The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC), known since 1946 as the Atomic Energy Control Board (AECB), is the federal regulator of nuclear power and materials in Canada, established in 2000 by the Canadian Nuclear Safety and Control Act. In addition to nuclear power plants and nuclear research facilities, the CNSC regulates numerous other uses of nuclear material such as radioisotopes used in the treatment of cancer, the operation of uranium mines and refineries, and the use of radioactive sources for oil exploration and in instruments such as precipitation measurement devices. The CNSC also implements Canada's international commitments on the peaceful use of nuclear energy. The CNSC is an independent agency of the Government of Canada which reports to the Parliament of Canada through the Minister of Natural Resources.
The regulatory system is designed to protect people and the environment from human-made radiation resulting from the use of nuclear energy and materials at licensed sites. This is accomplished through a licensing process that requires the licensee to prove that their operations are safe. At the basis of the regulatory system is the principle that no technology is fail proof, so licensees must incorporate multiple layers of protection whenever radioactive materials are used.
The CNSC implements measures to ensure that Canada's international obligations are met with respect to activities related to nuclear and radioactive materials. This includes Canada's safeguards obligations pursuant to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons. The CNSC also licenses the import, export and transportation of nuclear materials and other prescribed substances, equipment, technology and dual-use items.
CNSC staff play an important role in protecting health, safety, security and the environment by monitoring and inspecting licensed activities. As part of that role, CNSC staff evaluate the performance of nuclear power plants. Staff also contribute to the development of international nuclear safety standards and nuclear non-proliferation fora.
Read more about Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission: Organizational Structure, Dismissal of CNSC Chair Linda Keen
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