In order to obtain a license, a powerplant must provide detailed information to show that its design, construction, and operation will ensure sage conditions for workers and the public. The NRC conducts routine inspections and investigates any accidents, unusual incidents, or even claims of unusual events that may occur during powerplant operation. Resident inspectors at each nuclear powerplant observe and monitor licensee activities and respond to operational events at the plant. Violations of NRC requirements call for corrective actions and may result in heavy fines, plant closure, or suspending or revoking of the utility's operating license. Control of Radioactive Material Releases Releases of radioactive materials from nuclear powerplants could have harmful effects on people and the environment.
Scientists measure radiation's effect on humans in units called rems.
However, measuring the radiation emitted from powerplants in rems is like measuring the dimensions of a desktop in miles. It can be done, but it is not very practical. The average American receives about 360 millirem of radiation each year from both natural and man-made sources. About 55 percent of this radiation comes from radon-a radioactive gas from the decay of naturally occurring uranium and thorium. The remaining portion comes from the earth's soil, food, and water, and from medical applications.