IAEA gives Japan's nuclear facilities, protocols high marks

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) finished a two-week review on Friday of Japan's nuclear security practices.

The IAEA conducted an International Physical Protection Advisory Service (IPPAS) mission. Japan’s Nuclear Regulation Authority (NRA) requested the review, which focused on the security at nuclear facilities and the regimen used for nuclear security.

"The invitation by Japan of this IPPAS mission demonstrates its commitment to the continuous improvement of its national nuclear security regimen,” Denis Flory, IAEA deputy director general and head of the Department of Nuclear Safety and Security, said. “We welcome the width of the scope reviewed, covering the overall regimen and security systems at three facilities, and after the successful outcome of this IPPAS mission, we welcome Japan's commitment to take the necessary follow-up measures.”

The team found the nation's nuclear security regimen and nuclear facilities to be sustainable and safe. The team also found that there were a lot of good practices in place and that there had been a lot of improvements made since previous inspections over the years.

"The outcome of the IPPAS mission review will be extremely useful for us to further improve our nuclear security regimen in Japan,” Shunichi Tanaka, chairman of the NRA, said. “Hereafter, the NRA will fully examine the recommendations and suggestions to be presented in the final report of the mission and strive to take the necessary measures. Also, the NRA recognizes that it is necessary to receive a follow-up mission, and also further missions, to review other modules of the IPPAS.”