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Fact Sheet on Safety and Security Improvements at Nuclear Plants
Post 9-11 ActionsThe Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) - responsible for protecting public health and the environment from potential hazards involved in using nuclear materials - took prompt action to enhance safety and security, and has comprehensively re-evaluated security at nuclear power plants and other facilities it regulates. Since September 11, 2001, NRC has strengthened security at nuclear facilities by working with national experts using state-of-the-art structural and fire analyses to realistically predict the consequences of terrorist acts. These studies confirm that, given robust plant designs and the additional enhancements to safety, security, and emergency preparedness and response, it is unlikely that significant radiological consequences would result from a wide range of terrorist attacks, including one from a large commercial aircraft. Actions taken by Federal aviation safety and security agencies - Federal Air Marshals, reinforced cockpit doors, airport passenger and baggage screening, improved ability to detect deviation from planned flight paths and greater military aircraft intercept capability - have reduced the likelihood that large commercial aircraft could be used to attack critical infrastructure, including a nuclear facility. Other actions, such as improved communication between military surveillance authorities, NRC, and its licensees, would allow plant operators to prepare the plant for safe shutdown should it be necessary. These actions, coupled with those taken by the NRC and the nuclear industry, are an integral part of the government’s overall strategy for protecting the nation’s critical infrastructure. NRC has strengthened requirements at nuclear power plants and enhanced coordination with Federal, State and local organizations since 9-11NRC major actions include:
Safety and security studies show that a radiological release affecting public health and safety is unlikely from a terrorist attack, including large commercial aircraft
Time is available to protect the public in unlikely event of a radiation release
Other Security Information can be found at: February 2005 |
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