Up & Atom
NRC Exploring Potential Role of Artificial Intelligence in Commercial Nuclear Power Operations
By Alex S. Polonsky and Grant W. Eskelsen
As artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning tools become more widely adopted in various products and industries, the NRC has begun studying what roles these technologies can play in commercial nuclear power operations. On April 21, as part of its study, the NRC's Office of Nuclear Regulatory Research requested public comments on the role of these technologies "in the various phases of nuclear power generation operational experience and plant management."
Topics: Advanced Reactors, NRC, Nuclear Energy, Operations and Maintenance, Plant Modifications
NRC Staff Issues Guidance for Exercising Enforcement Discretion During COVID-19 Pandemic
By Lewis M. Csedrik and Grant W. Eskelsen
The US Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) Staff issued SECY-20-0034 on April 22, informing the NRC Commissioners of the Staff's plan to exercise enforcement discretion for licensee noncompliance with regulatory requirements resulting from illnesses or other factors caused by the coronavirus (COVID-19) public health emergency (PHE).
Topics: Access Authorization, COVID-19, Fitness for Duty, Inspections and Enforcement, Licensing, NRC, Operations and Maintenance
NRC and Industry Representatives Pursue Revised Definition of Operability of TS Equipment
At a meeting on June 1, the NRC and industry representatives agreed to pursue a revised definition of operability of those structures, systems, and components (SSCs) addressed in the technical specifications (TS) for nuclear power plants.
Topics: Inspections and Enforcement, Licensing, Operations and Maintenance