A Proposal for Governance of Response During the Transition and Recovery Phases Following a Large-scale Nuclear Accident

Abstract

Since the Fukushima nuclear power plant accident, the importance of a smooth transition from the emergency phase to the recovery phase has been highlighted for the prompt resumption of social and economic activities. Recently, the IAEA has published its recommendations and guidelines on the arrangements that can be made to facilitate the transition from emergency to recovery phases. The development of a recovery management framework in preparedness is key to ensuring that the recovery process is managed effectively and the objectives of recovery are met. As part of this framework, this study has drawn up an improvement plan for the “Act on Physical Protection and Radiological Emergency” in terms of governance of the transition and recovery phases. This plan is summarized in the establishment of a government-level dedicated organization to oversee the activities that take place during transition and recovery, as well as its operating system and assignment of responsibilities and roles between the local and national governments in recovery. The results of this study could be used as input to revise related laws and manuals to strengthen governance during the transition and recovery phases that follow a nuclear accident.