National Nuclear Regulator 3.43

The NNR is South Africa’s “Nuclear Safety “Watchdog”.
The National Nuclear Regulator (NNR) is a public entity which is established and governed in terms of Section 3 of the National Nuclear Regulator Act, (Act No 47 of 1999) to provide for the protection of persons, property and the environment against nuclear damage.

What is the NNR’s role?

The NNR’s role is to oversee the safe and secure use and handling of nuclear and radioactive materials in South Africa. To achieve this, the NNR grants nuclear authorisations and conducts inspections to verify compliance to the conditions of authorisation.

Who does the NNR regulate?

The NNR regulates safety over commercial nuclear power stations, nuclear research facilities, radioactive waste management facilities, mineral processing facilities, mines and scrap metal dealers. Additionally the NNR regulates the safe transport of radioactive material and vessels propelled by nuclear power or carrying radioactive materials on board.

Why do we need a nuclear safety regulator?

Radiation has benefits and risks. Some of the benefits from the safe use of radiation include medical diagnosis and treatment, electricity generation, industrial radiography, sterilisation of medical equipment, food irradiation and scientific research.

People who work in areas with radioactive materials, such as uranium mines, nuclear power stations, or radiology units at hospitals, are at risk of being exposed to harmful effects of ionising radiation. These workers have a greater need for protection. The nuclear safety regulator is therefore needed to ensure that these people and the environment are adequately protected against the risks associated with harmful effects of radiation.

How does the NNR fulfil its responsibility for regulating nuclear safety?

The NNR fulfils its responsibilities through the following licensing and regulatory activities;
• Granting licences for the siting, design, construction, operating, and decontamination and decommissioning of commercial nuclear power plants, research reactors and radioactive waste management sites.
• Authorises mines, minerals processing facilities and small users of radioactive material.
• Authorises the safe transport of radioactive materials and grants licences for vessels powered by nuclear power or carrying radioactive material on board.
• Conducts safety reviews and assessments.
• Inspects licensed and authorised facilities and activities.
• Investigates nuclear incidents and allegations concerning any matter regulated by the NNR.
• Enforces NNR regulations and conditions of NNR licences and may impose penalties for violations.
• Conducts public hearings for nuclear installations licence applications and oversees the functioning of licensees public safety information forums.
• Implements South Africa’s international legal commitments under treaties and conventions in nuclear safety.