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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.
Chevy Cahyana, Edwin Yoga Pratama, Irvan Dwi Junianto, Nunik Madyaningarum, Khusnul Khotimah, Yulaida Maya Sari, Ika Wahyu Setya Andani, Mochammad Ari Rahmadani, Dinnia Intaningrum, Ali Musyafa, Iswanto Iswanto
Nuclear Technology | Volume 211 | Number 12 | December 2025 | Pages 3094-3109
Regular Research Article | doi.org/10.1080/00295450.2025.2462453
Articles are hosted by Taylor and Francis Online.
This research develops a computational approach for predicting the dispersion of radioactive effluents in the air, addressing environmental protection and public health concerns. In accordance with regulatory requirements, facility operators in Indonesia must report data on radioactive effluents to BAPETEN and establish limit values for the release of radioactivity to ensure radiation protection. Accurate simulations of the dispersion patterns of radioactive effluents are crucial. A Gaussian dispersion model, widely used in environmental health and atmospheric studies, was applied in this research.
The aim was to develop a computational application to simulate the dispersion of radionuclide particulates and assess their potential impact on human health. The methodology involved the use of Python for model implementation, incorporating atmospheric stability classifications (Pasquill method), lateral and vertical dispersion coefficients, and the development of the computational modeling application DISCHEV (Particle Dispersion in Air Based on Python). The application was rigorously tested, with verification comparing the results to theoretical expectations and outputs from established models. The simulation results demonstrated a minimal deviation of 0.0000% when compared to Microsoft Excel calculations, indicating high accuracy.
The findings highlight the effectiveness of computational models in predicting radioactive effluent dispersion and their potential for enhancing environmental quality, radiological safety, and health risk assessments. The successful development of DISCHEV showcases the power of advanced programming techniques in improving environmental protection strategies. Future applications could further refine these models for more precise and dynamic simulations of radioactive emissions.