Wednesday, 18 December 2024
President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed the National Nuclear Regulator Amendment Bill into law, marking a significant step in enhancing South Africa’s nuclear safety oversight. The newly amended legislation broadens the mandate of the National Nuclear Regulator (NNR) to align with international best practices and expand its regulatory functions.
The amendments bring the National Nuclear Regulator Act of 1999 in line with standards set by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). As a founding member of the IAEA and a signatory to key nuclear safety conventions, South Africa is committed to maintaining rigorous oversight of nuclear-related activities.
Key provisions of the amended law include:
- Decontamination and Civilian Reuse: The Regulator now oversees the decontamination, decommissioning, and repurposing of South African National Defence Force (SANDF) facilities, equipment, and materials for civilian use, ensuring they pose no radiation risks.
- Aircrew Safety: The Regulator will exercise oversight of aircrew occupational exposure to cosmic radiation for flights below 49,000 feet.
- Expanded Governance: New provisions clarify the management and governance of the NNR, including board terms, committee structures, and additional activities requiring authorisation.
- Naval Vessel Exemption: The law excludes the application of the Defence Act of 2002 for foreign naval vessels visiting South African waters, addressing disclosure challenges associated with military assets of foreign states.
These changes underscore the government’s commitment to safeguarding public health and national security in the context of nuclear activities. By empowering the NNR with broader oversight, the law ensures that South Africa remains at the forefront of global nuclear safety standards.
