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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.
Gerald L. Palau
Nuclear Technology | Volume 87 | Number 3 | November 1989 | Pages 679-682
Technical Paper | TMI-2: Remote Technology and Engineering / Criticality Safety | doi.org/10.13182/NT89-A27719
Articles are hosted by Taylor and Francis Online.
During the accident at Three Mile Island Unit 2 (TMI-2), small quantities of fuel material were transported to plant piping systems outside the reactor coolant system (RCS). The likelihood of a criticality outside of the RCS during the cleanup of the plant systems was very small; however, given the consequence of any possible critical event in the TMI-2 systems, it was always necessary to ensure that all steps were taken to prevent criticality. Therefore, engineered controls were developed to ensure that decontamination of plant systems containing fuel material could be conducted in a manner that precluded criticality.