easily to
conduct. This has been taken into account in producing this report.
2.6 Missions analyzed
This analysis covers 69 initial and 26 follow-up IRRS missions to 65 Member States. Figure 2 shows
the year and location of the IRRS missions conducted. Follow-up missions are denoted by (f), the UK
part 2 mission was a mixture of follow-up and initial mission, all other missions were initial missions.
Belgium (f)
Tanzania
Botswana
Ireland
Cyprus
Republic of
Korea (f) Indonesia
South Africa
Czech Rep (f)
Niger
UAE
France Finland (f) Italy Ethiopia
Mexico Germany
Canada (f)
Zimbabwe Croatia Belarus France (f)
Mauritius Ukraine Russia
Switzerland
Netherlands Hungary Estonia Greece (f)
Cameroon
Sierra Leone
UK (part 2)
Australia (f)
Belgium Cameroon Armenia Kenya Guatemala
Kenya Namibia Vietnam
Slovenia
Czech Rep
Vietnam (f) Switzerland
(f) China (f) Jordan (f)
Uganda Madagascar Lebanon
Ukraine (f)
Germany (f)
Finland Russia
(f) Slovenia (f) Malta
Sweden (f)
FYR of Macedonia
France Gabon Botswana Canada USA Republic of
Korea Greece UK (f) Jordan India Lithuania Nigeria
UK Australia Spain Peru China Spain (f) Slovakia Bulgaria Pakistan Slovakia (f) Bulgaria
(f) Poland (f)
Romania Japan Cote
d’Ivoire France
(f) Iran Romania Sweden Poland USA (f) UAE (f) Japan
Romania (f)
2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017
Figure 2 IRRS Missions from 2006 to 2017
2.7 Limitations and assumptions of the analysis
IRRS missions vary substantially in their scope, based both on the nuclear and radiological facilities
and activities in the Member State and the decision by the Member State on what facilities and
activities to include in the scope. This analysis includes data from 95 IRRS missions, which is
sufficient to draw meaningful conclusions on general characteristics and trends. However, individual
mission data vary substantially, due to:
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• Scope and size of the mission;
• Composition, expertise and size of the team;
• Working methods of the team leader and members;
• Nuclear and radiological activities in the Member State;
• Evolution of the IRRS process over time.
2.8 Basis for the analysis of findings to the IAEA Safety Standards
The purpose of the IRRS is to assess the host Member State national regulatory infrastructure against
the relevant IAEA Safety Standards through a peer review. Thus, the Recommendations, Suggestions
and Good Practices identified during a mission are based on IAEA Safety Standards that are clearly
documented in the mission report. Any requirement in any IAEA Safety Standard may form the basis
for a Recommendation, Suggestion or Good Practice. Figure 3 shows how the IRRS mission report
identifies the basis for Recommendations, Suggestions and Good Practices.
Figure 3 Examples of IAEA Safety Standard requirements as bases for observations
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Each time a particular requirement from an IAEA Safety Standard was used as a basis for a
Recommendation or Suggestion was counted as a reference to that requirement. If two separate
requirements from the same IAEA Safety Standard were cited as the basis for a particular
Recommendation or Suggestion, then that would count as two references to that IAEA Safety
Standard. However, if a requirement was cited more than once for the same Recommendation or
Suggestion, then that would count as a single reference.
3 Analysis of Recommendation and Suggestion references to the IAEA Safety Standards
3.1 General references to IAEA Safety Standards
As Figure 4 shows, almost half of the references are to GSR Part 1. GSR Part 3 accounts for 15% of
the references, with GSR Part 2, GSR Part 7 and various IAEA Safety Guides accounting for around
10% each.
Figure 4 References to IAEA Safety Standards
Referring again to Figure 4, for the requirements documents (GSR Part 1, GSR Part 2, GSR Part 3 and
GSR Part 7), the references are predominantly related to Recommendations, while for the Safety
Guides, the references are predominantly related to Suggestions. This is as expected, since
Recommendations are only issued where there is non-compliance with a safety requirement. Guidance
documents identify approaches for achieving the safety requirements but do not introduce new safety
requirements. In every case where an IAEA Safety Guide is used as a basis for a Recommendation,
there is also an IAEA Safety Requirements document as a basis.
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3.2 References to GSR Part 1: Governmental, Legal and Regulatory Infrastructure for Safety
Figure 5 References to GSR Part 1 (sorted by Requirement number)
As Figure 5 shows, every requirement in GSR Part 1 was referenced by at least one Recommendation
and one Suggestion during the reporting period, with the references for Recommendations usually
outnumbering the references for Suggestions for a given requirement.
Figure 6 presents the same data sorted from most frequent to least.
Figure 6 References to GSR Part 1 (sorted by frequency)
Figure 6 shows that the following requirements are referenced most frequently:
• Requirement 2: Establishment of a framework for safety;
• Requirement 24: Demonstration of safety for the authorization of facilities and activities;
• Requirement 32: Regulations and guides;
0
20
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Recommendations
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Recommendations
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• Requirement 18: Staffing and competence of the regulatory body;
• Requirement 4: Independence of the regulatory body;
• Requirement 29: Graded approach to inspections of facilities and activities.
The least frequently referenced requirements are:
• Requirement 12: Interfaces of safety with nuclear security and with the State system of
accounting for, and control of, nuclear material;
• Requirement 21: Liaison between the regulatory body and authorized parties;
• Requirement 6: Compliance with regulations and responsibility for safety;
• Requirement 8: Emergency preparedness and response;
• Requirement 13: Provision of technical services.
3.3 References to GSR Part 3: Protection and Safety of Radiation Sources: International Basic Safety Standards
The second most frequently referenced requirements document was GSR Part 3. As Figure 7 shows,
almost three quarters of the references to GSR Part 3 were for Recommendations.
Figure 7 References to GSR Part 3 (sorted by frequency)
Figure 7 shows that the following GSR Part 3 requirements are referenced most frequently:
• Requirement 2: Establishment of a legal and regulatory framework;
• Requirement 34: Responsibilities of the government specific to medical exposure;
• Requirement 38: Optimization of protection and safety (for medical exposure);
• Requirement 32: Monitoring and reporting (public exposure);
• Requirement 47: Responsibilities of the government specific to existing exposure
situations;
• Requirement 3: Responsibilities of the regulatory body.
The following GSR Part 3 requirements are not referenced in any IRRS mission:
• Requirement 5: Management for protection and safety;
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
40
45
2 34 38 32 47 3 8 36 31 37 35 11 41 24 25 21 29 42 49 7 20 13 40 14 27 39 50 52 48 51 19 22 33 30 26 6 10 23 28 12 45 1 44 9 43 4 17 46 18 5 15 16
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Requirement number
Recommendations
Suggestions
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• Requirement 15: Prevention and mitigation of accidents;
• Requirement 16: Investigations and feedback of information on operating experience.
Of the GSR Part 3 requirements that are referenced in an IRRS mission, the least frequently
referenced requirements are:
• Requirement 18: Human imaging using radiation for purposes other than medical
diagnosis, medical treatment or biomedical research;
• Requirement 46: Arrangements for the transition from an emergency exposure situation
to an existing exposure situation;
• Requirement17: Radiation generators and radioactive sources;
• Requirement 4: Responsibilities for protection and safety;
• Requirement 43: Emergency management system;
• Requirement 9: Responsibilities of registrants and licensees in planned exposure
situations;
• Requirement 44: Preparedness and response for an emergency;
• Requirement 1: Application of the principles of radiation protection.
3.4 References to GSR Part 2: Leadership and Management for Safety
Figure 8 References to GSR Part 2
As shown in Figure 8, the five most common GSR Part 2 requirements referenced are:
• Management of processes and activities (Requirement 10);
• Documentation of the management system (Requirement 8);
• Measurement, assessment and improvement of the management system (Requirement
13);
• Integration of the management system (Requirement 6);
• Goals, strategies, plans and objectives (Requirement 4).
Figure 8 also shows that three GSR Part 2 requirements received fewer than 10 references:
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• Management of the supply chain (Requirement 11);
• Achieving the fundamental safety objective (Requirement 1);
• Interaction with interested parties (Requirement 5).
11
3.5 References to GSR Part 7: Preparedness and Response for a Nuclear or Radiological Emergency
Another frequently referenced standard in IRRS mission Recommendations and Suggestions was GSR
Part 7.
Figure 9 References to GSR Part 7
As shown in Figure 9, the top five requirements referenced are:
• Roles and responsibilities in emergency preparedness and response (Requirement 2);
• Identifying and notifying a nuclear or radiological emergency and activating an
emergency response (Requirement 7);
• Training, drills and exercises for emergency preparedness and response (Requirement
25);
• Hazard assessment (Requirement 4);
• Plans and procedures for emergency response (Requirement 23).
Figure 9 also shows that the following requirements were not referenced in any IRRS mission:
• Mitigating non-radiological consequences of a nuclear or radiological emergency and of
an emergency response (Requirement 16);
• Requesting, providing and receiving international assistance for emergency preparedness
and response (Requirement 17).
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4 Analysis of Good Practice references to the IAEA Safety Standards
4.1 Overall references to Good Practices
Another objective of the IRRS is to share Good Practices among regulatory bodies. Many IRRS initial
missions identified at least one Good Practice. Figure 10 shows the references related to Good
Practices.
Figure 10 Overall references to Good Practices
GSR Part 1 accounted for 65% of the references. However, IRRS missions identified Good Practices
related to GSR Part 2, GSR Part 3 and GSR Part 7 requirements. For GSR Part 1, the ratio of Good
Practices to Recommendations and Suggestions was 1:7, while for GSR Part 2 and GSR Part 7, the
ratio was around 1:10, and for GSR Part 3, the ratio was around 1:30.
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200
250
300
350
400
GSR Part 1 Safety Guides GSR Part 7 GSR Part 2 GSR Part 3 OtherRequirements
documents
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4.2 Good Practice references to GSR Part 1
Figure 11 Good Practice references to GSR Part 1 (sorted by frequency)
Figure 11 shows that every GSR Part 1 requirement except Requirements 6 and 13 were referenced in
at least one IRRS mission.
The top five requirements referenced with respect to a Good Practice are:
• Requirement 18: Staffing and competence of the regulatory body;
• Requirement 36: Communication and consultation with interested parties;
• Requirement 27: Inspection of facilities and activities;
• Requirement 14: International obligations and arrangements for international cooperation
and assistance;
• Requirement 24: Demonstration of safety for the authorization of facilities and activities.
The least referenced requirements with respect to a Good Practice are:
• Requirement 13: Provision of technical services;
• Requirement 6: Compliance with regulations and responsibility for safety;
• Requirement 30: Establishment of a compliance policy;
• Requirement 12: Interfaces of safety with nuclear security and with the State system of
accounting for and control of nuclear material;
• Requirement 5: Prime responsibility for safety.
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Figure 12 Recommendation & Suggestion vs Good Practice references to GSR Part 1
Figure 12 shows that, with three exceptions, the number of references to a requirement for Good
Practices is a small fraction of those references for Recommendations and Suggestions combined.
The three exceptions are for:
• Requirement 14: International obligations and arrangements for international cooperation;
• Requirement 21: Liaison between the regulatory body and authorized parties;
• Requirement 36: Communication and consultation with interested parties.
In these cases, the number of references to Good Practices is more than 40% of the number of
Recommendations and Suggestions combined.
4.3 Good Practice references to GSR Part 2
Figure 13 Good practices references to GSR Part 2
0
20
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2 24 32 18 4 29 27 7 23 33 22 19 16 26 25 30 1 20 31 10 36 11 28 17 15 3 14 34 35 9 5 13 8 6 21 12
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Good Practices
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Figure 13 shows that the GSR Part 2 requirements receiving the highest number of references for
Good Practices are:
• Provision of resources (Requirement 9);
• Management of processes and activities (Requirement 10);
• Foster a culture for safety (Requirement 12);
• Measurement, assessment and improvement of the management system.
Four requirements did not receive a reference for a Good Practice:
• Management of the supply chain (Requirement 11);
• Application of the graded approach (Requirement 7);
• Interaction with interested parties (Requirement 5);
• Achieving the fundamental safety objective (Requirement 1).
Figure 14 Recommendation & Suggestion vs Good Practice references to GSR Part 2
Referring to Figure 14, it is seen that for the number of references to a Good Practice is a fraction of
the number of references to a Recommendation or Suggestion.
Note that Requirement 11: Management of the supply chain, was never referenced in an IRRS
mission.
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4.4 Good Practice references to GSR Part 3
Figure 15 Good Practice references to GSR Part 3
Figure 15 shows that only 18 GSR Part 3 requirements were referenced for a Good Practice. The GSR
Part 3 requirements receiving more than one reference for a Good Practice are:
• Requirement 2: Establishment of a legal and regulatory framework;
• Requirement 30: Responsibilities of relevant parties specific to public exposure;
• Requirement 31: Radioactive waste and discharges;
• Requirement 32: Monitoring and reporting (public exposure);
• Requirement 37: Justification of medical exposures;
• Requirement 41: Unintended and accidental medical exposures;
• Requirement 49: Responsibilities for remediation of areas with residual radioactive
material.
Figure 16 Recommendation & Suggestion vs Good Practice references to GSR Part 3
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2 30 31 32 37 41 49 3 24 25 26 35 36 38 40 45 47 50
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2 34 38 32 47 3 8 36 31 37 35 11 41 24 25 21 29 42 49 7 20 13 40 14 27 39 50 52 48 51 19 22 33 30 26 6 10 23 28 12 45 1 44 9 43 4 17 46 18 5 15 16
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Recommendations & Suggestions
Good Practices
17
Referring to Figure 16, it is seen that the number of references to a Good Practice is a small fraction of
the number of references to a Recommendation or Suggestion.
Three GSR Part 3 requirements, namely:
• Requirement 5: Management and protection for safety;
• Requirement 15: Prevention and mitigation of accidents;
• Requirement 16: Investigations and feedback of information on operating experience,
have never been referenced in an IRRS mission. The essential elements of these three requirements are
covered by requirements in other IAEA Safety Standards.
4.5 Good practice references to GSR Part 7
Figure 17 Good Practice references to GSR Part 7
As Figure 17 shows, 17 GSR Part 7 requirements were referenced for a Good Practice. The GSR Part
7 requirements receiving more than two references are:
• Roles and responsibilities in emergency preparedness and response (Requirement 2);
• Logistical support and facilities for emergency response (Requirement 24);
• Managing operations in an emergency response (Requirement 6);
• Training, drills and exercises for emergency preparedness and response (Requirement
25);
• Identifying and notifying a nuclear or radiological emergency and activating an
emergency response (Requirement 7);
• Communicating with the public throughout a nuclear or radiological emergency
(Requirement 13);
• Plans and procedures for emergency response (Requirement 23).
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Figure 18 Recommendation & Suggestion vs Good Practice references to GSR Part 7
Referring to Figure 18, it is seen that, with three exceptions, the number of references to a Good
Practice is typically a small fraction of the number of references to a Recommendation or Suggestion.
For two of the exceptions, namely:
• Logistical support and facilities (Requirement 24);
• Emergency management system (Requirement 1),
the number of Good Practice references is around half of the Recommendation and Good Practice
references.
One requirement—Requirement 16: Mitigating the non-radiological consequences of a nuclear or
radiological emergency— is only referenced for a Good Practice.
Finally, one requirement—Requirement 17: Requesting, providing and receiving international
assistance for emergency preparedness and response—was not referenced in any IRRS mission.
5 Analysis of observations by subject groups
Another way of categorizing the observations from IRRS missions is to sort them according to the
subject. The subjects that more frequently result in Recommendations and Suggestions should receive
further consideration, as this indicates that a number of Member States may face the similar
challenges.
5.1 Introduction
The subject groups do not have exact definitions; rather they comprise sufficient numbers of
observations sharing the same or similar characteristics. Consequently, although a mission report may
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Good Practices
19
place a Recommendation in a particular module, for the purpose of this analysis, observations may be
allocated to another, more appropriate subject group in another module.
In the following sections, the number of observations (Recommendations, Suggestions and Good
Practices) for each module are tabulated, with those subject groups with the most observations
highlighted.
Observations from Module 11 2 of IRRS missions have been reallocated to Modules 1 to 10 as
appropriate. Every observation from the IRRS missions is included in the analysis by subject groups.
In the following sections, the number of observations (Recommendations, Suggestions and Good
Practices) for each module is tabulated, with those subject groups with the most observations
highlighted.
5.2 Module 1: Responsibilities and functions of the government
There are eight subject groups associated with the responsibilities and functions of the government:
a) Cooperation/interaction among organizations, bodies: Role of the regulatory body in various
fields and cooperation amongst the respective authorities; coordination with other
governmental organizations; common use of databases; memoranda of understanding.
b) National policies and strategies for safety: National safety policy and strategy; training
policy and strategy; competence/human resources building strategy.
c) Providing resources to the regulatory body: Provision of financial and human resources by
the government; resources for international cooperation; adjusting funding to workload.
d) Providing/using legal framework for regulatory activities: Revision of regulations to provide
authority; reflecting independence of the regulatory body; issuance of decrees and orders;
relieving time constraints on decision making.
e) Transparency, public involvement: Determining the role of the public in the regulatory
process; stakeholder engagement; establishing communication strategy; informing the public;
meeting with residents; public consultations; impact of transparency on safety.
f) Prime responsibility for safety: Clarifying the responsibilities of the regulatory body;
declaration by law; declaration by the regulatory body.
g) Building competence in safety: Recommending training for other organizations; qualification
and registration of experts; establishment of international school; capacity building
programme for students.
x) Other: Any other government responsibilities and functions subject not included above.
As Table 2 shows, a total of 825 observations were related to the responsibilities and functions of the
government, the largest number of any module. Four subject groups accounted for most of these
observations, namely:
• Cooperation / interaction among organizations, bodies;
• National policies and strategies for safety;
• Providing / using the legal framework for regulatory activities;
• Independence of the regulatory body.
Table 1 Number of observations by subject group for government responsibilities and functions
Subject group R S GP
2 Such as: transport; control of medical exposures, occupational radiation protection; control of radioactive
discharges and materials for clearance; environmental monitoring associated with authorized practices for public
radiation protection purposes; control of chronic exposures and remediation
20
a Cooperation/interaction among organizations, bodies 62 55 16
b National policies and strategies for safety 136 51 15
c Providing resources to the regulatory body 43 6 0
d Providing/using legal framework for regulatory activities 138 31 12
e Transparency, public involvement 17 26 27
f Prime responsibility for safety 20 16 2
g Building competence in safety 34 23 12
h Independence of the regulatory body 58 19 5
x Other 1 0 0
Σ Sum of observations 509 227 89
5.2.1 Highlights of observations
5.2.1.1 Cooperation / interaction among organizations, bodies
Arrangements should be made for the effective coordination of the authorities having regulatory
responsibilities for nuclear and radiation safety, as well as those responsible for the regulation of the
transport of radioactive material. Consideration should be given to assigning one organization the
responsibility for coordinating the nuclear and radiological safety infrastructure.
Formal agreements and memoranda of understanding should be used to clarify the relationships
between organizations.
Consideration should be given to conducting joint activities, such as review and assessment and
inspections.
5.2.1.2 National policies and strategies for safety
A national policy and strategy for safety should be established. The policy and strategy should include
all nuclear and radiological facilities and activities in the Member State, including decommissioning,
waste management and the transport of radioactive material.
The national strategy should include mechanisms for the funding of the decommissioning of nuclear
and radiological facilities.
Time limits prescribed for the completion of a safety review prior to the granting of an authorization
for a facility or activity should be flexible enough to ensure safety is not compromised.
Organizations taking actions to recover and manage orphan sources should have access to adequate
funding and resources.
Action should be taken to bring all unlicensed nuclear and radiological facilities under regulatory
control.
An action plan for controlling public exposure due to radon should be established and implemented.
5.2.1.3 Providing resources to the regulatory body
The regulatory body should have sufficient human and financial resources to completely fulfil its
statutory regulatory obligations.
21
5.2.1.4 Providing / using the legal framework for regulatory activities
The legal framework should extend to include all nuclear and radiological facilities and activities in
the Member State, including the regulation of patient protection, transport of radioactive material,
waste management and disposal of radioactive material.
The legal framework should clearly delineate the roles, responsibilities and authorities of the various
entities in the Member States and should include a requirement that a positive decision from the
regulatory body is a prerequisite to issuing an authorization.
The legal framework should empower the regulatory body to establish requirements for authorization.
The legal framework should include provisions for an applicant or authorized party to appeal a
decision of the regulatory body.
The legal framework should explicitly address the interface between safety and security, including
oversight and enforcement.
5.2.1.5 Transparency, public involvement
Interested parties including the public should be informed and consulted regarding possible radiation
risks associated with facilities and activities, and about the processes and decisions of the regulatory
body. Specific provisions should be in place to foster consultation of interested parties in regulatory
body processes.
5.2.1.6 Prime responsibility for safety
Legislation should explicitly assign primary responsibility for safety to the persons or organizations
responsible for facilities and activities.
5.2.1.7 Building competence in safety
Provisions should be in place to ensure the competence of all parties having responsibilities for the
safety of facilities and activities.
Appropriate qualification requirements should be established and training arrangements should be
made to ensure a reliable supply of competent radiation specialists (i.e., Radiation Protection Officers,
medical radiation technologists, radiopharmacists and radiochemists).
A process for the formal recognition of medical physicists and qualified experts for radiation
protection should be established.
Provisions should be in place for research and development programmes to support nuclear and
radiological safety.
5.2.1.8 Independence of the regulatory body
Provisions should be in place to ensure that the regulatory body is effectively separate from entities
having responsibilities or interests that could unduly influence its decision-making.
The regulatory body should have the authority to assign its resources and reorganize or restructure to
enable it to discharge its assigned responsibilities.
22
With regard to the national policy and strategy, the regulatory body should limit its advice to nuclear
and radiological safety issues. In addition, the regulatory body should avoid assuming responsibilities
that conflict with its statutory regulatory responsibilities.
5.2.1.9 Good Practices
• A statutory requirement to comply with IAEA Safety Standards.
• Cooperation between the regulatory body and police and customs services supports an
integrated approach to safety and security of radiation sources.
• The national radon control strategy uses a “top down” approach driven by Government,
ensuring all stakeholders work together.
• The Member State system of radiation protection education and training is exemplary.
• The promotion of public education on national television and the engagement of the
regulatory body to provide technical expertise.
• Routine workshops and training for news media to inform them of the safety of facilities
and activities, and about the processes and decisions of the regulatory body.
5.3 Module 2: Global Nuclear Safety Regime
There are three subject groups associated with the Global Nuclear Safety Regime:
a) Operating and regulatory experience exchange with international community: Operating
and regulatory experience feedback in line with the international recommendations; exchange
with the international community; publication of research results and experience; action plan
based on review missions; use of IAEA Safety Standards.
b) Relationship with international organizations: Resources for international cooperation; role
of national coordinator; inviting IRRS missions; participation in international conventions.
c) Relationship with other countries’ regulatory bodies: Establishing liaison and cooperation
with neighbouring countries, countries with similar technology and countries supplying
technology or equipment.
x) Other: Any other Global Nuclear Safety Regime subject not included above.
Table 3 shows that 103 observations were related to the Global Nuclear Safety Regime, the fewest
number of any module. This module was unique in that the number of Good Practices was almost the
same as the number of Recommendations.
Table 2 Number of observations by subject group for Global Nuclear Safety Regime
Subject group R S GP
a Operating and regulatory experience exchange with international community 8 8 9
b Relationship with international organizations 15 20 9
c Relationships with other countries’ regulatory bodies 8 14 12
x Other 0 0 0
Σ Sum of observations 31 42 30
5.3.1 Highlights of observations
5.3.1.1 Operating and regulatory experience exchange with international community
Arrangements for operating and regulatory experience feedback should include radiation safety and
radiation protection. The operating and regulatory experience feedback should be disseminated to
authorized parties, the regulatory body and other relevant authorities.
23
5.3.1.2 Relationship with international organizations
Resources should be provided to enable active participation in international cooperation activities for
safety, such as sharing of regulatory experience and participation in IAEA safety review missions.
5.3.1.3 Relationships with other countries’ regulatory bodies
Neighbouring countries should be included in the public consultation process for nuclear facilities that
could affect those countries.
Countries should liaise with, and establish arrangements with, regulatory bodies of other countries
using similar technology.
5.3.1.4 Good Practices
• Active engagement in international cooperation including international arrangements,
peer reviews and international support programmes.
• Use of state-of-the-art safety standards from foreign regulatory bodies to cover gaps in
the national framework.
5.4 Module 3: Responsibilities and functions of the regulatory body
There are nine subject groups associated with the responsibilities and functions of the regulatory body:
a) Staffing of the regulatory body: Staffing needs; recruitment programme; rotation of positions;
exchange of staff with technical support organizations; retention, hiring, motivation of staff;
filling vacancies; recruitment of successors.
b) Competence of the regulatory body: Necessary/adequate qualifications and expertise;
competence requirements; continuity of actions and consistency of priorities following staff
changes; capability of performing tasks; procedure and control of staff qualification needs.
c) Resources of the regulatory body: Determining/planning/reviewing resource needs for given
tasks; managing available resources; financing external support; salaries; charging fees for
regulatory activities; resources for research activities.
d) Organization of the regulatory body: Evaluating task assessments; integration of inspector
tasks; reviewing the organization to increase effectiveness; internal cooperation.
e) Developing documents for regulatory activities and cooperation: Research and development
programme; cooperation documents; document management.
f) External involvement in the regulatory process: Advisory committees; involvement of other
organizations in nuclear safety matters; technical support organizations; policy for seeking
external expert advice; relationship with licensees.
g) Training of regulatory body personnel: Establishment of a systematic training programme;
specific contents of training; training requirements of staff; mentoring programme.
h) Decision-making process, content of decisions: Developing/reviewing the decision-making
process; communicating the bases of decisions; diverse decision formats.
x) Other: Any other regulatory body responsibilities and functions subject not included above.
As seen in Table 4, there were 292 observations related to the responsibilities and functions of the
regulatory body, the third highest number of observations for a module. The subject groups most
frequently identified were:
• Staffing of the regulatory body;
• Competence of the regulatory body;
• Training of the regulatory body.
24
Also note the large number of Good Practices identified for training of the regulatory body.
Table 3 Number of observations by subject group for Regulatory Body Responsibilities and Functions
Subject group R S GP
a Staffing of the regulatory body 30 24 8
b Competence of the regulatory body 21 31 9
c Resources of the regulatory body 10 10 2
d Organization of the regulatory body 5 12 1
e Developing documents for regulatory activities and cooperation 8 6 1
f External involvement in the regulatory process 7 13 3
g Training of the regulatory body 30 19 13
h Decision making process, contents of decisions 13 5 3
x Other 0 4 4
Σ Sum of observations 124 124 44
5.4.1 Highlights of observations
5.4.1.1 Staffing of the regulatory body
A long term human resources plan to ensure the availability and competence of staff involved in
regulatory functions should be developed and maintained.
Procedures should be developed so that personnel are selected and trained so they have the requisite
knowledge, skills and abilities for the position.
5.4.1.2 Competence of the regulatory body
The regulatory body should have access to technical capabilities to review and assess safety
submissions. The regulatory body should have sufficient expertise in radiation safety.
5.4.1.3 External involvement in the regulatory process
The regulatory body should consult and communicate with interested parties, including the public, on
regulatory judgements and decisions.
5.4.1.4 Training of the regulatory body
Comprehensive training plans should be created and implemented to improve knowledge, skills and
abilities to perform all the functions and responsibilities.
The regulatory body should establish a process for developing and maintaining the necessary
competences and skills of its staff.
5.4.1.5 Decision-making process, contents of decisions
The regulatory body should record the results and decisions arising from review and assessment of
applications.
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5.4.1.6 Good Practices
• A system, implemented annually, for establishing and addressing the competence and
training needs among its staff aimed at improving their contribution to achievement of
organizational goals;
• Employees are included in systematic planning and follow-up of training. The
dissemination of information of the lessons learned in international courses and seminars,
and the self-assessment of the usefulness of received training is an integral part of the
management of training.
5.5 Module 4: Management system of the regulatory body
There are seven subject groups associated with the management system of the regulatory body:
a) Developing an integrated management system, general: Commitment to establish a
management system; person responsible for developing the management system; improving
the management system; managers to be involved in the development; communicating the
management system to staff; process map.
b) Details of, and documenting the management system: Development of processes and
procedures, updating documentation.
c) Management system review and audits: Self assessments, independent assessments, audits,
review methodology.
d) Safety culture: Formalization; common understanding; assessment; survey; promotion by
management.
e) Knowledge management and information technology tools: Intranet applications;
implementation of a knowledge management system; document management; records
management; tracking regulatory actions.
f) Managing organizational changes: Develop process; include in the management system.
x) Other: Any other regulatory body management system subject not included above.
Table 5 shows that there were 317 observations associated with the management system of the
regulatory body, with the most common subject groups being the development of the integrated
management system and knowledge management and information technology tools.
Table 4 Number of observations by subject group for Management System
Subject group R S GP
a Developing an (integrated) management system, general 75 23 11
b Details of and documenting the management system 24 24 2
c Management system review and audits 11 22 5
d Safety culture 12 20 7
e Knowledge management and information technology tools 20 35 18
f Managing organizational changes 3 5 0
x Other 0 0 0
Σ Sum of observations 145 129 43
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5.5.1 Highlights of observations
5.5.1.1 Developing an integrated management system, general
The regulatory body should establish and implement an integrated management system, based on GSR
Part 2.
An individual should be appointed with the authority to coordinate and develop the integrated
management system and to raise issues relating to the management system to senior management.
The regulatory body should identify, develop and document all key processes contributing to safety.
5.5.1.2 Details of and documenting the management system
All the key elements of the management system should be documented and staff should have ready
access to this documentation.
5.5.1.3 Management system reviews and audits
A system for self-assessment and independent assessment of leadership for safety and of safety culture
in the organization should be developed.
5.5.1.4 Safety culture
The management system of the regulatory body should be developed so as to foster a strong safety
culture and provide structure and direction in a way that permits and promotes the development of
such a culture.
5.5.1.5 Knowledge management and information technology tools
A records management policy should be developed to ensure that the regulatory body maintains all the
records necessary to account for the safe operation of facilities and the safe conduct of activities.
A national register of radiation sources should be established. This national register should also
include records of the occupational exposure history of each worker.
Provisions should be in place for a national system of records covering all the data gathered before,
during and after remediation.
5.5.1.6 Good Practices
• A documented system provides a link between the legislation mandating the organization
and individual contribution to delivery of goals, including corporate values and
behavioural expectations.
• Annually, senior management visits all functional units of the regulatory body and
discusses the goals and topical issues of the organization directly with employees.
• Legislation requires the regulatory body to periodically conduct a self-assessment and
invite an international peer review.
• Safety culture self-assessment.
• A regulatory framework web-portal with links between different levels of requirements
and guides.
• Web-based systems for new licence applications and for renewals and amendments of
existing licences and for collection of transport of radioactive material information.
27
5.6 Module 5: Authorization
There are seven subject groups associated with authorization:
a) Authorization of modifications and backfitting: Safety classifications; accounting for state of
the art in other Member States; basis for decision; approval of organizational changes; safety
assessment.
b) Authorization of new facilities and activities: Preparations; authorization process; pre-
certification; updating licensing criteria.
c) Licensee authorizations permitted by the regulator, graded approach: Collecting experience;
adopting graded approach.
d) Procedures and guidance: Steps for licence issuance; categorization of modifications; format
and content of applications; consistency of provisions; risk information; use of IAEA Safety
Standards.
e) Authorization of personnel, confirming competence: Direct evidence of qualifications;
positions to be included; qualification requirements; consistent and graded approaches;
adequate training.
f) Licence duration and hold points: Hold point for integrated review; hold points for operation;
authorization before licence expiry; licence renewal; time limits for licences.
g) Scope of authorizations: The range of activities covered by the activities of the regulatory
body; gaps, omissions and overlaps in authorizations
h) Radioactive source registry: Establishment and maintenance of a comprehensive radioactive
source inventory in the country
x) Other: Any other authorization subject not included above.
The authorization module was just behind inspection for the highest number of observations, at 415.
However, it had the highest number of observations resulting in Recommendations and Suggestions.
Table 6 shows that procedures and guidance accounted for the most authorization observations. Also
note that IRRS reviewers also identified ten Good Practices for that same subject group.
Table 5 Number of observations by subject group for Authorization
Subject group R S GP
a Authorization of modifications and back-fittings 8 4 4
b Authorization of new facilities and activities 19 10 5
c Authorization by licensee / graded approach 43 29 2
d Procedures and guidance 111 73 16
e Authorization of personnel, confirming competence 22 13 6
f License validity time and hold points 2 6 0
g Scope of authorizations 3 3 1
h Radioactive source registry 14 7 6
x Other 7 0 1
Σ Sum of observations 229 145 41
5.6.1 Highlights of observations
5.6.1.1 Authorization of new facilities and activities
A process should be established, in accordance with a graded approach, for the authorization of
facilities and activities as required by GSR Part 1 and GSR Part 3. The requirements for authorization
28
should include the detailed specification of all radiation sources/devices associated with the facility or
activity.
The regulatory body should approve transport packages or validate the approval certificates of
transport packages in accordance with SSR-6.
5.6.1.2 Graded approach
The regulatory body should establish guidance for staff on the implementation of the graded approach
in all its regulatory processes.
The regulatory system for protection and safety should include a process for notification, with criteria
for when notification only is sufficient.
The principle of a graded approach should be included the nuclear and radiological safety law.
5.6.1.3 Procedures and guidance
The regulatory framework should include the arrangements and responsibilities for justification and
optimization of practices and only justified practices should be authorized.
Existing exposure situations should be evaluated to determine which occupational exposures and
public exposures are of concern.
There should be objective and clear criteria and procedures for issuing, amending, renewing,
suspending and revoking an authorization. The authorization process for facilities should proceed in
distinct steps (e.g. facility design, construction, operation, closure). Where appropriate, inspection
findings, regulatory actions and feedback from operational performance should be taken into account
in authorization decisions. The authorization process should include provisions for the appeal of a
decision.
The authorization process for facilities should include a requirement for a decommissioning plan.
5.6.1.4 Competence of qualified experts and staff, including authorization
A process should be in place regarding the formal recognition of qualified experts for radiation
protection and for medical physicists.
There should be a requirement for authorized parties to designate a radiation protection officer and to
provide radiation protection training to all employees.
5.6.1.5 Good Practice
• For Category 1 safety modifications, a condition is added to the authorization amendment
requiring the authorized party to notify the regulatory body of the installation and testing
dates of the modification and to submit test data. The regulatory body uses this
information to plan subsequent inspections and independently validate the
appropriateness of facility modifications.
5.7 Module 6: Review and assessment
There are ten subject groups associated with review and assessment:
a) Developing the review and assessment process: Human factors and organizational aspects;
graded approach; safety analysis report; commissioning programme.
29
b) Procedures and guidance: Review and assessment process of nuclear facilities; periodic
verifications/safety review; acceptance of external experts; licensee safety performance.
c) Technical support: Identification of available support; ensuring availability; financing;
competence.
d) Independent verification by the licensee: Requiring; independence.
e) Operational experience feedback: Identification, sharing lessons learned; strengthening the
process; event reporting and analysis; collecting events from other facilities.
f) Periodic Safety Review, updating the Safety Analysis Report: Need for periodic safety
review, process for review of periodic safety review, regular updating of safety analysis
report.
g) Probabilistic Safety Analysis (PSA): Review of the PSA model; considering probabilistic
insight; assessing operator performance; severe accident management; risk-informed decision
making; use of PSA as a regulatory tool.
h) Ageing management: Consistency of assessment methods; guidance; extension to newer
NPPs.
i) Safety performance: Safety performance indicators; assessing operator performance.
x) Other: Any other review and assessment subject not included above.
Table 7 shows that 224 observations were related to review and assessment. procedures and guidance
were the subject most frequently identified in review and assessment. IRRS missions also identified 22
Good Practices related to review and assessment procedures and guidance, the most of any subject
group in any module. IRRS reviewers identified more Good Practices (57) in review and assessment
than in any other module.
Table 6 Number of observations for Review and Assessment
Subject group R S GP
a Developing the review and assessment process 5 3 6
b Procedures and guidance 36 29 9
c Technical support 1 3 0
d Independent verification by the licensee 10 4 0
e Operational experience feedback 13 18 12
f Periodic Safety Review, updating Safety Analysis Report 17 19 4
g Probabilistic safety analysis 0 10 4
h Ageing management 3 3 2
i Safety performance 5 3 5
x Other 0 0 0
Σ Sum of observations 90 92 42
5.7.1 Highlights of observations
5.7.1.1 Procedures and guidance
Requirements should be established for the safety assessment to be submitted by applicants.
Procedures should be developed for the review and assessment of these submissions and for the
recording of the results.
Procedures and instructions should ensure sufficient information is gathered, reviewed and assessed in
order to verify the continued safety of transport packages that do not require specific regulatory body
approval in the country of origin.
30
Existing exposure situations should be identified comprehensively and systematically evaluated in
order to control public exposures.
5.7.1.2 Operational experience feedback
A formal process should exist for reviewing events. The process should include events at both in the
Member State and internationally.
The operating experience feedback process should be reviewed periodically to confirm that the criteria
require the reporting of all safety significant events, that lessoned are learned from these events and
that appropriate and timely measures are taken to prevent recurrence.
5.7.1.3 Periodic safety review, updating safety analysis report
There should be a requirement for authorized parties to periodically update their safety assessments.
5.7.1.4 Good Practices
• Requirement for periodic safety review for Category I, II and III sources;
• Established performance indicators to monitor research reactor performance;
• Scoring table for NPPs to aide in the determination of appropriate post event
investigations and oversight of corrective actions.
• Software developed by regulatory body to independently and quickly assess licensee
submissions.
• Requirement for ageing management programme for research reactors.
• Requirement for full scope level 1 and level 2 PSA for research reactors.
5.8 Module 7: Inspection
There are ten subject groups associated with inspection:
a) Developing the inspection programme: Preparations for inspections, development of
inspection plans; assessment, review, expansion of the programme; balance of resources for
specific inspections; inspections outside working hours; unannounced inspections; inspection
of all facilities; access to the sites.
b) Use of previous results: Use of periodic safety review and operating experience results in
inspection programme; use of performance information; use of licensee assessment reports;
optimizing objectivity of inspectors; inspection of specific activities.
c) Procedures and guidance: Inspection in general, inspection of human and organizational
issues; to enhance consistency; for reactive inspection; for follow-up; on recording issues;
checklists for inspection.
d) Follow-up of inspections: Need for; compilation of and access to a database; evaluation of
effectiveness of inspections; presentation of results, drawing conclusions; sharing lessons
learned from manufacturing; summarizing, analyzing and publishing inspection results;
tracking compliance.
e) Preparation of inspection reports: Standardization of the report format; inclusion of
references to requirements; timing of reporting.
f) Site inspectors: Objectivity and independence; rotation.
g) Inspection team composition: Removing the limitations, conflicts; diversity of team
members.
h) Graded approach: for inspection programme; for procedures; for inspection frequency; for
daily inspections.
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i) Inspector training and qualification: Systematic process for training inspectors, formal
qualification or designation as inspector.
x) Other: Any other inspection subject not included above.
With 299 observations, inspection had the largest number of observations for a module. Table 8 shows
that the development of the inspection programme and its associated procedures and guidance were
the most common subject group in Module 7. There was also a high number of Suggestions related to
inspector training and qualification.
Table 7 Number of observations by subject group for Inspection
Subject group R S GP
a Developing the inspection programme/system 65 46 13
b Use of previous results 1 9 1
c Procedures and guidance 24 47 11
d Follow-up of inspections (monitor, evaluate, share) 2 6 5
e Preparation of inspection reports 3 4 0
f Site inspectors 0 4 5
g Inspector team composition 0 0 0
h Graded approach 10 5 3
i Inspector training and qualification 9 17 9
x Other 0 0 0
Σ Sum of observations 114 138 47
5.8.1 Highlights of observations
5.8.1.1 Developing the inspection programme/system
The regulatory body should be empowered to have free access to all facilities and activities to verify
compliance with regulatory requirements. This should include the ability of the regulatory body to
conduct not just programmed inspections, but reactive inspections as a result of an incident or
unplanned event.
An inspection programme, be commensurate with the radiation risks associated with the facility or
activity and covering all areas relevant to safety and radiation protection, should be established and
implemented. The inspection programme should include both announced and unannounced
inspections. The inspection programme should cover the entire life cycle of a facility.
The inspection programme should include examination of the authorized party’s management system,
including safety culture. The programme should cover the entire range of regulated activities in the
Member State, including the transport of radioactive material. Where appropriate, the programme
should extend to manufacturers and suppliers.
5.8.1.2 Procedures and guidance
Inspection procedures should be developed, approved and implemented. These procedures should
cover all pre-inspection, inspection and post-inspection activities. The procedures should include the
requirement for inspectors to conduct tests and take measurements as appropriate for independent
verification of safety of facilities and activities. The procedures should include checklists as required.
32
Procedures for joint inspections with other organizations and bodies should ensure effective
coordination.
5.8.1.3 Inspector training and qualification
A plan should be developed for increasing the number of staff with the required competencies to be
nominated as inspectors. A formal programme for inspector training and qualification should be
established.
5.8.1.4 Good Practices
• Formal ISO accreditation of inspection activities.
• Conduct of “verification” inspections to identify institutions and individuals who require
an authorization but who have never applied; and the requirement for them to either
obtain authorization or cease the activities.
5.9 Module 8: Enforcement
There are five subject groups associated with enforcement:
a) Developing the enforcement programme: Documentation of violations; legal basis for
authority.
b) Developing enforcement policy, tools and guidance: Enforcement policy; reviewing
enforcement tools; developing guidance; provisions for appeal.
c) Graded approach: including legal basis.
d) Sanctions: Range of sanctions, against both organizations and individuals.
x) Other: Any other enforcement subject not included above.
As Table 9 shows, there were 105 observations related to enforcement, with only one Good Practice
identified. Table 9 shows that almost all of the observations in Module 8 relate to the establishment of
the enforcement policy and the associated tools and guidance.
Table 8 Number of observations by subject group for Enforcement
Subject group R S GP
a Establishing the enforcement policy and system 38 13 2
b Developing enforcement tools and guidance 17 21 1
c Graded approach 0 2 0
d Sanctions 4 6 0
x Other 1 0 0
Σ Sum of observations 60 42 3
5.9.1 Highlights of observations
5.9.1.1 Establishment of an enforcement policy
Detailed procedures for determining and exercising enforcement actions should be established. Staff
should be trained in, and knowledgeable about, these procedures.
Inspectors should have the authority to require corrective actions where there is significant safety
hazard.
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5.9.1.2 Development of enforcement tools and guides
Procedures to implement the enforcement policy should be kept up-to-date. Enforcement tools should
be harmonized and applied using a graded approach.
Occupational exposure should be controlled in all activities, including transport of radioactive
material, so that dose limits are not exceeded.
5.10 Module 9: Regulations and guides
There are five subject groups associated with regulations and guides:
a) Developing of regulations and guides in general: Policy, strategy, plans of; resources; review
of the process; identification and issuance of regulations and guides; external support; public
involvement; performance-based standards; use of international standards.
b) Review of regulations and guides: Need for; feedback from interested parties; for inclusion of
specific issues; defining periodicity; order of priority; terminology.
c) Basic safety requirements: Observations related to conformance of Member State regulations
and guides with GSR Part 3: Radiation Protection and Safety of Radiation Sources:
International Basic Safety Standards.
d) Specific regulation or guide topics: Observations related to a specific document or topic
except for those covered by GSR Part 3.
x) Other: Any other regulations and guides subject not included above.
There were 633 observations related to regulations and guides, and as Table 10 shows, these
observations were mostly related to the development of regulations and guides in general. Although
there were a large number of observations related to specific regulations or guides, no pattern emerged
from the nature of these observations.
Table 9 Number of observations by subject group for regulations and guides
Subject group R S GP
a Development of regulations and guides in general 53 38 17
b Review of regulations and guides 12 18 2
c Basic safety requirements 171 73 9
d Specific topics for regulations and guides 151 75 14
x Other 0 0 0
Σ Sum of observations 387 204 42
5.10.1 Highlights of observations
5.10.1.1 Developing regulations and guides in general
Processes for establishing or adopting, promoting and amending regulations and guides, including
consultation with interested parties, should be developed. These processes should take into account
internationally agreed standards and the feedback of relevant experience. Regulations and guides
should be in place for all regulated facilities and activities.
5.10.1.2 Basic safety requirements
Regulations and guides should be consistent with GSR Part 3 and should address worker, public and
medical exposures. The regulations should include requirements for adequate records of both
34
individual and workplace monitoring. The regulations should address the concepts of exemption and
clearance.
The regulations should require that workers are provided with training and the necessary equipment to
protect themselves from radiological hazards, and that workers use any provided equipment. In cases
where workers perform work in radiological areas not under control of their employer, the regulations
should require appropriate coordination and allocation of radiation protection responsibilities.
Conditions of service of workers should be independent of whether they are, or could be, subject to
occupational exposure. The concept of dose constraints should be an aspect of optimization of
protection for occupationally exposed workers.
The regulatory body should initiate development of requirements and develop associated guidance for
verification of compliance with discharge limits for all facilities.
5.10.1.3 Specific topics for regulations and guides
Many of the recommendations and suggestions were very specific. However, some issues that were
mentioned more than once include regulations regarding authorized party management systems,
problem identification and corrective action programmes, transport of radioactive material,
environmental protection, decommissioning and spent fuel and radioactive waste management.
5.11 Module 10: Emergency preparedness and response (regulatory aspects)
There are six subject groups associated with the regulatory aspects of emergency preparedness and
response:
a) Guidance and procedures for EPR: Use of IAEA safety standards and technical guidance;
operation of on-site emergency staff and the emergency staff of the regulatory body.
b) Communication/cooperation with other participants: With technical support organizations
and with local, governmental and national authorities; data and information exchange
mechanisms; harmonization of arrangements.
c) Emergency planning: Coordination with national emergency plans; coverage of various
stages of emergency; participation in reviewing; graded approach in planning.
d) Training and exercises: Systematic training programme; basic training for participants and
partners; full-scale and field exercises; frequency of exercises; expansion of scope of
exercises.
e) Complying with emergency preparedness and response requirements: Complying with GS-
R-2 in general; performing hazard assessment; establishing emergency classification system;
meeting minimum staffing requirements.
x) Other: Any other subject not included above.
There were 304 observations related to the regulatory aspects of emergency preparedness and
response. Table 11 shows that most observations in Module 10 were related to emergency planning.
Note that there was also a high number of Suggestions related to complying with technical
requirements.
Table 10 Number of observations by subject group for Module 10
Subject groups in Module 10 R S GP
a Guidance and procedures for participants 77 36 5
b Communication and cooperation with other participants 14 25 9
c Emergency planning 49 33 11
35
d Training and exercises 19 15 8
e Complying with EPR requirements 1 1 1
x Other 0 0 0
Σ Sum of Observations in the module 160 110 34
5.11.1 Highlights of observations
5.11.1.1 Guidance and procedures for participants
Roles and responsibilities for emergency preparedness and response should be clearly identified and
understood.
Authorized parties should be required to develop and update hazard assessments, implement a system
for classifying potential emergencies and for activation of an adequate level of emergency response.
The regulatory body should develop arrangements so that it can fulfil its emergency response roles.
Criteria should be established in advance for designating emergency workers in advance, including
making arrangements for their protection.
Operational criteria, including operational interventional levels, should be established so that effective
early protective actions and other response actions can be taken.
5.11.1.2 Communication and cooperation with other participants
Formal arrangements should be made for the involvement of stakeholders as part of the emergency
management system.
The emergency communication system should use diverse means and be available 24/7. This includes
the identification of a national contact point that is continuously available.
5.11.1.3 Emergency planning
Legislation and guidance should clearly define specific requirements on emergency preparedness and
response consistent with the IAEA Safety Standards. Legislation should assign the appropriate roles
and responsibilities on both the authorized party and the regulatory body for on-site emergency
response, provision of information to the public, for recovery work and for the transition to normal
activities.
The emergency classification system should be consistent with GSR Part 7.
Emergency preparedness and response activities should be covered by a comprehensive quality
assurance programme.
Medical facilities should be predesignated for initial treatment in case of radiological emergencies.
5.11.1.4 Training and exercises
Staff responsible for critical response functions should participate in regular training exercises and
drills, and these exercises and drills should be evaluated, both by the authorized party and the
regulatory body. Member States should consider conducting a large-scale emergency response
exercise.
36
Sufficient personnel should be trained to enable a long-term response to a nuclear or radiological
emergency.
5.11.1.5 Good Practices
• A database and process to systematically track all recommendations from emergency
exercises, including those of other organizations.
• The information to the public on emergency planning prior to an emergency is very
efficient in reaching all sectors of the population.
• Lessons learned from the Fukushima Daiichi NPP accident were promptly implemented
by updating emergency preparedness and response requirements for multi-unit accidents.
• Nuclear and radiological emergencies are well integrated on national and regional levels
and the regulatory body has a key role should a nuclear or radiological emergency occur.
5.12 Overall analysis of subject groups
Figure 19 shows the subject groups with the highest number of observations.
Regarding the subject group of “Specific topics for regulations and guides”, although there were a
large number of observations, these observations referred to many different Safety Requirement and
Safety Guide document. Within this broad range, there were a number of observations regarding the
need to introduce or update regulations and guides related to four topics:
• Transport of radioactive material;
• Environmental protection;
• Decommissioning of nuclear facilities;
• Spent fuel and radioactive waste management.
Regarding the topic of processes, procedures and guidance, these observations were broken out in the
various modules for management system, authorization, review and assessment, inspection,
enforcement and emergency preparedness and response. Taken together, however, they account for
289 Recommendations and 230 Suggestions, making the topic of procedures and guidance the most
frequent observation.
37
Figure 19 Subject groups with highest number of Recommendations and Suggestions
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Figure 20 shows the subject groups with the highest number of Good Practices. Note that in this case,
the subject group for specific topics for regulations and guides was excluded from the figure as no
pattern emerged from the observations.
Figure 20 Subject groups with highest number of Good Practices
Note that the following subject groups appear in both Figure 19 and Figure 20:
• Cooperation / interaction among organizations;
• National policies / strategies;
• Providing / using the legal framework;
• Developing an (integrated) management system;
• Authorization procedures and guidance;
• Developing the inspection programme;
• Inspection procedures and guidance;
• Development of regulations and guides;
• Emergency planning.
Again, if you combine the various Good Practices related to the topic of processes, procedures and
guidance, this number is also the largest by far, with IRRS reviewers identifying 56 Good Practices in
total.
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6 Follow-up missions
6.1 Closure rates for Recommendations and Suggestions
Not all Member States that have hosted an IRRS mission have hosted, or requested to host, a follow-
up mission. The main purpose of the follow-up mission is to review progress in implementing
improvements resulting from the initial IRRS mission Recommendations and Suggestions. The
follow-up mission peer reviewers will determine if each Recommendation and Suggestion can be
closed or remains open.
During the initial missions, the Recommendations and Suggestions are directed to either the Member
State government, or to the regulatory body, or to both. For the cases where follow-up missions have
taken place, during the initial missions, 69 Recommendations and Suggestions were directed to both
the government and the regulatory body, 224 Recommendations and Suggestions were directed to the
government alone and 960 Recommendations and Suggestions were directed to the regulatory body
alone.
Of the 293 Recommendations and Suggestions directed to Member State governments, 215 were
closed during the follow-up mission, while 79 remained open. Overall, the closure rate for Member
State governments is 73%. Of the 1018 Recommendations and Suggestions directed to regulatory
bodies, 854 were closed during the follow-up mission, while 164 remained open. Overall, the closure
rate for regulatory bodies is 84%. Given the large number of data points, there is a significant
difference in the two closure rates.
Upon closer examination, the difference is even more profound in some Member States. In three of the
initial missions, no Recommendations or Suggestions were directed to the Member State government.
In nine other cases, all of the Recommendations and Suggestions directed to the government were
closed, resulting in a closure rate of 100%. In addition to the cluster at 100%, ten missions had a
closure rate between 80 and 97%, seven missions had a closure rate between 44 and 79%, and there
was one outlier data point at 0%.
For regulatory bodies, the closure rate varied from 41% to 100%, with 18 regulatory bodies above
90%.
6.2 New observations resulting in Recommendations and Suggestions in follow-up missions
In addition to reviewing the progress made dealing with the Recommendations and Suggestions from
the initial mission, the follow-up mission may also include new review areas or may expand the
review of areas covered in the initial mission. In these cases, the follow-up mission will include new
observations, with the resulting Recommendations, Suggestions and Good Practices. Every follow-up
mission from 2006 to 2016 included new observations.
40
Figure 21 New references in follow-up missions
As Figure 21 shows, more than 40% of these new observations reference a requirement in GSR Part 1.
GSR Part 7, GSR Part 3 and Other Requirements documents each account for around 14% of the
references, while various Safety Guides are referenced in about 10% of the observations. GSR Part 2
is referenced in about 5% of the observations.
Figure 22 New references to GSR Part 1 in follow-up missions
Figure 22 shows that the GSR Part 1 requirements most frequently referenced in new
Recommendations or Suggestions in follow-up missions are:
• Requirement 18: Staffing and competence of the regulatory body;
• Requirement 7: Coordination with different authorities;
• Requirement 33: Review of regulations and guides.
0
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GSR Part 1 GSR Part 7 GSR Part 3 OtherRequirements
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Safety Guides GSR Part 2
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• Requirement 16: Organizational structure of the regulatory body and allocation of
resources;
• Requirement 20: Liaison with advisory bodies and support organizations.
Figure 23 Comparison between GSR Part 1 references (Recommendations & Suggestions) in initial and follow-up
missions
Referring to Figure 23, the relative frequency of references to GSR Part 1 Requirement 18, staffing
and competence of the regulatory body, is high in both initial and follow-up missions.
Figure 23 also shows that the following GSR Part 1 requirements, are least frequently referenced in
both initial and follow-up missions:
• Requirement 12: Interfaces of safety with nuclear security and with the State system for
accounting for, and control of, nuclear material;
• Requirement 21: Liaison between the regulatory body and authorized parties;
• Requirement 6: Compliance with regulations and responsibility for safety;
• Requirement 8: Emergency preparedness and response;
• Requirement 13: Provision of technical services;
• Requirement 5: Prime responsibility for safety.
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7 Analysis of IRRS missions related to the regulation of operating nuclear power plants (NPPs)
7.1 Introduction
Some IRRS missions reviewed the regulation of operating NPPs. In total, 540 Recommendations, 618
Suggestions and 296 Good Practices identified during IRRS missions relate to the regulation of
operating NPPs. It should be noted that many of these findings are not exclusively associated with the
regulation of operating NPPs. This chapter provides some analysis of these findings.
7.2 Reference to IAEA Safety Standards
The following analysis is based on those IRRS mission findings that are applicable to the regulation of
operating NPPs.
Figure 24 References to IAEA Safety Standards for observations related to operating NPPs
As Figure 24 shows, references to GSR Part 1 account for more than 55% of the findings related to the
regulation of operating NPPs, with Safety Guides, GSR Part 2, other Safety Requirements documents
and GSR Part 7 each accounting for around 10% of the references. GSR Part 3 accounted for less than
5% of the references.
For all of the Requirements documents, the references were split almost equally between
Recommendations and Suggestions, while for the Safety Guides, the majority of the references were
for Suggestions. In every case where an IAEA Safety Guide is used as a basis for a Recommendation,
there is also an IAEA Safety Requirements document as a basis.
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Figure 25 References to GSR Part 1 for observations related to operating NPPs
As Figure 25 shows, the most frequently referenced GSR Part 1 requirements are:
• Requirement 32: Regulations and guides
• Requirement 18: Staffing and competence of the regulatory body;
• Requirement 24: Demonstration of safety for the authorization of facilities and activities;
• Requirement 2: Establishment of a framework for safety;
• Requirement 4: Independence of the regulatory body.
Figure 25 also shows that the least frequently referenced GSR Part 1 requirements are:
• Requirement 9: System for protective actions to reduce existing or unregulated radiation
risks (not referenced);
• Requirement 12: Interfaces of safety with nuclear security and with the State system of
accounting for, and control of, nuclear material;
• Requirement 34: Promotion of regulations and guides to interested parties;
• Requirement 6: Compliance with regulations and responsibility for safety;
• Requirement 13: Provision of technical services;
• Requirement 21: Liaison between the regulatory body and authorized parties.
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Figure 26 Number of Good Practice references to GSR Part 1 for observations related to operating NPPs
Figure 26 shows that the most frequently referenced GSR Part 1 requirements for Good Practices
related to operating NPPs are:
• Requirement 18: Staffing and competence of the regulatory body;
• Requirement 36: Communication and consultation with interested parties;
• Requirement 24: Demonstration of safety for the authorization of facilities and activities;
• Requirement 25: Review and assessment of information relevant to safety;
• Requirement 27: Inspection of facilities and activities.
The following GSR Part 1 requirements were not referenced with respect to a Good Practice related to
operating NPPs:
• Requirement 6: Compliance with regulations and responsibility for safety;
• Requirement 9: System for protective actions to reduce existing or unregulated radiation
risks;
• Requirement 13: Provision of technical services;
• Requirement 30: Establishment of an enforcement policy;
• Requirement 31: Requiring of corrective action by authorized parties.
7.3 Reference by subject group
Table 11 shows the subject groups with the most number of observations related to operating NPPs.
Table 11 Subject Groups with the most number of observations related to operating NPPs
Subject group R S
9d Specific topics for regulations and guides 27 37
1b National policies, strategies 30 28
9c Basic safety requirements (regulations and guides) 35 22
1d Providing / using the legal framework for regulatory activities 42 13
7a Developing the inspection programme / system 21 26
10a Guidance / procedures for participants (emergency preparedness and response) 19 21
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4a Developing an integrated management system, general 28 11
9a Development of regulations and guides, general 19 17
5d Authorization procedures and guidance 14 17
1h Independence of the regulatory body 23 7
3a Staffing of the regulatory body 15 15
10c Emergency planning 16 13
3b Competence of the regulatory body 12 17
1a Cooperation / interaction among organizations, bodies 15 13
6b Review and assessment procedures and guidance 9 18
7c Inspection procedures and guidance 4 23
4b Details and documentation of the management system 12 14
46
8 Analysis of IRRS missions related to the regulation of radioactive sources
8.1 Introduction
Most, but not all, IRRS missions included a review of the regulatory control of radioactive sources. In
total, 1605 Recommendations, 932 Suggestions and 268 Good Practices identified during IRRS
missions relate to the regulatory control of radioactive sources. It should be noted that many of these
findings are not exclusively associated with the regulation of radioactive sources. This chapter
provides some analysis of these findings.
8.2 Reference to IAEA Safety Standards
Figure 27 References to IAEA Safety Standards
As Figure 27 shows, references to GSR Part 1 account for 50% of the findings related to the regulation
of radioactive sources, with GSR Part 3 accounting for almost 20% of the findings. GSR Part 7,
Safety Guides and GSR Part 2 each accounted for 7-9% of the findings.
For all of the Requirements documents, more references were for Recommendations than Suggestions,
while for the Safety Guides, the majority of the references were for Suggestions. In every case where
an IAEA Safety Guide is used as a basis for a Recommendation, there is also an IAEA Safety
Requirements document as a basis.
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Figure 28 References to GSR Part 1 for observations related to radioactive sources
As Figure 28 shows, the following GSR Part 1 requirements were most frequently referenced with
respect to radioactive sources:
• Requirement 2: Establishment of a framework for safety;
• Requirement 18: Staffing and competence of the regulatory body;
• Requirement 32: Regulations and guides;
• Requirement 24: Demonstration of safety for the authorization of facilities and activities;
• Requirement 4: Independence of the regulatory body.
The least frequently referenced GSR Part 1 requirements with respect to radioactive sources were:
• Requirement 21: Liaison between the regulatory body and authorized parties;
• Requirement 12: Interfaces of safety with nuclear security and with the State system of
accounting for, and control of, nuclear material;
• Requirement 8: Emergency preparedness and response;
• Requirement 6: Compliance with regulations and responsibility for safety;
• Requirement 13: Provision of technical services.
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Figure 29 Number of Good Practice references to GSR Part 1 for observations related to radioactive sources
As Figure 29 shows, the following GSR Part 1 requirements were most frequently referenced for
Good Practices associated with radioactive sources:
• Requirement 18: Staffing and competence of the regulatory body;
• Requirement 36: Communication and consultation with interested parties;
• Requirement 32: Regulations and guides;
• Requirement 14: International obligations and arrangements for international cooperation
and assistance;
• Requirement 33: Review of regulations and guides
• Requirement 27: Inspection of facilities and activities.
Figure 29 also shows that the following GSR Part 1 requirements were not referenced for a Good
Practice associated with radioactive sources:
• Requirement 12: Interfaces of safety with nuclear security and with the State system of
accounting for, and control of, nuclear material;
• Requirement 6: Compliance with regulations and responsibility for safety;
• Requirement 13: Provision of technical services;
• Requirement 30: Establishment of an enforcement policy.
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Figure 30 References to GSR Part 3 for observations related to radioactive sources
Figure 30 shows that the following GSR Part 3 requirements are referenced most frequently for
Recommendations and Suggestions associated with radioactive sources:
• Requirement 34: Responsibilities of the government specific to medical exposure;
• Requirement 2: Establishment of a legal and regulatory framework;
• Requirement 38: Optimization of protection and safety (for medical exposure);
• Requirement 3: Responsibilities of the regulatory body;
• Requirement 47: Responsibilities of the government specific to existing exposure
situations;
• Requirement 32: Monitoring and reporting (public exposure).
These same requirements, but in a different order, are the most frequently referenced GSR Part 3
requirements for all observations for all missions.
8.3 Reference by subject group Table 12 Subject Groups with the most number of observations related to radioactive sources
Subject group R S
9c Basic safety requirements (regulations and guides) 155 61
1b National policies, strategies 116 37
1d Providing / using the legal framework for regulatory activities 123 26
5d Authorization procedures and guidance 94 50
9d Specific topics for regulations and guides 105 31
1a Cooperation / interaction among organizations, bodies 57 46
10a Guidance / procedures for participants (emergency preparedness and response) 72 29
4a Developing an integrated management system, general 64 21
7a Developing the inspection programme / system 47 24
10c Emergency planning 44 27
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40
45
34 2 38 3 47 36 32 8 37 35 41 31 11 24 25 21 42 49 20 7 29 40 13 39 50 52 14 27 48 51 19 22 33 26 10 6 30 23 28 45 44 43 9 12 1 4 17 46 18 5 15 16
Nu
mb
er o
f re
fere
nce
s
Requirement number
Recommendations
Suggestions
50
9a Development of regulations and guides, general 44 26
1h Independence of the regulatory body 53 15
5c Authorization by licensee, graded approach 37 22
4e Knowledge management and information technology tools 19 32
7c Inspection procedures and guidance 19 31
9 Outlook The analysis of results of IRRS missions indicates that regulatory bodies are continuously working to
enhance the effectiveness of their regulatory systems. The missions have identified strengths (Good
Practices) and opportunities for improvement in the Member States visited. Mission reports contain
specific Recommendations and Suggestions on actions needed to address the intent of the relevant
IAEA safety requirements. Sharing of IRRS recommendations, suggestions and good practices
remains of utmost importance for enhancing nuclear and radiological safety worldwide.
The following provides an outlook of some regulatory issues that are still work underway in various
Member States. The level of completion of tasks associated with these issues varies from Member
State to Member State.
In some Member States, work is not yet completed to fully satisfy the fundamental principle of the
effective separation between functions of the regulatory body and those of any other body or
organization concerned with the promotion or utilization of nuclear energy. This separation is essential
to ensure that the regulatory body is free from any undue pressure from interested parties.
The development of an integrated management system in the regulatory body is a cornerstone of
regulatory effectiveness. There is also a need to integrate safety culture into the integrated
management process so that the management system supports leadership and safety culture. The
regulatory body needs to conduct systematic self-assessments of its own safety culture.
Processes, procedures and guidance are required for the regulatory body to conduct its functions in a
consistent way. These are essential elements of the integrated management system.
The sharing of knowledge and experience among regulatory bodies is of utmost importance.
International cooperation programmes are important mechanisms to exchange information and to
establish data basis to assist regulatory bodies and authorized parties.
Transparency and openness in the regulatory process is significantly improving as part of new
communication practices and consultations with the public and other interested parties.
The harmonization between national safety standards and the IAEA Safety Standards is notably
increasing.
Finally, the acceptance of the IRRS mission Recommendations and Suggestions, and the high closure
rates noted during most follow-up missions, indicate the Member States respect and value the benefits
of the IRRS peer review process.
51
Appendix 1: Mapping of GS-R-1 to GSR Part 1
GS-R-1 GSR Part 1 GS-R-1 GSR Part 1 GS-R-1 GSR Part 1
para. sub. Req. para. sub. para. sub. Req. para. sub. para. sub. Req. para. sub.
2.1 16 4.5 3.1 22 4.26 5.13 5) 27 4.51
2.2 1) 2 2.5 3.2 1) 32 - 6)
2) 4 2.7 2) 26 4.41 5.13 end 27 4.49
" 17 4.6 3) 24 … 5.14 29 4.50
3) 4) 27 - 5.15 28 -
4) 4 2.8 5) 31 … 5.16 28 -
5) 4 2.9 6) 31 4.54 … 5.17 27 4.51
6) 10 3.3 1) 5.18 30 -
7) 6 2.17 2) 24 4.37 " 31 4.54,4.55
8) 8 … 3) 24 4.34 5.19 31 4.54,4.55
9) 2 2.5 13) 4) 5.20 31 4.59
10) 5) 24 4.39 5.21 31 4.54,4.55
11) 13 2.41 6) 36 4.66 5.22 31 4.56
2.3 5 - 7) 15 3.3 … 5.23 31 4.58
2.4 2 2.5 8) 35 … 5.24
1) 2 2.5 1) 9) 33 - 5.25 32 4.61
2) 2 2.5 2) 10) 25 4.46 5.26 32 4.62
3) 2 2.5 3) 11) 4 2.8 5.27
4) 2 2.5 7) 12) 24 4.30 5.28 33 4.61
5) 3,4 2.8 13) 6.1
6) 2 2.5 17) 3.4 7 2.18 6.2 8
7) 2 2.5 11) 3.5 6.3 8 2.22
8) 2 2.5 6) 4.1 16 4.5 6.4
9) 20 4.18 4.2 2 2.6 6.5 8 2.23
10) 1 2.3 e) " 4 2.12 6.6 8 2.24
" 11 2.38 " 7 2.18 6.7 10 2.28,2.29
11) 4.3 20 4.19,4.20 6.8
12) 4.4 20 4.22 6.9 10 …
13) 2 2.5 16) 4.5 19 … 6.10 6 2.16
14) 2 2.5 18) 4.6 18 4.11 … " 10 2.28
15) 1 2.3 b) 4.7 18 4.13 6.11 35 4.64
16) 36 4.66 4.8 20 4.22 6.12 10 2.31
17) 4.9 20 4.18 6.13 10 2.32
2.5 4 2.12 4.10 21 4.24 6.14 9 2.25
2.6 1) 4.11 14 3.2 6.15 9 2.26
2) 32 5.1 - 4.2 6.16 9 2.26
3) 4 2.13 5.2 23 - 6.17
4) 4 2.13 5.3 24 4.33 A.1 1) 25 4.45 1)
5) 23 - 5.4 24 4.34 2) 25 4.45 3)
6) 24 4.38 5.5 24 4.31 3) 25 4.45 4)
" 26 4.46 5.6 24 4.37 4) 25 4.45 7)
7) 27 - 5.7 26 4.40 5)
" 2 2.5 11) 5.8 22 4.26 6) 25 4.45 15)
8) 2 2.5 10) 5.9 25 4.41, 4.42 7) 25 4.45 14)
" 36 4.66 a) 5.10 26 4.40 " 25 4.45 19)
9) 36 4.66 b) 5.11 25 4.44 A.2
10) 36 4.66 c) 5.12 27 4.52 A.3
11) 36 4.66 d) 5.13 1) 27 A.4
12) 36 4.66 e) 2) A.5
13) 21 4.23 3) A.6
" 7 4) A.7
14) A.8