Human Factors Issues Related to SMR Operation

Abstract

Small Modular Reactor (SMR) operation, based on proposed designs, will differ from traditional nuclear power plants in fundamental ways. Therefore, a thorough review of human factors issues for SMR operation is necessary, as the design paradigms are sufficiently different from traditional reactors. In this paper, two paradigm shifts for SMR operation are explored – the first involving operating teams to monitor several reactors instead of one, and the second involving remote operation (where the control room is in a different geographical area than the physical reactor). Human factors considerations in this area will also be informed by examination of high hazard industries, and research gaps that warrant further consideration will be identified. Considerations of these human factors issues can help to inform regulatory frameworks and assist in understanding the human factors challenges in designing and operating SMRs within these new paradigms.