Nuclear Regulation in Canada

The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) operates and enforces regulations under the Nuclear Safety and Control Act . Nuclear activities are carefully regulated to ensure their safe operation.

The Nuclear Safety and Control Act prohibits any person from preparing a site, constructing, operating, decommissioning or abandoning a nuclear facility without first obtaining a licence granted by the CNSC.

The Nuclear Safety and Control Act further states that:

“No licence may be issued unless, in the opinion of the Commission, the applicant:

• is qualified to carry on the activity that the licence will authorize the licensee to carry on; and
• will, in carrying on that activity, make adequate provision for the protection of the environment, the health and safety of persons and the maintenance of national security and measures required to implement international obligations to which Canada has agreed.”

• How we regulate
• Regulated Facilities and Activities