Nuclear security is a strategic priority for Romania, given the significant role that the nuclear industry plays in ensuring the energy independence of the country and in achieving the sustainability objectives.Nuclear security in Romania is based on multiple levels of protection, which include technical, physical, and administrative measures.Emphasis is placed on the prevention of accidents by strict design and strict protocols, and the staff is intensively trained to manage any type of emergency.Also, regular audits and inspections are carried out to ensure compliance with national and international standards.
Romania is in a privileged position in terms of nuclear energy, occupying the first place worldwide in the coefficient of use of the power installed from the commissioning of units 1 and 2 from Cernavoda CNE.This achievement emphasizes not only the efficiency, but also the remarkable safety of the Romanian nuclear power plants, thus strengthening the importance of continuous investments in this vital field.
Excellence in nuclear security
The Cernavoda nuclear power plant has been internationally evaluated and obtained the excellence rating in nuclear security.This result reflects the firm commitment of SNN (Nuclearelectrica National Society) to maintain a high level of security in all phases of achievement and exploitation of nuclear objectives and installations.SNN respects a nuclear security policy approved by CNCAN (National Commission for Nuclear Activation Control), ensuring guarantees of good execution for all important activities on nuclear security.
Nuclear security policy
The nuclear security policy implemented by SNN guarantees that security has maximum priority in all phases of commissioning and operating nuclear installations.This includes assurance that:
- The power of the reactor is under control.
- Fuel is continuously cooled.
- Radioactivity is effectively retained.
Post-Fukushima stress tests
Following the accident in Fukushima, the European Commission and the group of European regulators of the nuclear society have implemented stress tests to evaluate the nuclear security of the power plants.These tests have included extensive risk assessments, including earthquakes, floods and total loss of electricity and water supply.The evaluations have shown that unit 1 and unit 2 at Cernavoda CNE meet the established security requirements and can cope with these severe events.
The public institutions involved in ensuring nuclear security in Romania:
National Commission for Nuclear Activation Control (CNCAN)
In accordance with the provisions of Law 111/1996 on safe conduct, regulation, authorization and control of nuclear activities, republished in June 2006, amended and supplemented by Law 63/2018, for The operation of a nuclear installation is required authorization issued by the National Commission for the Control of Nuclear Activities (CNCAN).
The institution has the role of ensuring that all nuclear activities in the country are carried out in maximum safety conditions, protecting the health of the population and the average.CNCAN is thus responsible for the authorization, supervision and control of all nuclear installations, radioactive materials and their transport.It establishes strict norms, monitors compliance and intervenes in case of nuclear irregularities or incidents.
State inspection for control of boilers, pressure containers and lifting installations (ISCIR)
Another important role in the authorization process is played by ISCIR, the companies involved in the supply chain in the nuclear industry in Romania having the obligation to comply with the requirements of ISCIR rules applicable to nuclear installations and to obtain, in this sense, the necessary authorizations.
Nuclear Agency and for Radioactive Waste (AndR)
In turn, Andr has a crucial role in managing used fuel and radioactive waste.The institution ensures that all radioactive materials are treated and stored safely, according to international standards.Andr also collaborates with other national and international institutions to improve nuclear waste management technologies and methods.
Ministry of Energy
The Ministry of Energy supervises the entire energy industry in Romania, including the nuclear sector.It coordinates the government policies related to energy and ensures their alignment with the national and European objectives regarding energy and climatic changes.
General Inspectorate for Emergency Situations (IGSU)
In the case of a nuclear incident, IGSU is the institution responsible for coordinating the emergency response.It manages intervention and evacuation plans, and leads periodic exercises to ensure that response equipment and procedures are always prepared to act efficiently.
International organizations
Romania is a member of the International Agency for Atomic Energy (AIEA) and other international forums promoting peaceful and safe use of nuclear technology.By participating in these organizations, Romania benefits from exchange of expertise, technical support and access to the best global practices in the field of nuclear security.