The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission regulates the nuclear industry in
Canada. The regulatory system is designed to protect people and the environment
from licensed sources of man-made radiation resulting from the use of nuclear
energy and materials.
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
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 evaluates the performance of
nuclear power plants. Staff also participates in international activities aimed
at the non-proliferation of nuclear weapons.
Nuclear safety and security have always been a CNSC priority and became even
more significant following the events of September 11, 2001. For more
information on the CNSC’s response to September 11, 2001, please see
Nuclear
Safety and Security in Canada.
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