Japanese approach to nuclear power safety

Journal Article · · Nucl. Saf.; (United States)

OSTI ID:6454607

Matsuda, Y; Suehiro, K; Taniguchi, S

The basic premise in the Japanese philosophy pertaining to nuclear power-plant safety is that the primary responsibility for safety resides with the electric utility companies that install these plants. Operating from this basis, the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI) then examines both the basic and the detailed designs of nuclear power plants and conducts inspections at each phase of construction. During the operations phase, MITI performs several safety functions, including (1) conducting thorough investigations of accidents and situations that might lead to some incident hazardous to operation, (2) directing electric utility companies to take effective countermeasures to prevent recurrence of troubles, (3) executing safety regulations based on preventive maintenance, and (4) strictly enforcing changes and modifications resulting from the annual inspections that last from 3 to 4 months. This article traces the historical development of nuclear power in Japan, describes safety regulation systems and safety concepts and applications, and touches on future projections for safety assurance.

• Research Organization: Ministry of International Trade and Industry, Tokyo, Japan
• OSTI ID: 6454607
• Journal Information: Nucl. Saf.; (United States), Journal Name: Nucl. Saf.; (United States) Vol. 25:4; ISSN NUSAA
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

22 GENERAL STUDIES OF NUCLEAR REACTORS
220900* -- Nuclear Reactor Technology-- Reactor Safety
ACCIDENTS
ASIA
CONSTRUCTION
DESIGN
INSPECTION
JAPAN
MANAGEMENT
NUCLEAR FACILITIES
NUCLEAR POWER PLANTS
OPERATION
POWER PLANTS
PROGRAM MANAGEMENT
REACTOR ACCIDENTS
REACTOR OPERATION
REACTOR SAFETY
REGULATIONS
SAFETY
THERMAL POWER PLANTS