China Drafts Law to Strengthen Atomic Energy Accident Management

China is working to finalize its emergency management system for atomic energy accidents. This effort is part of a larger initiative to support the healthy and sustainable growth of the atomic energy industry. A draft law, currently under review by Chinese lawmakers, outlines the framework for this system.

The draft law includes 59 articles and introduces new regulations regarding emergency plans and drills. These additions are designed to improve the country's ability to prevent and manage atomic energy accidents. A key component of the draft is the establishment of a national atomic energy emergency coordination committee. This committee will be responsible for organizing emergency management efforts, coordinating the development of a national emergency plan, and implementing a graded management strategy for accident response.

The draft also mandates that relevant government departments, local governments, and nuclear facility operators create emergency plans in accordance with the law. They are also required to conduct drills and participate in emergency response activities. In the event of an accident, the draft emphasizes the importance of prompt action, prohibiting delays, cancellations, or false reporting.

To ensure adequate funding for preparedness and response efforts, the draft encourages the establishment of an atomic energy accident emergency preparedness fund. The draft also prioritizes safety in research, development, and utilization to prevent accidents. Operators of nuclear materials and facilities are required to take measures to prevent theft, damage, unauthorized access, illegal transfer, and nuclear terrorism. A national system for accounting and control of nuclear materials will also be established.

The draft law also addresses China's support for nuclear technology research and development, emphasizing atomic energy safety. For example, in the case of controlled thermonuclear fusion, the draft suggests fostering scientific research while establishing a specialized supervisory and management framework. It also outlines a graded management system for fuels and devices used in this technology.

The formulation of the atomic energy law is intended to present China as a responsible nuclear power. It aims to demonstrate China's commitment to international obligations and promote the concept of high-quality, safe, healthy, and sustainable development in the atomic energy industry.