Sustainability Management System Model for Operating Organizations of Research Reactors

Abstract

Operating organizations of research reactors are using management system models based on international standards of International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), which do not include aspects of sustainability in their context. This article aims to identify the corporate sustainability requirements to be inserted in the management systems proposed by ISO and IAEA, specifically for operating organizations of research reactors. In this article we present a management system model for operating organizations of research reactors, based on a sustainability approach. For this purpose, applicable management system and sustainability standards are considered in this analysis. Four principles of sustainable development were introduced: inclusivity, integrity, stewardship and transparency. A sustainable development maturity matrix, which determines the position of the organization along a path of sustainable development was also presented. In a country like Brazil, where nuclear activity is geared towards peaceful purposes, any operating organization of research reactor should emphasize its commitment to social, environmental, economic and institutional aspects. Social aspects includes research and development, production and supply of radiopharmaceuticals, radiation safety, specialized training for the nuclear sector. Environmental aspects include control of the surroundings and knowledge directed towards environment preservation. Economic aspects include import substitution and diversification of production. Institutional aspects include technology, innovation and knowkedge. These aspects, if considered in the management system of an operating organization of research reactor, will help with its long-term maintenance and success in an increasingly competitive market scenario.