Alert

Due to a lapse in appropriations, the NRC has ceased normal operations. However, excepted and exempted activities necessary to maintain critical health and safety functions—as well as essential progress on designated critical activities, including those specified in Executive Order 14300—will continue, consistent with the OMB-Approved NRC Lapse Plan.

Design-basis threat (DBT)

A description of the type, composition, and capabilities of an adversary, against which a security system is designed to protect. The NRC uses the DBT as a basis for designing safeguards systems to protect against acts of radiological sabotage and to prevent the theft of special nuclear material. Certain nuclear facility licensees are required to defend against the DBT.

Page Last Reviewed/Updated Wednesday, February 15, 2023