GAO's Response to DOE's Comments on EMD-81-108, "Better Oversight Needed at DOE's Nuclear Facilities"

GAO responded to Department of Energy (DOE) criticisms of report EMD-81-108 in which GAO recommended major changes in the safety and health oversight program at DOE contractor-operated facilities. GAO suggested that Congress consider legislation to require the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) to review the safety of a number of facilities, including several defense-related activities. DOE criticized the report on the grounds that: (1) GAO misunderstood the DOE approach to safety and health; (2) NRC lacks technical expertise in technology associated with DOE production nuclear reactors and operations; (3) the high cost of a review and evaluation by NRC would not provide a commensurate benefit; and (4) NRC oversight of this facet of DOE defense responsibilities could seriously interfere with national security.