skip navigation links 
 
 Search Options 
Index | Site Map | FAQ | Facility Info | Reading Rm | New | Help | Glossary | Contact Us blue spacer  
secondary page banner Return to NRC Home Page
Advisory Activities
Advisory Committee on Reactor Safeguards
Advisory Committee on Nuclear Waste and Materials
Advisory Committee on the Medical Uses of Isotopes

Advisory Committee on Reactor Safeguards

The Advisory Committee on Reactor Safeguards (ACRS) is statutorily mandated by the Atomic Energy Act of 1954, as amended. The Committee has three primary purposes:

  • to review and report on safety studies and reactor facility license and license renewal applications;
  • to advise the Commission on the hazards of proposed and existing reactor facilities and the adequacy of proposed reactor safety standards; and
  • to initiate reviews of specific generic matters or nuclear facility safety-related items.

At the request of the Commission, the ACRS also reviews the NRC's Research Activities and provides an annual report (NUREG-1635) to the Commission. Upon request from the Department of Energy, the ACRS reviews and provides reports on U.S. Naval reactor designs under a reimbursable agreement. Upon request, and with the Commission's consent, the ACRS is required to provide advice to the Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board in accordance with Public Law 100-456.

The ACRS is independent of the NRC staff and reports directly to the Commission, which appoints its members. The operational practices of the ACRS are governed by the provisions of the Federal Advisory Committee Act (FACA) [Exit NRC]. Advisory committees are structured to provide a forum where experts representing many technical perspectives can provide independent advice that is factored into the Commission’s decisionmaking process. Most Committee meetings are open to the public and any member of the public may request an opportunity to make an oral statement during the committee meeting. Those who wish to do so should contact the ACRS contact indicated on the Public Meeting Schedule page.

The ACRS Action Plan (NUREG/BR-0286) gives the priority issues the committee will consider in the near future.

See the following for more information:

Related Documents



Privacy Policy | Site Disclaimer
Wednesday, February 21, 2007