The Safety and Security of Small Modular Reactors

Advanced reactors such as small modular reactors and other innovative designs are expected to provide considerable benefits to society and play a large role in decarbonizing our economies. These nuclear technologies can be very different from the current operating fleet. How can we ensure the effective deployment of safe and secure advanced reactors? The IAEA has completed a major project in cooperation with countries around the world to check how well existing safety standards apply to the innovative features that are being introduced. The IAEA is working on addressing the findings of this review by developing revised safety standards, technical publications and training materials.