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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.
2020 ANS Virtual Winter Meeting Plenary Session Speaker
Dr. Cool is currently the Technical Executive for Radiation Safety with the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI). In this role, he provides technical guidance in radiation safety and protection, and is actively involved in EPRI research on low dose radiation effects.
Dr. Cool received his B.S. degree in Biology from Houghton College. His Masters and Doctorate degrees are in Radiation Biology from the University of Rochester, School of Medicine and Dentistry.
Dr. Cool retired from the U. S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) in July 2015, after more than 32 years of service. He was a Senior Executive and Senior Advisor overseeing and coordinating a wide range of activities related to radiation protection, safety and security of byproduct materials, decommissioning and waste management, radiation protection regulation, policy and guidance, and international standards.
Dr. Cool has been a leader in U.S. and international radiation protection, standards, and recommendations throughout his career. He is a member of the Main Commission of the International Commission on Radiological Protection, and Chair of ICRP Committee 4. He is a Council Member of the U.S. National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements and was the Co-Chair of NCRP Council Committee 1 which produced NCRP Report 180, Management of Exposure to Ionizing Radiation: Radiation Protection Guidance for the United States. He has served on numerous panels and expert groups of the International Atomic Energy Agency and Nuclear Energy Agency.
Dr. Cool is a Fellow of the Health Physics Society.
Last modified October 26, 2020, 9:24am EDT
