Safety enhancement of research reactors – IAEA programmes and activities

Through its programmes and activities, the IAEA continues to significantly contribute safety enhancement of research reactors worldwide. These programmes and associated activities are constantly adjusted to address the needs of Member States, as well as the recent issues and trends, and challenges facing the research reactor community. The overall objective of the IAEA sub-programme on research reactor safety is to assist Member States in achieving and maintaining a high level of safety in all activities and stages of the facilities' lifetime. The strategy of implementation of this sub-programme is to support Member States in the effective application of the Code of Conduct on the Safety of Research Reactors and the IAEA safety standards, conduct peer reviews based on these standards, support capacity building, disseminate operating experience, and promote information networks and exchange of operating experience. The implementation of the sub-programme resulted in a significant progress in enhancing the safety of research reactors worldwide. However, further improvements are needed in a number of areas and efforts are still needed to address emerging challenges, including in relation to regulatory effectiveness, ageing management, and establishment of nuclear infrastructure for countries building their first research reactor. This paper discusses the safety issues and challenges for research reactors and the IAEA activities to support Member States in addressing these issues and challenges, together with the recent progress and achievements, and areas of future focus to continue enhance the safety of these facilities, which is essential for ensuring effectiveness and sustainability. (author)