Control and inspection of nuclear power plants already in operation

The author discusses the basic legal aspects of control and inspection of nuclear power plants and their implementation. The latter is performed by on-site inspections, performance tests, environmental controls, evaluation of reactor operation reports, and obligation to give notice of any possible change in the plant or its operation. The Land of Bavaria has joined all nuclear power plants already in operation into a central long-distance control system, where a number of important values measured can be registered continuously. Any kind of disturbances or unusual occurances are to be reported to the control authority immediately. There is furthermore a discussion of the monitoring costs, the right of lower authorities to take individual steps, and the relationship between the Bavarian state ministry as nuclear control authority and the federal government. (HSCH)