CONSISTENT AND EFFICIENT USE OF SURVEILLANCE EQUIPMENT BY INTERNATIONAL SAFEGUARDS

As part of the containment and surveillance (C/S) measures applied as an element of International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) safeguards, a large number of surveillance systems and cameras are installed in worldwide nuclear facilities. The individual factors that can contribute to the number of installed cameras were explored. The implementation of integrated safeguards, requirement for dual C/S, use of mixed oxide fuel, facility type and use of remote monitoring are amongst the many factors affecting decisions regarding the number of cameras implemented. Other factors which can be influenced during the equipment development process include the reliability and capability of cameras and the effort needed to perform the surveillance review. Finally the availability of State-supplied surveillance equipment, where States have agreed with the IAEA to purchase cameras through cost sharing agreements, has also been considered. This paper provides recommendations to enhance the efficiency of and consistency in the use of surveillance equipment by the IAEA. The recommendations are based upon the enhanced functionality and anticipated improved reliability of the Next Generation Surveillance System (NGSS), a technology which is in the final stage of development. The paper also includes recommendations regarding the replacement plans required for NGSS implementation and a summary of the expected efficiency improvements in the course of this transition.