The Health and Safety Executive and the Environment Agency are working together to make sure that any new nuclear power stations built in the UK will meet high standards of safety, security, environmental protection and waste management.        (23 March 2009)

We are currently assessing two new nuclear reactor designs.  This e-Bulletin provides you with an update on our assessment process.


1. NEW, IMPROVED JOINT ASSESSMENT WEBSITE GOES LIVE

In order to improve the service we provide to our stakeholders, we have revised our website; improving the layout, providing more information on how GDA links up with licensing and the Government's wider nuclear programme, and making it easier for members of the public to understand.  Visit the website at:

http://www.hse.gov.uk/newreactors/index.htm?ebul=newreactor/23-March-2009=cr1

2. RECRUITING NUCLEAR INSPECTORS

The Nuclear Directorate is looking to recruit Nuclear Inspectors in a range of disciplines. Could you use your proven track record as a high quality professional to secure and improve nuclear safety through your expertise, experience and personal qualities?  If so then visit the following website for more information about a fascinating, challenging and highly rewarding career as a nuclear inspector.  Find out more at:

http://www.youprotectpeople.co.uk?ebul=newreactor/23-March-2009=cr2

3. NEW STRATEGY FOR WORKING WITH OVERSEAS REGULATORS

On 23 March 2009, the HSE published its strategy for working with, and using information from, overseas regulators during the assessment of new nuclear power station designs.  Find out more at:

http://www.hse.gov.uk/newreactors/international.htm?ebul=newreactor/23-March-2009=cr3

4. NII PLACES NEW TECHNICAL SUPPORT CONTRACTS

As part of its drive to increase the pace of GDA, NII has started to place work packages with contractors to provide advice on detailed matters of design for the two proposed nuclear power station designs.  So far, it has placed 8 work packages with a total value of around £1m.  NII expects to place more work packages over the coming weeks and months.  Find out more at:

http://www.hse.gov.uk/newreactors/news.htm?ebul=newreactor/23-March-2009=cr4

5. GOVERMENT REVIEW OF NUCLEAR REGULATION

The UK Government initiated in early 2008 a review into the UK's nuclear regulatory regime. The recommendations and the Government's response were published at the end of January 2009. One of the major recommendations is to establish HSE's Nuclear Directorate as a Statutory Corporation under the auspices of HSE.  Find out more at:

http://www.hse.gov.uk/nuclear/stonereview.htm?ebul=newreactor/23-March-2009=cr5