Public asked to comment on nuclear rules

The Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (Fanr), the UAE's independent regulator for nuclear sector, seeks public comments on the draft regulation, Design of Nuclear Facilities. The draft regulation has already been made available to local and federal government entities for their feedback.

The Design of Nuclear Facilities Regulation establishes the design requirements for structures, systems and components important to the safe operation of a nuclear facility. It also establishes requirements for a comprehensive safety assessment, as part of the design process, which is carried out to identify the potential hazards that may arise from the operation of a particular nuclear facility.

Once the regulation comes into force, it will apply to any applicant who seeks a licence to construct or operate a nuclear facility or to any licence holder who operates a nuclear facility in the country.

This regulation will be available to the public until 14 December 2010. Members of the public who are interested in making comments may request a copy of the draft regulation via regulation@fanr.gov.ae. Comments may be returned to Fanr via the same email address.

As per Fanr's policy of operational transparency as stipulated in Federal Law by Decree No 6 of 2009, Regarding the Peaceful Uses of Nuclear Energy, Fanr recognises the importance of inviting the public to comment. Fanr will publish the final version of the Design of Nuclear Facilities Regulation in the Official Gazette once it has been approved by Fanr's Board of Management.