Regulatory Oversight of Filtered Venting and Containment Integrity at Canadian Nuclear Power Plants

In the case of a severe accident (SA) at a nuclear power plant, filtered containment venting (FCV) is an option that can, in the absence of other means, to reduce the build-up of pressure in containment from steam and incondensable gas accumulation, while mitigating radioactivity releases to the environment. In providing an additional line of defense, a FCV, would be an important tool to help manage an accident, protect the surrounding population, and reduce on-and off-site contamination. The focus of this presentation is to summarize the current status and near future plans for the operating Canadian NPPs, regarding venting options. The paper will discuss how the FCV fits into the larger context of severe accident management to protect containment integrity and unfiltered releases into the environment. The incorporation of FCV into the regulatory framework of the CNSC will also be presented. (author)