Nuclear Safety, Security and Safeguards: Triple S - Applying a Concept

The synergies between Nuclear Safety, Security and Safeguards have long been discussed, with several initiatives to promote a move away from the position of three distinct disciplines to achieve a collaborative approach that delivers greater value. Whilst the inter-relationship and synergies no doubt exist, they have been somewhat harder to practically realise than many had initially postulated. The UK’s National Nuclear Laboratory has brought together the three disciplines into one team, and has applied the ‘Triple S’ concept to real projects. In some instances the interfaces are already clear and established, as is the case between safety and security in the areas of Vital Area Identification. In others the interface is developing, such as the utilisation of safeguards related techniques such as nuclear material accountancy and control to enhance the security of materials. This paper presents a practical example of the progress to date in implementing Triple S by a duty holder and discusses the learning so far.