Design information verification. Role, requirements and implementation

The IAEA currently carries out routine safeguards inspections at one medium capacity reprocessing plant and monitors the shutdown status of a number of smaller reprocessing facilities. In addition, an 800 t/a commercial plant and a 100 t/a demonstration plant for reprocessing fast breeder fuel are planned for construction by the end of the century and will be subject to IAEA safeguards. An integral part of the implementation of IAEA safeguards at all facilities is the design information verification (DIV). The DIV requirements for such complex facilities as reprocessing plants are most demanding. The verification of a facility's initial design establishes the credibility and integrity of the safeguards approach. The continuation of DIV activities throughout the lifetime of the facility ensures that the safeguards approach continues to be appropriate, that the design and function of the facility remain as previously declared and that no undeclared activities are taking place. (author). 8 refs, 3 tabs