Spain has taken a significant step in improving its regulatory framework for nuclear and radiological safety. A follow-up mission conducted by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) concluded that the country had successfully implemented recommendations from a previous review in 2018. This mission, known as the Integrated Regulatory Review Service (IRRS), was carried out by four regulatory experts from France, Germany, Switzerland, and the United States, along with IAEA staff members.
Progress in Nuclear Safety Management
The evaluation found that 12 recommendations and 20 suggestions made in 2018 have been properly addressed by Spain. Among the notable advancements, the mission highlighted the development of a human resource management plan that includes a systematic approach to staff training, as well as the strengthening of the safety culture within the Nuclear Safety Council (CSN).
Another key achievement is the creation of a national radon action plan, aimed at mitigating risks from this naturally occurring radioactive gas. Additionally, the cooperation between the CSN and Spain’s autonomous communities has been enhanced. Scott Morris, Regional Administrator of the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission and team leader of the mission, emphasized Spain’s commitment to continuously improving its regulatory framework.
Digitalization and Emergency Management
Two best practices stood out during the review: the creation of a digital platform providing real-time radiation dose data to users and a centralized dosimetry system designed for tracking radiation exposure during emergencies. These innovations aim to optimize radiation monitoring and the protection of workers in radiological environments.
CSN President Juan Carlos Lentijo stated that this international evaluation reinforces Spain’s commitment to nuclear safety. He highlighted that this process is part of a continuous improvement approach to ensure high protection standards.
Ongoing Monitoring of Nuclear Regulations
Spain currently operates seven nuclear reactors, which generate approximately 20% of the country’s electricity. The country also has three permanently shut-down nuclear plants and multiple interim storage facilities for spent nuclear fuel. Additionally, Spain manages a radioactive waste disposal facility for low- and intermediate-level waste.
Spain hosted its first IRRS mission in 2008, followed by a follow-up mission in 2011 and a combined IRRS-ARTEMIS mission in 2018, which included an evaluation of radioactive waste management and decommissioning. A new ARTEMIS mission is scheduled for later this year to continue assessing and improving regulatory infrastructure.
The final report of the IRRS mission, which took place over eight days starting on January 26, will be submitted to the Spanish government within approximately three months.
