The regulatory control has to be stable and consistent with a formal process based on specified policies, principles and associated criteria; the process should follow specified procedures as established in the management system. Stability and consistency of regulatory control need to be ensured by preventing any subjectivity in the decision making of the individual staff members of the regulatory body. The regulatory decisions need to be justi­fied with the proper rationale to be traceable and supported. When carrying out its reviews, assessments and inspections, the regulatory body should inform the licensee of the objectives, principles and associated criteria for safety on which its requirements, judgements and decisions are based (IAEA, 2011a).

The regulatory body should always emphasize the continuous improve­ment of safety as a general objective. Changes in regulatory requirements are subject to careful scrutiny to evaluate the possible enhancements in safety that could be achieved. Any proposed changes in regulatory require­ments need to be based on informed judgements and there should also be the opportunity for consultation with the licensee.