The Canadian Approach to Nuclear Codes and Standards

Abstract

Together with the Canadian Standards Association (CSA), industry stakeholders, governments, and the public have developed a suite of standards for CANDU nuclear power plants that generate electricity in Canada and abroad. In this paper, we will describe: CSA's role in national and international nuclear standards development; the key issues and priority projects that the nuclear standards program has addressed; the new CSA nuclear committees and projects being established, particularly those related to waste management and decommissioning; the hierarchy of nuclear regulations, nuclear, and other standards in Canada, and how they are applied by AECL; the standards management activities; and the future trends and challenges for CSA and the nuclear community. CSA is an accredited Standards Development Organization (SDO) and part of the international standards system. CSA's Nuclear Strategic Steering Committee (NSSC) provides leadership, direction, and support for a standards committee hierarchy comprised of members from a balanced matrix of interests. The NSSC strategically focuses on industry challenges; a new nuclear regulatory system, deregulated energy markets, and industry restructuring. As the first phase of priority projects is nearing completion, the next phase of priorities is being identified. These priorities address radioactive waste management, environmental radiation management, decommissioning, structural, and seismic issues. As the CSA committees get established in the coming year, members and input will be solicited for the technical committees, subcommittees, and task forces for the following related subjects: 1. Radioactive Waste Management: a) Dry Storage of Irradiated Fuel; b) Short-Term Radioactive Waste Management; c) Long-Term Storage and Disposal of Radioactive Waste; 2. Decommissioning. Nuclear Power is highly regulated, and public scrutiny has focused Codes and Standards on public and worker safety. Licensing and regulation serves to control design and operation of Nuclear Power Systems, while ensuring effective exploitation of this vital energy source. The regulatory system includes federal requirements, provincial inspections, and a suite of Nuclear standards. These standards provide tools for technical guidance, management processes, operation, assessment, and regulation. Future CSA plans will address the regulatory environment, standards harmonization, and enhanced public and international input, in a competitive industry. Stakeholders and governments; however, need to support SDO viability by addressing nuclear liability protection, member availability, and funding support. Opportunities for synergies with other nuclear related industries and international activities should be considered.