An International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) team of experts concluded that Bulgaria is committed to maintaining a high level of nuclear and radiation safety. The mission, conducted from November 17 to 29, was part of the Integrated Regulatory Review Service (IRRS) program, which assessed Bulgaria’s national regulatory framework for nuclear, radiation, radioactive waste, and transport safety. The review was at the request of the Bulgarian government and hosted by the Bulgarian Nuclear Regulatory Agency (BNRA) and the Ministry of Health (MoH).
On Friday, IAEA stated that the IAEA team found that Bulgaria’s regulatory system is comprehensive and robust, covering all relevant facilities and activities. However, the team recommended the adoption of a national safety policy and strategy aligned with IAEA safety standards to further enhance the effectiveness of the regulatory framework.
IRRS team leader, Zia Hussain Shah, Director General of Pakistan's Nuclear Regulatory Authority, acknowledged Bulgaria’s mature and competent regulatory infrastructure but emphasized the need to prepare for the anticipated expansion of the country’s nuclear power program. The team suggested several areas for improvement, particularly in radiation protection, especially in the medical sector.
Bulgaria plans to construct two new nuclear units at the Kozloduy Nuclear Power Plant (NPP), which currently provides 40% of the country's electricity. During the mission, the team visited various facilities, including Kozloduy NPP and several radiation-related companies, and met with officials to review the effectiveness of the country’s nuclear safety measures.
The mission highlighted several strengths in Bulgaria’s nuclear safety practices, such as proactive public communication, extensive radiation The IAEA team also recommended that BNRA conduct independent assessments of its safety culture and leadership and that the MoH develop guidelines for the release of patients post-therapy involving radioactive procedures.
Tsanko Bachiyski, Chairman of BNRA, expressed gratitude to the IRRS team and reaffirmed Bulgaria’s commitment to enhancing nuclear safety. He noted that the outcomes of the mission would help strengthen the country’s regulatory capabilities and national safety infrastructure.
The final report from the IRRS team will be submitted to the Bulgarian government in approximately three months, with the expectation that the recommendations will guide future improvements in the regulatory framework for nuclear and radiation safety in Bulgaria.
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
