International Standards and National Regulation on Seismic Safety Assessment

Abstract

Many nuclear power plants have been or will be constructed around the world, including countries and regions with middle to high seismicity. Safety standards published by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) reflect an international consensus. Each nation, e.g., the United State or Japan, develops its own codes and standards on its own responsibility. IAEA safety standards are bases for codes and standards for each nation. This chapter outlines the standardized practice with respect to seismic safety including earthquake-resistant design. IAEA safety standards and US nuclear safety regulations are introduced mainly focusing on the structures and hierarchy, as well as methods and techniques related to seismic safety assessment.