Document: NRC Regulatory Guide
Document ID: a094549d-8685-4dad-b90f-c28c7d279a53
Document Type: regulatory_guide
Title: Geologic and Geotechnical Site Characterization Investigations for Nuclear Power Plants + HISTORY – HISTORY 08/2021 – DG-1392 , Proposed Revision 3 07/2014 – Periodic Review of Revision 2 – Reviewed with no issues identified 02/2001 – DG-1101 , Proposed Revision 2 (Rev. 3)
Source: NRC Regulatory Guide Division 1
Source URL: https://www.nrc.gov/docs/ML2119/ML21194A176.pdf
Revision Date: 2023-05
Chapter: 
Section ID: RG-1.132
CFR Part: 
CFR Title: 

Content:
irement. However, licensees and applicants may consider and use the information in the secondary reference, if appropriately justified, consistent with current regulatory practice, and consistent with applicable NRC requirements. DG-1392, Page 8 C. STAFF REGULATORY GUIDANCE 1. General Requirements A well-planned program of site exploration should be conducted using a phased approach that progresses from a literature search and reconnaissance investigations to detailed site investigations, construction mapping, and final as-built data compilation to provide a strong basis for site suitability determination and foundation design and construction. The actual site investigation program should be tailored to the specific conditions of the site and based on sound professional judgment. The site investigation program should be flexible and modified when needed, as the site investigation proceeds based on the provisions and criteria of the project. Site investigations for nuclear power plants should be adequate in terms of thoroughness, suitability of methods used, quality of execution of the work, and documentation to permit an accurate determination of the geologic and geotechnical conditions that affect the design, performance, and safety of the plant. The investigations should provide information needed to perform engineering analyses and design the plant with reasonable assurance that the geologic and geotechnical conditions and associated uncertainties have been appropriately determined and considered. This guide considers techniques available at the date of issuance. As science advances, useful procedures, standards, and equipment should be included as they are developed and accepted by the profession. 2. Types of Data to Be Acquired 2.1 Geologic Characteristics Geologic characteristics include, but are not limited to, the following: • Lithology and other distinguishing features of rock units at the surface and in the subsurface. Depositional and tectonic