ML020270008
| ML020270008 | |
| Person / Time | |
|---|---|
| Site: | Indian Point  |
| Issue date: | 03/01/2002 |
| From: | Meserve R NRC/Chairman |
| To: | Vanderhoef C |
| Milano, P , NRR/DLPM, 415-1457 | |
| References | |
| G20020020, LTR-02-0022, TAC MB3812, TAC MB3818 | |
| Download: ML020270008 (2) | |
Text
March 1, 2002 The Honorable C. Scott Vanderhoef County Executive, County of Rockland Allison-Parris County Office Building New City, New York 10956
Dear Mr. Vanderhoef:
I am responding on behalf of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) to your letter of November 28, 2001, in which you raise concerns about the security of the Indian Point Nuclear Generating Unit Nos. 2 and 3 (IP2 and 3). In particular, you are concerned about the adequacy of actions to protect the public in the event of a catastrophic attack by terrorists on the Indian Point plants. I apologize for my tardiness in responding; the receipt of your letter was delayed in the mail because NRC mail is processed in the Brentwood postal facility.
Since the September 11th terrorist attacks, the NRC has sought to ensure the adequate protection of the nations nuclear power plants, working in close coordination with the Office of Homeland Security, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), other intelligence and law enforcement agencies, the Federal Aviation Administration, United States military, State and local authorities, as well as with the operators of the plants. Although there have been no credible threats to any commercial nuclear facility in the United States, immediately following the September 11 attacks, the NRC advised plant operators to implement the highest level of security. All nuclear plants have complied with the NRC advisories, and continue to maintain heightened security. Moreover, on February 26, the NRC issued immediately effective Orders to all licensees mandating compensatory security measures. The details concerning the specific actions are sensitive and, therefore, cannot be discussed in a public document, but they generally include increased patrols, augmented security forces and capabilities, additional security posts, closer coordination with law enforcement and military authorities, and more limited access of personnel and vehicles to the sites.
The State of New York has further augmented the security at IP2 and 3 with National Guard personnel and periodic State police surveillance. Further, the New York State Office of Public Security (NYS OPS), working with various Federal and State agencies, including the FBI, has assessed the long-term security needs at IP2 and 3. The NYS OPS report made a number of recommendations to enhance security which the licensee has either implemented or is considering. The NRC continues to work with the other Federal and State agencies, and is monitoring all relevant information it receives on security matters at nuclear facilities. At the same time, the NRC and the Federal Emergency Management Agency have been working with NYS OPS, State Emergency Management Office, and other State and local agencies to enhance coordination involving security and emergency preparedness and planning.
In the wake of the September 11 attacks, I, with full support of the Commission, directed the NRC staff to undertake a top-to-bottom review of NRCs security regulations and
The Honorable C. S. Vanderhoef procedures, including the basic assumptions of NRCs current safeguards and physical security programs. The review will include the potential consequences of a similar attack on a nuclear power plant, assess threats and determine the best protection methods and the need for additional compensatory measures.
Nuclear power plants have inherent capability to protect public health and safety through such features as robust containment buildings, redundant safety systems, and highly trained operators. They are among the most hardened structures in the country and are designed to withstand extreme events, such as tornadoes and earthquakes. We do not believe that suspending the operation of the IP2 and 3 facility is necessary at this time to provide adequate protection of public health and safety. The NRC is actively monitoring the situation and is prepared to take measures to ensure the continued safety of all nuclear facilities.
I appreciate your concerns and hope that you find this information useful.
Sincerely,
/RA/
Richard A. Meserve