Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB):
Establishment & Legal Basis
- Established: 15 November 1983.
- Under: Atomic Energy Act, 1962.
- Constituted by the Government of India to carry out regulatory and safety functions in the nuclear energy sector.
- Administrative Control: Operates under the aegis of the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), but functions independently in regulatory matters.
Mandate and Functions
- Safety Oversight: Regulates the use of ionising radiation and nuclear energy for civilian applications.
- Licensing Authority: Grants licenses for siting, construction, operation, and decommissioning of nuclear and radiation facilities in India.
- Enforcement Power: Has authority to enforce compliance with safety standards and shut down facilities in case of violations.
Scope of Regulatory Activities
- Nuclear Power Plants (NPPs): Safety regulation of design, construction, commissioning, and operation.
- Radiation Facilities: Medical, industrial, and research usage of radiation sources (like X-ray units, cobalt therapy units).
- Radiation Waste Management: Ensures safe disposal and containment of radioactive waste.
- Transportation of Radioactive Material: Regulates packaging, transport, and handling of radioactive substances.
Organisational Structure
- Chairperson: Appointed by the Government of India.
- Committees and Advisory Bodies:
o Safety Review Committee for Operating Plants (SARCOP)
o Advisory Committee on Project Safety Review (ACPSR)
o Radiological Safety Advisory Committee (RSAC)
- These bodies support AERB with expert reviews and audits.
Safety Code:
- Safety Codes: Formulates and enforces safety codes, standards, and guidelines.
- International Coordination:
o Collaborates with IAEA (International Atomic Energy Agency).
o Participates in global nuclear safety conventions like the Convention on Nuclear Safety (CNS).
o Aligns Indian safety protocols with international best practices.
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