Physical protection provides for securing the health, safety and welfare of people at work, the public and the environment against the misuse of nuclear installations and nuclear and radioactive material. It consists of a variety of measures against sabotage, theft and diversion. The measures are usually based on the significance of the material or facilities being protected. For nuclear safety the requirements are set by a government authority and given to owners or operators of a nuclear installation with the operating licence. The authority also assesses the compliance with the given requirements. The protection measures are based on threat assessment scenarios, which define the level of physical security necessary.

Nuclear facilities

Nuclear facilities and nuclear material used in facilities require physical protection. Facilities include nuclear reactors and other fuel cycle facilities, including spent fuel storage and disposal facilities. In line with nuclear safety and some safeguards requirements, physical protection areas are defined so that defence in depth can be applied in these graded areas: exclusion, protected and vital areas, together with material access areas and associated barriers and controls. Perimeters are defined, usually indicated by walls or fences, and guards that monitor both the perimeter and gates. Intrusion detection is a frequently applied principle; detection alarms must be able to distinguish between false or nuisance alarms and actual intrusions, which require the initiation of a response. Assessment of detection and alarm systems is essential to an effective protection system. Based on intrusive events a graded system of responses is required and will be tested regularly. Responses include offsite assistance from local and other agencies as needed.