Technical and Scientific Support Organizations Conference Starts Next Week

Technical and scientific support organizations (TSOs) are a key driving force in nuclear safety and security - providing vital scientific expertise to national regulatory bodies for optimum decision-making to achieve enhanced nuclear and radiation safety and security of facilities and activities.

The conference, which focuses on the progress as well as current challenges and opportunities faced by TSOs, is being organized by the IAEA in cooperation with the European Technical Safety Organizations Network (ETSON).

"TSOs play such a vital role in engaging with all stakeholders to enhance safety, build trust in scientific expertise, and foster a broader understanding of both the benefits and challenges associated with nuclear power," said the Conference President Jean-Christophe Niel, Director General of the French Institute of Radioprotection and Nuclear Safety (IRSN).

He added: "TSOs have an important responsibility in the current situation as profound changes are underway in the nuclear sector worldwide, and they have to identify in advance upcoming challenges and to be prepared to assess them in a timely manner."

This event follows four preceding conferences on this subject, which were held in Belgium (2018), China (2014), Japan (2010) and France (2007). This year's TSO conference will again play a vital part in national and international efforts to ensure and further enhance the effectiveness of nuclear and radiation safety and security regulatory systems.

The conference discussions will focus on strengthening technical capabilities to achieve enhanced safety and security, emerging challenges, and the sharing of best practices with countries interested in nuclear power, as the IAEA helps embarking countries develop science-based regulatory infrastructure.

"Strengthening the capacity of TSOs is crucial to ensure the effectiveness of nuclear safety and security infrastructure," said Lydie Evrard, IAEA Deputy Director General and Head of the Department of Nuclear Safety and Security.

She added: "This conference provides a useful and important platform for TSOs and other stakeholders to raise awareness among a wider audience on the TSO role in supporting scientific and technical collaboration that contributes to strengthening the regulatory infrastructure for radiation and nuclear safety and security."

The International Conference on Enhancing Nuclear Safety and Security through Technical and Scientific Support Organizations (TSOs): Challenges and Opportunities in a Rapidly Changing World will run from 2-6 December 2024.