Nuclear security includes nuclear safety, radiation protection, the prevention of and fight against acts of malevolence, as well as civil protection activities in case of accident. The Ministry of Defence uses nuclear energy on some sites to power submarines and aircraft carriers, and strategic nuclear weapons. As such, the Department of Defence complies with the same standards and regulations as other operators to ensure nuclear security on a daily basis.
As the second largest user of French nuclear power, the Ministry of Defence monitors daily to ensure the safety of civilian and military professionals working on sites contributing to the sustainability of the nuclear deterrent.
Whether in maintaining its deterrent capability or designing nuclear reactors, the Ministry of Defence takes full account of the changes required for sustained preventive action.
Nuclear safety therefore entails a number of preventive measures.
On operational sites, these are incorporated and instituted at two levels: the provision of individual training but also the constant monitoring for potential technical and human errors.
As part of this day-to-day process, the Ministry of Defence Acts jointly with the Nuclear Safety Authority for Defence-related facilities and activities. (ASND). This ensures total independence from operators and is in accordance with its objective of transparency in public information.
The Representative in charge of Nuclear Safety and Radiation Protection for Defence-related Activities and Facilities is a key player in the regulation of nuclear safety, providing a genuine link between the Minister of Defence, the Minister of Industry and the government.
At national level, the Ministry of Defence is directly involved in all measures to protect the health of the population and workers.
On operational sites, it provides permanent safeguards for people and materials both inside and outside military areas.
Radiological protection for professionals in contact with nuclear weapons systems is subject to specific monitoring.
Aware of the risks and harmful effects of ionizing radiation, the Ministry of Defence informs and protects its workers on operational sites.
Particular attention is paid to compliance with standards (Euratom Directives) relating to the health protection of this group against the dangers involved.
Advised by the Nuclear Safety Authority for Defence-related facilities and activities, the Ministry of Defence assesses the health impact of a potential release of radioactive elements. In addition to providing information on expected reactions in case of incident or accident, the Ministry of Defence is directly involved in the organisation of government crisis management at national and local levels.
Ministry crisis management is based on a concentric division of responsibility plan.
To test its precautionary and planning guidelines, the Ministry of Defence conducts regular nuclear security exercises involving government professionals, as well as those employed by operators.