Application of Rasmussen Report methods in FRG

The so-called Rasmussen report (WASH-1400 Reactor Safety Study) became the stimulus for the Federal Republic of Germany to commission a study assessing the risk of nuclear power plant accidents. Stage I of the study was completed in August 1979 and also takes into consideration the conclusions drawn from the Three Mile Island-2 accident. The study is focused on the assessment of the risk of accidents resulting in extensive radioactivity leakage due to core meltdown. The overall probability of core meltdown was determined to be 9x10-5. Another important factor is the probability of containment failure. The results of the study are in good agreement with those of the Rasmussen Report. In contrast to the Rasmussen Report, the study does not compare the risks of nuclear power plant accident with other risks because the characteristics of these other risks are different. (Ha)