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Systematic Assessment of Regulatory Competence Needs (SARCoN)

The IAEA-developed Systematic Assessment of Regulatory Competence Needs (SARCoN) methodology and software tool support Member States’ work to ensure regulatory competence in line with the IAEA safety standards.

The SARCoN methodology and tool support the competence management process in regulatory bodies. It assists in evaluation and self-assessment processes through a step-by-step approach that enables users to develop competence profiles and conduct competence gap analyses. Regulatory bodies can use the methodology and tool to ensure that their current and future competence needs are met.

The methodology is described in two IAEA Technical Documents, one that targets Regulatory Bodies of Nuclear Installations (IAEA TECDOC No. 1757) and one that targets Regulatory Bodies of Radiation Facilities and Activities (IAEA TECDOC No. 1860). The IAEA publication Managing Regulatory Body Competence (Safety Reports Series No. 79) provides generic guidance on managing the competence of regulatory bodies.

SARCoN is suitable for all regulatory bodies, including those in countries that are introducing or planning to introduce the use of nuclear power. It is flexible, enabling users to adapt it to their circumstances and needs, and it can be applied at all organizational levels. The IAEA offers Member States seminars on the use and adaptation of SARCoN.

The methodology and tool can support Parties to the Convention on Nuclear Safety and countries that have committed to the Code of Conduct on the Safety and Security of Radioactive Sources in implementing their obligations related to regulatory bodies. It can also assist in preparations for the IAEA’s Integrated Regulatory Review Service.

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