Nuclear Regulation: NRC's Restart Actions Appear Reasonable--But Criteria Needed
RCED-89-95
Published: May 04, 1989. Publicly Released: Jun 06, 1989.
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Highlights
In response to a congressional request, GAO assessed the criteria that the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) uses to allow nuclear powerplants to restart operations after a shutdown to correct safety or management problems, focusing on: (1) the Peach Bottom, Pennsylvania, plant's operating history; (2) NRC rationale for allowing the plant to continue operations despite its history of problems; (3) the extent to which NRC would consider outstanding maintenance items before allowing the plant to restart; and (4) the manner in which NRC addressed public comments.
Recommendations
Recommendations for Executive Action
| Agency Affected Sort descending | Recommendation | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Nuclear Regulatory Commission | To ensure that each plant's readiness to restart is assessed, the Chairman, NRC, should develop criteria that include, at a minimum a review and approval of the utility's corrective action plan, inspections to ensure the actions are taken, independent review of NRC actions, and public participation. |
Closed – Implemented
On March 23, 1990, NRC established restart guidelines that include all of GAO recommended criteria.
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Topics
Electric utilitiesEvaluation criteriaFines (penalties)Independent regulatory commissionsInspectionNuclear powerplant safetyNuclear powerplantsNuclear power plantsEnergy and water developmentEconomic development