Legal Frameworks

Legal frameworks in the nuclear field are sets of special, legally binding rules created to regulate the conduct of entities engaged in nuclear activities. Nuclear activities are those which relate to fissionable materials, ionising radiation and exposure to natural sources of radiation. The rules aim to ensure the protection of persons, property and the environment from the hazards associated with nuclear activities. Today, virtually all activities involved in the nuclear fuel cycle are subject to national and international legal frameworks to some degree. At the national level, a legal framework is normally founded on legislation (including regulations), while at the international level it is comprised of one or more legally binding international instruments such as treaties, conventions and agreements. 