The UK's programme for nuclear criticality safety research

Operators of nuclear installations in the UK maintain independent research programmes for commercial and safety reasons, but generic issues which affect all parts of industry are resolved and funded separately. If necessary this research may be commissioned at the request of the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), a distinct statutory body and the UK regulatory agency. UK Government requires that such programmes of research should be adequate and balanced and take account of issues likely to emerge in the short and long term. Such research should contribute as far as reasonably practicable to securing higher standards of nuclear safety and be disseminated as necessary.