EU Basic Safety Standards and European response to the Fukushima accident

European Commission, DG Energy, Radiation Protection Unit, EUFO 4157, L-2920 Luxembourg

Abstract

The European Basic Safety Standards Directive (EU, 1996) contains a chapter on intervention, which, to a large extent, is dedicated to emergency planning and response, but without detailed requirements. A new Directive will consolidate all existing Directives and thus broaden the scope to all exposure situations and categories of exposure, including the protection of the environment. This new text follows the situation-based approach recommended by ICRP (ICRP, 2007). The requirements for emergency preparedness have been worked out in more detail, and the use of reference levels for emergency response is highlighted. The accident in Fukushima prompted reflection on the Euratom legal framework, including the Basic Safety Standards, the arrangements for the early exchange of information (ECURIE) and legislation on the nuclear safety of nuclear installations. A “stress test” of EU nuclear power plants has been undertaken, which includes on-site emergency response. The results of this exercise will allow the Commission to report, by the end of 2012, to the EP and the Council, and to propose new legislation as appropriate. This may extend to the harmonisation of off-site emergency response and communication arrangements among Member States. Meanwhile, an informal coordination mechanism is being set up with the Heads of European Radiation Protection Competent Authorities (HERCA). With regard to the legislation on maximum permitted levels in food, there will be further reflection on the consistency between the controls in place after Chernobyl and after Fukushima, as well as their consistency with the values for the placing on the market of food and feed in the EU in the event of a future accident.