An International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Integrated Regulatory Review Service (IRRS) team has assessed that Spain showed a strong commitment to nuclear and radiation safety, and has fully implementing recommendations made during the Agency’s 2018 mission.

The follow-up mission, requested by the Government of Spain, was hosted by the Nuclear Safety Council (CSN), the Ministry for Ecological Transition & Demographic Challenge (MITECO), the Ministry of Health (MOH), and the Ministry of Interior (MOI). It reviewed progress on the recommendations and suggestions identified in the initial IRRS mission in 2018, except for those covering the management of radioactive waste, used fuel and decommissioning. These will be covered by an upcoming Integrated Review Service for Radioactive Waste and Spent Fuel Management, Decommissioning and Remediation (ARTEMIS) follow-up mission, expected to take place later in 2025.

Spain utilises nuclear and radiation technologies for energy production, medical applications, industry and research. Seven operating nuclear power reactors, produce around 20% of its electricity. Three NPPs are in permanent shutdown and are in different stages of decommissioning and closure. Most of the reactor sites have interim used fuel storage facilities, and Spain has one disposal facility for very low, low and intermediate level radioactive waste.

The IRRS team comprised four regulatory experts from France, Germany, Switzerland and the US, as well as four IAEA staff members. They conducted interviews and discussions with CSN and MITECO staff and representatives from the MOH and MOI. The team found that 12 recommendations and 20 suggestions made in 2018 had been adequately addressed. As a result, they have been either fully closed or closed on the basis of progress made and confidence in effective completion in due time.

“The IRRS team was very impressed with the high degree of commitment and professionalism demonstrated by our Spanish counterparts,” said Scott Morris, Regional Administrator for the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission and Team Leader for this mission. “Their focus on continuous improvement of the legal and regulatory framework for nuclear and radiological safety in Spain is commendable.”

The team identified notable achievements by CSN in the following areas:

  • Developing a human resource plan, including a systematic training approach for all staff.
  • Strengthening the safety culture of the CSN.
  • Establishment of a national radon action plan.
  • Ensuring CSN’s effective collaboration with the Autonomous Communities of Spain.

Two good practices were also highlighted:

  • The Digital Radiation Passbook, a digital platform created by CSN that provides users with real time dose data, reduces the need for manual data input and enables the regulator to conduct real-time statistical analyses; and
  • A centralised digital dosimetry system, provided by the CSN, to be used during emergencies for real-time radiation dose monitoring of emergency workers of all off-site response organisations.

The IRRS team suggested that Spain establish guidance documents related to possible radiation risks delivered to the public by authorised parties as required by legal provisions, in accordance with a graded approach.

Juan Carlos Lentijo, CSN President, said: “The IRRS follow-up mission reinforces Spain’s commitment to nuclear safety and radiation protection. This process is a valuable tool to work on robust and future-proof safety systems, where excellence continues to be the highest priority.” The final mission report will be provided to the Government in about three months.