The Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR) has signed an updated Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Environment Agency.
The MoU will help to strengthen the relationship between the two regulators, supporting the protection of society with safe and secure nuclear operations.
The purpose of this MoU is to promote effective cooperation, understanding, and robust regulation while providing mutual assurance between ONR and the Environment Agency in discharging their respective roles.
The MoU relates principally to the regulation of nuclear safety, security, safeguards, transport and environmental protection on nuclear licensed sites. It provides the high-level framework for how our regulatory activities will be coordinated to:
- deliver effective and efficient regulation of the nuclear industry in England, and ensure international safeguards obligations for the UK are met;
- maintain and improve standards of protection of people and the environment from the potential hazards from ionising radiations and other hazards; and
- ensure that radioactive wastes are appropriately managed in both the short and long term.
Paul Dicks, ONR’s Director of Regulation, Sellafield Decommissioning Fuel and Waste, said: “Working collaboratively with other national regulators is a key priority for ONR. It allows us to learn from each other and to share good practice which will contribute to ensuring that the high standards of nuclear safety are maintained.
“I look forward to strengthening our relationship with the Environment Agency and working together on matters of mutual interest to our organisations.”
Philip Duffy, Chief Executive of the Environment Agency, said: “We have enjoyed a productive partnership with ONR for many years, built on mutual respect for our respective roles. This revised MoU will further support the growth of the nuclear sector while ensuring the protection of people and the environment.”