Dynamics of international nuclear safety: Post-Fukushima developments in regulatory oversight and filtered vent technology in six nuclear countries

Abstract

Nuclear safety has undergone intense scrutiny since the Fukushima Daiichi accident in 2011. Areas of particular consideration include the strength of regulatory entities and the use of filtered containment venting systems (FCVS). This assessment reviews the status of nuclear safety regulators with an emphasis on independence. The chapter also examines rules on FCVS and its utilization. Developments specific to China, France, India, Russia, South Korea, and the United States are the central focus. The chapter finds varying levels of autonomy exist among the nuclear safety regulatory entities. The assessment also shows that four of the six countries have not adopted filtering technology, despite its use for decades and related safety gains. Aspects for continued monitoring and study are discussed.