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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.
Kenneth J. Schneider, Peter J. Pelto, Jay C. Lavender, Philip M. Daling, Barbara A. Fecht
Nuclear Technology | Volume 82 | Number 1 | July 1988 | Pages 106-113
Technical Note | Radioactive Waste Management | doi.org/10.13182/NT88-A34121
Articles are hosted by Taylor and Francis Online.
In the commercial nuclear spent-fuel management system, potential changes are being considered that will improve the transportation-related aspects of the system. The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has recognized that alternative options could be implemented in the authorized waste management system to achieve some improvements. Analyses have been performed for the DOE related to radiation doses in the system to the public and workers that would result from potential changes in the transportation-related aspects in the system. The primary alternatives studied to reduce radiation doses concern increasing transportation cask capacity.