REGULATORY ASPECTS OF OPERATIONS

14.47. We have seen that licensing and other regulatory considerations affect practically every aspect of reactor operations. In addition to the activities described, several additional points are worthy of mention here. Adherence to regulations is monitored by on-site NRC personnel. Reactor

operators are licensed and must meet strict fitness for duty requirements. The industry has provided extensive training programs to qualify operating personnel which are subject to accreditation by INPO.

14.48. During maintenance operations, radiation exposures must be kept “as low as reasonably achievable” (ALARA) (§6.63). Radiation pro­tection and exposure times must be such that doses are as far below the numerical limits as is practical, as confirmed by appropriate monitoring and reports to the NRC.

14.49. In-service inspection of components and auxiliary systems is re­quired to assure the continued integrity of a reactor’s primary system and safety-related equipment. In connection with this and other license-related activities, reports to NRC are required.