From December 7-11, AdSTM, Inc. and the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (US NRC) conducted a joint International Regulatory Development Partnership (IRDP) workshop on research and test reactor regulations at the campus of Texas A&M University. The audience was composed of reactor operators and nuclear regulators from member countries of the Arab Atomic Energy Agency. Participants included representatives from the Egyptian Atomic Energy Authority, Iraq Ministry of Science and Technology, Jordan Atomic Energy Commission, Kuwait Ministry of Health, Lebanese Atomic Energy Commission, Libyan Nuclear Research Center, Mauritania National Authority on Radiation Safety and Nuclear Security, Morocco National Center for Energy Science and Nuclear Technologies, and Tunisian National Center for Nuclear Science and Technology.
Presented by Mr. John Nguyen of the US NRC, and Mr. Rich Holm and Dr. Steve Reese of AdSTM, Inc.; the workshop focused on the current regulatory approach of research and test reactors in the United States including inspection programs, initial licensing, license renewal, license amendments, emergency planning, security, safeguards, facility modifications, and operator licensing. Audience participation was very high, particularly during exercises aimed at exploring current issues in inspection procedures, violations, and program management. The workshop concluded with tours of both accelerator and research reactor facilities at Texas A&M University. Participates took home an increased understanding of the breadth and depth of regulation pertaining to this unique reactor community.