International Standards
The UAE Peaceful Nuclear Energy Program seeks guidance from an extensive network of organizations whose members include some of the world’s most renowned experts in nuclear energy. The UAE government has worked closely with the International Atomic Energy Agency, as well as the governments of responsible nations to adopt and implement best practices and guidelines for the development of a world-class peaceful nuclear energy program.
International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)
The IAEA is the world´s center of cooperation in the nuclear field. It was set up as the world´s “Atoms for Peace” organization in 1957 within the United Nations family. The Agency works with its Member States and multiple partners worldwide to promote safe, secure and peaceful nuclear technologies.
The IAEA undertakes inspections of peaceful nuclear facilities, checks inventories and undertakes sampling and analysis of materials. Safeguards are designed to deter diversion of nuclear material by increasing the risk of early detection.
IAEA experts have already visited the UAE on a number of occasions to assess key components of the UAE Peaceful Nuclear Energy Program. For example, in 2015 a team of IAEA experts visited the UAE to inspect the Emergency Preparedness infrastructure. Their conclusions were positive and highlighted areas where the UAE is ahead of global practice. The experts also gave a list of areas for improvement which helped ENEC and its subsidiaries create a more robust infrastructure for handling emergency situations.
World Association of Nuclear Operators (WANO)
WANO is an organization created to improve safety at nuclear energy plants around the world. WANO was formed in May 1989 by nuclear operators world-wide uniting to exchange operating experience in a culture of openness, so members can work together to achieve the highest possible standards of nuclear safety.
ENEC has been an active WANO member since 2010, regularly participating in the organization’s workshops, events, training programs and peer reviews. Participating in the activities of WANO’s Atlanta Center, has supported the exchange of information and expertise with the operators of nuclear energy plants in the United States and around the world. As of 2015, ENEC’s Chief Executive Officer has been a member of the WANO Atlanta Center Governing Board, highlighting the UAE’s continued collaboration with the global nuclear community and the high standards of quality, safety and security that ENEC applies across all aspects of the UAE Program.