What Does
Nuclear Registry Commission Mean?
The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) is an independent agency created by Congress in 1974. Its mandate is to regulate the beneficial and safe use of radioactive material for civilian purposes, such as commercial nuclear power plants, nuclear medicine, and research.
Safeopedia Explains Nuclear Registry Commission
Nuclear materials can be used for a variety of beneficial purposes, as well as military use. However, these materials need to be strictly regulated to prevent them from being used for nefarious purposes, such as acts of terrorism.
To prevent this, Congress created the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to oversee and enforce laws and standards governing nuclear materials.
The Organization and Function of the NRC
The NRC has about 3,000 employees over five locations in the US and has an annual budget of $1 billion.
It is responsible for formulating policies and regulations that govern nuclear reactor and materials safety, issuing orders to licensees, and is involved in the adjudication of legal matters.
The agency is headed by a five-member commission appointed by the president and confirmed by the Senate for a term of five years. The NRC chair is appointed by the president and is the organization’s principal executive officer and official spokesperson. The chair is responsible for conducting functions of the agency, such as its administration, organization, budget, and planning. They also have the final authority in the event of an emergency involving an NRC license.
The Executive Director for Operations (EDO) is responsible for carrying out the NRC’s policies and decisions. The EDO also directs the activities of the program offices, which ensures the safe commercial use of nuclear materials. There are four regional offices, which perform inspections, enforce regulations, and conduct emergency response programs.
Objectives of the NRC
The NRC has three main stated objectives:
- Ensuring that radioactive materials are used in a safe and secure manner, primarily by licensing and regulating radioactive materials and nuclear facilities
- Fostering a healthy organization through an engaged and adaptable work culture
- Inspiring confidence in NRC stakeholders through transparency, following a data-driven decision-making process, and making all information accessible to stakeholders
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