Key Issues
Nuclear Power Plant Security
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February 2008
Key Facts
February 2008
Key Facts
- The defense-in-depth philosophy used in the construction and operation of nuclear power plants provides high levels of protection for public health and safety.
- The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission holds nuclear power plants to the highest security standards of any American industry. The industry meets or exceeds these requirements in all areas. As a result, America’s nuclear power plants are our nation’s most protected and secure industrial assets. Well-armed and highly trained security forces protect every U.S. nuclear facility. These forces are routinely drilled and tested to ensure their readiness.
- Since Sept. 11, 2001, security provisions at nuclear power plants have been strengthened. The NRC has issued new security requirements for nuclear plant sites, and all U.S. plants have met these requirements.
- As part of 2005 comprehensive energy legislation, Congress required that the NRC officially increase security requirements. The bill also mandated background checks on nuclear power plant workers and allowed guards to use more advanced weaponry.
- The industry has added about 3,000 officers and upgraded physical security since September 2001. The industry invested $2.1 billion over and above its ongoing security expenses to make these enhancements.
- The industry coordinates with the NRC, Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and intelligence agencies on the assessment of potential threats and the specific actions by industry security forces in the event of a credible threat against a commercial nuclear facility.
- All commercial nuclear plants have emergency response procedures and contingency plans in the event of a plant accident or terrorist event. These procedures are evaluated every two years during extensive drills involving plant personnel and local emergency management organizations. NRC and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) expert teams evaluate these drills.
