The Japanese Government has provided the IAEA with a report that summarizes the events and highlights the progress related to recovery operations at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station. The IAEA provided its assessments, which are contained in full at the end of the report.
This assessment has been performed on aspects presented in the December 2021 report 'Events and highlights on the progress related to recovery operations at Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station'. It does not include recent developments that will be taken into consideration in a next report.
Interim measures by Japan’s Government and status of TEPCO's review on the handling of ALPS treated water
The IAEA understands that these two documents provide additional information regarding the proposed implementation of the release of ALPS treated water into the sea, with the involvement of local decision makers and fishermen, and measures to prevent reputational damage by having TEPCO set up a specialized department for the release of ALPS treated water, cooperate closely with the IAEA, and actively disseminate information in Japan and abroad.
Arrival in Japan of the equipment for trial retrieval of fuel debris from Unit 2
The IAEA notes the equipment for fuel debris retrieval has been delivered to Japan. This will allow the work towards fuel debris retrieval from Unit 2 to progress. The IAEA also notes that this work is expected to be delayed by about a year due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Damaged exhaust filters in the HIC and inside the ALPS
The IAEA notes that TEPCO continues to inspect exhaust filters to determine the cause of the damage and implement countermeasures, as/if needed. The IAEA also notes that the damage of the filters did not affect the workers or the environment.
Sea area monitoring results
Based on the information provided by Japan, the IAEA acknowledges that no significant changes were observed in the monitoring results for seawater, sediment and marine biota, including fishery products, during the period covered by this report. The levels measured by Japan in the marine environment are low and relatively stable. For the purpose of public reassurance, the IAEA encourages the continuation of sea area monitoring. Furthermore, the IAEA considers that the ongoing data quality assurance programme that is in place is key for ensuring the accuracy and the quality of the results of the monitoring programme. It also enhances transparency and contributes to building stakeholders’ confidence.
Food products
Based on the information provided by Japan, the situation regarding the safety of the food supply, fishery and agricultural production continues to remain stable. Food restrictions continue to be revised and updated as necessary in line with food monitoring results. Many thousands of food samples were collected over the reporting period and this indicates continued vigilance of the authorities in Japan and their commitment to protecting consumers and trade. Monitoring, appropriate regulatory action and public communication are helping to maintain confidence in the safety of the food supply.
Based on the information that has been made available, the Joint FAO/IAEA Centre understands that measures to monitor and respond to issues regarding radionuclide contamination of food are appropriate, and that the food supply chain is controlled effectively by the relevant authorities and that the public food supply is safe.