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Experts See Strengthening Of Global Safety Regime

Delegates at the IAEA Scientific Forum in Vienna, Austria. (Photo credit: D. Calma/IAEA)

Some of the world´s leading experts on nuclear safety gathered in Vienna for the closing session of IAEA´s Scientific Forum 28 September 2005.

During the afternoon session, panellists Mr. Richard Taylor from the United Kingdom, Mr. Oyvin Tuntland of Norway, Mr. Ruben Navarro from Argentina; session chair Mr. Richard Meserve from the United States; and keynote speakers Mr. Jacques-Emmanuel Saulnier from France, James Ellis of the United States, and Chang-Sun Kang from Korea, discussed the global safety regime.

Noting the track record of the industry with accidents such as Chernobyl, Mr. Meserve, head of IAEA´s International Nuclear Safety Group (INSAG), urged a strengthening of global nuclear safety standards to boost confidence in nuclear power.

"Safety performance worldwide has improved... (It) must be embedded in the management and cultural practices of both operators and regulators, and is a day-in and day-out obligation to which constant attention must be provided," he said.

The experts examined national and international responsibilities in ensuring industry and public safety. They recommended a greater emphasis on information-sharing, harmonization of national safety standards, encouragement of organisational safety culture, strengthening the enforcement of obligations required by the Convention on Nuclear Safety, and establishment of a multinational design review.

This common thread of global cooperation was also reflected in the IAEA Director General´s statement to the Agency´s 49th General Conference. "While nuclear safety is a national responsibility, the cross-border implications of nuclear risks make clear that nuclear safety... is an international concern," pointed out Dr. Mohamed ElBaradei.

"None of these (changes) are revolutionary," said Mr. Meserve, "...but I believe they will serve to ensure that nuclear technology can continue to be harnessed for the benefit for all human kind."

Last update: 27 Jul 2017

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