Symposium discusses NRA safety standards

February 18, 2013

Nuclear scientists discuss new safety rules

http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20130218_01.html

Japanese nuclear scientists have held a symposium to discuss improved nuclear safety standards that Japan's Nuclear Regulation Authority will set by July.

This is in response to the nuclear disaster at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant in March 2011.

The NRA members created an outline of the safety standards last month and now are in the process of hearing from the people. The symposium was hosted on Sunday in Tokyo by the Atomic Energy Society of Japan.

NRA committee member Toyoshi Fuketa explained the outline that will oblige every power company to set appropriate measures and standards for dealing with a severe accident. In the past, each utility set its own benchmarks.

One expert pointed out that the NRA should not perpetuate the myth that accidents can be prevented by merely meeting standards.

Another said safety is never guaranteed and added that the NRA should have a goal for achieving safety, while being clear about any remaining risks.

Fuketa said the standards will be basic safety measures