Safeguards against the escape of radionuclides into the environment from nuclear power installations

Small amounts of radioactivity may be released to the environment in routine operation and larger amounts in accidents either at a power station or at nuclear fuel processing works or during transport of irradiated fuel between the two. The object in design and operation of the plant is to minimise the frequency and severity of such risks. The regulatory framework and the technical practices adopted throughout the life of the plant are described, with emphasis on the principle that radioactive discharges should be as low as reasonably practicable. (author)