OREANDA-NEWS. August 16, 2016. The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) is asking the public to provide their comments on draft REGDOC-1.1.1, Licence to Prepare Site and Site Evaluation for New Reactor Facilities.

This document sets out requirements and guidance for site preparation and site evaluation for new nuclear power plants and small reactor facilities. It also provides requirements and guidance for a licence to prepare site. The lifecycle phases of construction and operation are also addressed.

Once published, this document will supersede RD-346, Site Evaluation for Nuclear Power Plants. REGDOC-1.1.1 has revised the content of RD-346 to:

  • clarify requirements and guidance language
  • expand scope to include small reactor facilities using a graded approach
  • include site preparation requirements and guidance

REGDOC-1.1.1 also incorporates lessons learned from the Fukushima nuclear event of March 2011. Amendments were made to address findings from INFO-0824, CNSC Fukushima Task Force Report, and the subsequently issued action plans as applicable to RD-346.

REGDOC-1.1.1 is part of the CNSC’s reactor facilities series of regulatory documents, which also includes licence application guides for licences to construct, operate and decommission nuclear power plants.

A request for information specific to this document is also included, which outlines the regulatory objectives and approach, as well as the potential impacts on stakeholders.

The public is asked to provide clear and specific feedback to help CNSC staff refine, or revisit, initial assumptions and objectives.

To review and comment on the document and request for information, visit the REGDOC-1.1.1 webpage. Please submit your feedback by November 12, 2016. Comments submitted, including names and affiliations, are intended to be made public.

The CNSC regulates the use of nuclear energy and materials to protect the health, safety and security and the environment; to implement Canada’s international commitments on the peaceful use of nuclear energy; and to disseminate objective scientific, technical and regulatory information to the public.

Quick facts

  • The CNSC’s work is undertaken in accordance with the comprehensive requirements of the Nuclear Safety and Control Act and its related regulations, which reflect Canadian and international safety standards.
  • At each licensing stage, the CNSC determines if the licence applicant is qualified and has made adequate provisions for the protection of health and safety of persons and environment.
  • The CNSC welcomes public input on draft and published regulatory documents.