INPO and the vitalization of the nuclear industry

The outline and the main features of the activities of the Institute of Nuclear Power Operations (INPO) are described together with the background of its establishment. The purpose of INPO is to help nuclear utilities achieve safe and reliable plant construction and operation through collective self-evaluation and self-criticism. Every nuclear utility in the United States is an INPO members. The International Program of INPO was established in 1981 to promote the exchange of information to and from non-U.S. utilities. Utility organizations in 13 countries currently are participating in the program. The importance of the international data inputs to help keep everyone world-wide alert to any problem anywhere is emphasized. The NUCLEAR NETWORK system is a computer-based telecommunication system that links the members and participants of INPO. The SEE-IN system (Significant Event Evaluation and Information Network) is used by utilities as an early-warning system on the operating events that potentially could have serious effect on nuclear plant operation. Other activities of INPO in important areas such as personnel training program, chemistry, radiological protection and emergency preparedness are also briefly reviewed. (Aoki, K.)