Risk-Informed and Performance-Based Oversight of Radiological Emergency Response Programs(NUREG/CR-7195)

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Publication Information

Manuscript Completed: August 2014
Date Published: May 2015

Prepared by:
Randolph Sullivan, Thomas Park*, Abbey Jorstad*, Douglas Hoell*

*Obsidian Analysis, Inc.
1776 Eye Street NW, 4th Floor
Washington, DC 20006

R. Sullivan, NRC Project Manager

NRC Job Code R3151

Office of Nuclear Security and Incident Response
U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission
Washington DC 20555-0001

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Abstract

This report provides a concept for performance-based oversight of offsite radiological emergency response preparedness in jurisdictions surrounding commercial nuclear power plants. That is, it provides the framework for development of an alternative oversight regimen in which regulators consider inputs and enablers of performance (such as plans and training) only when jurisdictions cannot demonstrate adequate performance. The report proposes an initial set of objective performance indicators for demonstration in drills and exercises. It further proposes differential levels of oversight intervention based on the degree to which the jurisdictions meet or fail to meet performance targets. The report considers whether this performance-based oversight regimen would enable better integration of offsite radiological emergency response preparedness with all-hazards preparedness. Finally, the report briefly considers aspects of implementing the concept, such as potentially required regulatory changes. While the ingestion pathway is important to public health and safety, it is not considered for regulation in the scope of this report. The report concludes that a performance-based oversight system is feasible and could enhance all-hazards integration along with reasonable assurance. However, implementation of a performance-based oversight regimen likely would require more resources than are currently applied in order to ensure a high level of emergency preparedness.