IAEA safeguards experience

The paper presents an overview of inspection work performed by the IAEA Divisions of Operations in the Department of Safeguards. The general increase in the workload from 1986 to 1992 in terms of countries, facilities and nuclear material is shown in a general 'zero growth' budget situation. Staffing levels have remained stable over these years, and certain problems are beginning to show. Changes redefining the role of IAEA safeguards are being discussed, some of which may provide a potential to reallocate some resources, but many others will create new demands on safeguards operations with regard to capacity, new skills and training, reflecting adaptation to new requirements from a re-interpretation of international safeguards. With the investigation of new requirements it will inevitable also to re-examine the resources necessary to enable IAEA safeguards to fulfill the changing or rather increasing expectations. (author). 15 refs, 8 figs