Technical Reports

Neutron Activation Analysis (NAA) is the most common technique used in research reactors worldwide. The IAEA aims to enhance quality assurance in NAA laboratories by supporting annual proficiency testing, by developing and offering relevant e-learning as well as specialized publications. This publication, which is based on the most up to date relevant ISO guides and international practices, provides practical guidance on quality assurance (QA) and quality control (QC) in NAA laboratories. It is intended to be used in the day-to-day work of NAA at research reactors. Potential sources of errors and associated QA/QC actions are detailed for all main areas of NAA practice. Easy to use tables are provided, intended for direct reference in the laboratory.

There is a growing societal awareness regarding the importance of regulatory systems for nuclear facilities and activities to have visible oversight of safety and security interfaces. This publication compiles relevant IAEA requirements, recommendations and guidance on identifying and addressing potential and actual interactions between nuclear safety and nuclear security systems and measures in nuclear power plants (NPPs). It also presents regulatory practices that are important to consider for nuclear safety and nuclear security, as they may reinforce or compromise the capacity of the regulatory bodies, competent authorities and operating organizations to meet nuclear safety and nuclear security requirements, including requirements relating to the interfaces between safety and security, during the application of regulatory functions in the various stages of the lifetime of an NPP.

This publication was developed from the exchange of information, experiences and practices by participating Member States at the IAEA Technical Meeting on the Safety and Security Interface-Approaches and National Experiences, held in Vienna in 2018. It aims to provide a better understanding of the important elements of the interface between nuclear safety and nuclear security for facilities and activities and to highlight the challenges, opportunities and good practices for its effective management when planning and implementing different programmes and activities.