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2026 Nuclear Energy Conference & Expo (NECX)
August 24–27, 2026
Dallas, TX|Hilton Anatole
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The human factor in licensing and operating the next generation of nuclear plants
As human factors specialists working at the intersection of human performance and nuclear operations, we are witnessing one of the nuclear sector’s most significant transitions in decades. The emergence of small modular reactors, microreactors, and other advanced designs is reshaping the industry’s landscape. Digital instrumentation and controls, passive safety systems, and increased automation are creating opportunities for greater safety margins and more flexible operation. These same features also fundamentally redefine what it means to “operate” a nuclear plant. Interactions among human roles, automation, and passive systems shape how people maintain awareness, exercise judgment, and intervene when necessary. These developments affect both operational realities and the regulatory foundations on which nuclear safety is built.
For more details on any of the standards below, please contact standards.
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Before work on a draft standard can begin, a Project Initiation Notification System (PINS) form must be approved and submitted to the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). The following projects have PINS forms in the development and/or approval process:
The following projects have approved PINS forms and are in development:
This section provides notice of public review on proposed draft new American National Standards, and on proposals to revise, reaffirm or withdraw approval of existing American National Standards. Comments in connection with a draft standard must be submitted in writing/electronically (in accordance with ANS procedures) no later than the last day of the specified comment period. Comments shall be specific to the section(s) of the standard under review and include sufficient detail to enable the reader to understand the commenter's position, concerns and suggested alternative language, if appropriate.
To request an electronic copy and comment form contact standards@ans.org
Single copy price: $50.00
The following drafts are open for public comment:
ANS-8.22-202x, Nuclear Criticality Safety Based on Limiting and Controlling Moderators [revision of ANSI/ANS-8.22-1997 (R2021)]
This standard provides criteria for limiting and controlling moderators in operations with fissile materials. This standard applies to those operations that depend on moderator control for maintaining subcritical conditions. This standard does not apply to concentration control of fissile materials.
Comment deadline: July 23, 2026 (comments received after this date will not be accepted)
Projects at ballot have completed drafts that have been issued for subcommittee or consensus committee ballot/concurrent public review. Before proceeding, all comments must be considered. Multiple ballots may be needed before a draft is approved. The following draft standards are in the process of approval/comment resolution:
The following new or revised standards have recently received ANSI approval:
To request information to attend standards committee meetings, please contact standards@ans.org.
Last modified July 13, 2026, 10:11am CDT
