NRC

The NRC has a important role in that it regulates the operation and regulation of Nuclear ReactorNuclear ReactorIn it's most simplest form, a nuclear reactor uses Uranium and other radioactive materials and the fission from uranium to create heat, and transfer that heat into steam to create power. Nuclear reactors are one of the biggest sources of energy, although not renewable, uranium has a very high energy density resulting in massive power transmissions. There are many different types of nuclear reactors, and this term serves as a broad hub/introduction for each type. After uranium is used in reactos in the USA. This regulation is done by many means, one of which is reporting of all reactor activities daily. The regulation is scrutinized due to the risk of radiation contamination and the possibility of attacks or the usage of enriched uranium for weapons. The NRC also manages (In conjunction with OSHA and DOL) the radiation standards and regulations of workers.

The NRC does not only work with reactors; rather, it regulates all radiation sources and possibilities. One common source is nuclear medicine; many machineries use capsules that contain radioactive sources.

Regulations

The NRC's regulations are covered by its NRC 10 CFRNRC 10 CFRThe NRC 10 Code of Federal Regulations are the standards that govern the USNRC, governing its regulations on Nuclear Reactors. The CFR is lengthy, however the NRC website has helpfully devided it into sections and subparts; a brief summary of the most interesting and informative sections will be listed below. Part 20 - Standards for Protection against Radiation An interesting portion of this section is its long explanation of important definitions that are often used in NRC event reports on it, which is also what is referenced in NRC event reports given by plant operators. (the interlink leads to a summary of the most important parts of said CFR).

Event Reports

NRC also releases event reports that are from licenses owners that are required under their regulations.