RIS 2002-12L, Panoramic and Underwater Irradiator Licensees NRC Threat Advisory and Protective Measures System: Difference between revisions

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| issue date = 06/05/2003
| issue date = 06/05/2003
| title = Panoramic and Underwater Irradiator Licensees NRC Threat Advisory and Protective Measures System
| title = Panoramic and Underwater Irradiator Licensees NRC Threat Advisory and Protective Measures System
| author name = Miller C L
| author name = Miller C
| author affiliation = NRC/NMSS/IMNS
| author affiliation = NRC/NMSS/IMNS
| addressee name =  
| addressee name =  
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| page count = 13
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{{#Wiki_filter:SAFEGUARDS INFORMATION - MODIFIED HANDLINGSAFEGUARDS INFORMATION - MODIFIED HANDLING
{{#Wiki_filter:SAFEGUARDS INFORMATION - MODIFIED HANDLING
Warning:  Violation of Section 147 of theAtomic Energy Act of 1954, "SafeguardsInformation" is subject to Civil or Criminal
SAFEGUARDS INFORMATION - MODIFIED HANDLING
Warning:  Violation of Section 147 of the Atomic Energy Act of 1954, "Safeguards Information" is subject to Civil or Criminal penalties.


penalties.Document transmitted herewith contains Safeguards Information.  When separated from enclosure 3, this document is Decontrolled.UNITED STATESNUCLEAR REGULATORY COMMISSIONOFFICE OF NUCLEAR MATERIALS SAF3TY AND SAFEGUARDSWASHINGTON. D.C. 20555-0001June 5, 2003NRC REGULATORY ISSUE SUMMARY 2002-12LPANORAMIC AND UNDERWATER  IRRADIATOR LICENSEESNRC THREAT ADVISORY AND PROTECTIVE MEASURES SYSTEM
Document transmitted herewith contains Safeguards Information.  When separated from enclosure 3, this document is Decontrolled.
 
UNITED STATES
NUCLEAR REGULATORY COMMISSION
OFFICE OF NUCLEAR MATERIALS SAF3TY AND SAFEGUARDS
WASHINGTON. D.C. 20555-0001 June 5, 2003 NRC REGULATORY ISSUE SUMMARY 2002-12L
PANORAMIC AND UNDERWATER  IRRADIATOR LICENSEES
NRC THREAT ADVISORY AND PROTECTIVE MEASURES SYSTEM


==ADDRESSEES==
==ADDRESSEES==
All Panoramic and Underwater Irradiator Licensees
All Panoramic and Underwater Irradiator Licensees  


==INTENT==
==INTENT==
The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC or Commission) is issuing this RegulatoryIssue Summary (RIS) to inform addressees of changes to the descriptions of the various threat advisory conditions and provide guidance that addressees may use in preplanning graded protective measures to respond to changes in the threat environment.  It is noted that a RIS is generally used to communicate with the nuclear industry on a variety of matters for which no response or action is required.  This RIS communicates actions the NRC considers appropriate at each threat level.  In the interest of expediency, the Commission has determined that issuance of this RIS is the most efficient mechanism to align the Department of Homeland Security, NRC, and licensee expectations with respect to licensees' response to threat advisories.
The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC or Commission) is issuing this Regulatory Issue Summary (RIS) to inform addressees of changes to the descriptions of the various threat advisory conditions and provide guidance that addressees may use in preplanning graded protective measures to respond to changes in the threat environment.  It is noted that a RIS is generally used to communicate with the nuclear industry on a variety of matters for which no response or action is required.  This RIS communicates actions the NRC considers appropriate at each threat level.  In the interest of expediency, the Commission has determined that issuance of this RIS is the most efficient mechanism to align the Department of Homeland Security, NRC, and licensee expectations with respect to licensees response to threat advisories.


==BACKGROUND==
==BACKGROUND==
The Office of Homeland Security (OHS) developed a Homeland Security Advisory System(HSAS) to provide a comprehensive and effective system to disseminate information regarding the risk of terrorist attacks to Federal, State, and local authorities and the public.  The HSAS
The Office of Homeland Security (OHS) developed a Homeland Security Advisory System (HSAS) to provide a comprehensive and effective system to disseminate information regarding the risk of terrorist attacks to Federal, State, and local authorities and the public.  The HSAS
implements Homeland Security Presidential Directive 3, March 11, 2002, as amended by Homeland Security Presidential Directive 5, February 28, 2003.  This new system includes five color-coded threat conditions with a description of corresponding actions at each level.  These conditions are:Green (Low Condition) Low risk of terrorist attackBlue (Guarded Condition) General risk of terrorist attackYellow (Elevated Condition) Significant risk of terrorist attackOrange (High Condition) High risk of terrorist attackRed (Severe Condition) Severe risk of terrorist attack SAFEGUARDS INFORMATION - MODIFIED HANDLINGSAFEGUARDS INFORMATION - MODIFIED HANDLING
implements Homeland Security Presidential Directive 3, March 11, 2002, as amended by Homeland Security Presidential Directive 5, February 28, 2003.  This new system includes five color-coded threat conditions with a description of corresponding actions at each level.  These conditions are:
2DISCUSSIONThe HSAS provides a consistent national framework for allowing government officials andcitizens to communicate the nature and degree of terrorist threats.  The advisory system characterizes appropriate levels of vigilance, preparedness, and readiness for each threat condition and describes associated actions that should be taken to counter and respond to terrorist activities.In declaring threat conditions, the Secretary of Homeland Security in consultation with theAttorney General, members of the Homeland Security Council, and any other appropriate federal agency heads, will consider, but not be limited to, the following factors:To what degree is the threat information credible?To what degree is the threat information corroborated?To what degree is the threat specific and/or imminent?How grave are the potential consequences of the threat?To what degree is the target vulnerable to the threat?HSAS advisories regarding threat conditions may be declared for the entire nation or for aspecific geographical area, or functional or industrial sector, and will be sent to local, State, and Federal government agencies as appropriate.  In general, the threat conditions escalate as the likelihood or imminence of an attack increases.Although the threat condition will be determined by the Secretary of Homeland Security, theNRC has the obligation under Presidential Homeland Security Directive 3 to establish the appropriate protective measures for facilities under its regulatory authority.  In addition, the NRC has the obligation to respond to risks, threats, incidents, and events at NRC-regulated facilities, or involving NRC-regulated materials, including radioactive material possessed by organizations licensed by Agreement States when necessary to promote the common defense and security.Upon a declaration of an HSAS threat condition, the NRC will promptly notify affected NRC andAgreement State licensees and the affected Agreement States of the threat condition and of the appropriate protective measures.  In addition, the NRC may find it appropriate to notify affected licensees to establish certain protective measures in the absence of an HSAS

declaration.  The NRC could take such a step, for example, to respond to an emergency or a site-specific situation. The NRC is using this RIS to announce its threat advisory and protective measures system toimplement the HSAS for panoramic and underwater irradiator licensees.  The NRC will relay information relating to the threat conditions using the color-coded system defined by the HSAS.
Green (Low Condition)
  Low risk of terrorist attack

Blue (Guarded Condition)
  General risk of terrorist attack

Yellow (Elevated Condition)
  Significant risk of terrorist attack

Orange (High Condition)
  High risk of terrorist attack

Red (Severe Condition)
  Severe risk of terrorist attack
 
SAFEGUARDS INFORMATION - MODIFIED HANDLING
SAFEGUARDS INFORMATION - MODIFIED HANDLING
2 DISCUSSION
The HSAS provides a consistent national framework for allowing government officials and citizens to communicate the nature and degree of terrorist threats.  The advisory system characterizes appropriate levels of vigilance, preparedness, and readiness for each threat condition and describes associated actions that should be taken to counter and respond to terrorist activities.
 
In declaring threat conditions, the Secretary of Homeland Security in consultation with the Attorney General, members of the Homeland Security Council, and any other appropriate federal agency heads, will consider, but not be limited to, the following factors:

To what degree is the threat information credible?

To what degree is the threat information corroborated?

To what degree is the threat specific and/or imminent?

How grave are the potential consequences of the threat?

To what degree is the target vulnerable to the threat?
HSAS advisories regarding threat conditions may be declared for the entire nation or for a specific geographical area, or functional or industrial sector, and will be sent to local, State, and Federal government agencies as appropriate.  In general, the threat conditions escalate as the likelihood or imminence of an attack increases.
 
Although the threat condition will be determined by the Secretary of Homeland Security, the NRC has the obligation under Presidential Homeland Security Directive 3 to establish the appropriate protective measures for facilities under its regulatory authority.  In addition, the NRC has the obligation to respond to risks, threats, incidents, and events at NRC-regulated facilities, or involving NRC-regulated materials, including radioactive material possessed by organizations licensed by Agreement States when necessary to promote the common defense and security.
 
Upon a declaration of an HSAS threat condition, the NRC will promptly notify affected NRC and Agreement State licensees and the affected Agreement States of the threat condition and of the appropriate protective measures.  In addition, the NRC may find it appropriate to notify affected licensees to establish certain protective measures in the absence of an HSAS
declaration.  The NRC could take such a step, for example, to respond to an emergency or a site-specific situation.
 
The NRC is using this RIS to announce its threat advisory and protective measures system to implement the HSAS for panoramic and underwater irradiator licensees.  The NRC will relay information relating to the threat conditions using the color-coded system defined by the HSAS.


The NRC has also defined protective measures in five levels, which generally correlate with the five color-coded conditions of the HSAS.  Protective measures at each level build upon the actions defined in the lower levels.  For example, measures at level III will include those measures taken at levels I and II.
The NRC has also defined protective measures in five levels, which generally correlate with the five color-coded conditions of the HSAS.  Protective measures at each level build upon the actions defined in the lower levels.  For example, measures at level III will include those measures taken at levels I and II.


SAFEGUARDS INFORMATION - MODIFIED HANDLINGSAFEGUARDS INFORMATION - MODIFIED HANDLING
SAFEGUARDS INFORMATION - MODIFIED HANDLING
3The level I (Low) protective measures, which generally correspond to the greenthreat condition, are considered to be the routine level of operation and are satisfied by licensees maintaining the security programs required by the regulations, individual licenses, and Orders.  Measures to enhance security need to be available so that they can be readied or implemented in higher threat conditions when called upon. The level II (Guarded) protective measures, which generally correspond to theblue threat condition, warrant more action by the licensees, but will generally not involve significant action beyond the routine level of operation.  These actions would typically relate to readiness, e.g., notifying personnel to standby, or bringing in additional security officers to prepare for an enhanced response.
SAFEGUARDS INFORMATION - MODIFIED HANDLING
3

The level I (Low) protective measures, which generally correspond to the green threat condition, are considered to be the routine level of operation and are satisfied by licensees maintaining the security programs required by the regulations, individual licenses, and Orders.  Measures to enhance security need to be available so that they can be readied or implemented in higher threat conditions when called upon.
 

The level II (Guarded) protective measures, which generally correspond to the blue threat condition, warrant more action by the licensees, but will generally not involve significant action beyond the routine level of operation.  These actions would typically relate to readiness, e.g., notifying personnel to standby, or bringing in additional security officers to prepare for an enhanced response.
 
Actions taken at level II will include those taken at level I.


Actions taken at level II will include those taken at level I.The level III (Elevated) protective measures, which generally correspond to theyellow threat condition, warrant enhanced security measures and additional resources, perhaps on a sustained basis, but would be based on hardware and personnel already at the licensee

's disposal.  (Note:  When the HSAS was firstannounced on March 12, 2002, OHS also announced that the country was then considered to be in a Yellow threat condition.)  Actions taken at level III will include those taken at levels I and II.The level IV (High) protective measures, which generally correspond to theorange threat condition, assume that the licensee
The level III (Elevated) protective measures, which generally correspond to the yellow threat condition, warrant enhanced security measures and additional resources, perhaps on a sustained basis, but would be based on hardware and personnel already at the licensees disposal.  (Note:  When the HSAS was first announced on March 12, 2002, OHS also announced that the country was then considered to be in a Yellow threat condition.)  Actions taken at level III will include those taken at levels I and II.
's security organization is at itshighest sustainable level and that the licensee will request augmentation by local and State, and possibly Federal, resources to provide additional defensive capabilities to the extent such resources can be made available.  (Note: NRC
advisories will provide additional specific information to the licensee(s) as information about the threat develops.  Any additional licensee actions will be based upon threat specific information).  Actions taken at level IV will include those taken at levels I, II, and III.The level V (Severe) protective measures, which generally correspond to the redthreat condition, assume that the licensee will request augmentation by Federal resources beyond State and local resources to provide additional defensive capabilities to the extent such resources can be made available to enhance the security of the facility.  NRC will facilitate implementation of this added Federal presence.  (Note: It is expected that this condition will be limited to one or a very small number of licensees for a limited period of time.  Any additional specific actions will be based on an ongoing assessment of the threat by the NRC and other Federal agencies.)  Actions taken at level V will include those taken at levels I, II, III, and IV.


SAFEGUARDS INFORMATION - MODIFIED HANDLINGSAFEGUARDS INFORMATION - MODIFIED HANDLING

4When a change in threat condition that affects NRC and Agreement States
The level IV (High) protective measures, which generally correspond to the orange threat condition, assume that the licensees security organization is at its highest sustainable level and that the licensee will request augmentation by local and State, and possibly Federal, resources to provide additional defensive capabilities to the extent such resources can be made available.  (Note: NRC
' licensees, the NRCwill issue a threat advisory notifying its licensees and Agreement States of the change.  The NRC will refer licensees to the recommended protective measures outlined in the table attached to this RIS.  Regardless of the current threat condition, licensees are required to comply with existing regulations, licenses, and Orders.  The table is designed to provide a clear description of the basic actions appropriate to achieve the desired level of protection.  The NRC
advisories will provide additional specific information to the licensee(s) as information about the threat develops.  Any additional licensee actions will be based upon threat specific information).  Actions taken at level IV will include those taken at levels I, II, and III.
may tailor the protective measures to be implemented based on the nature of the threat, including specific instructions regarding protection against a specific mode of attack.In some cases, the circumstances of a particular threat may warrant that additional securitymeasures be implemented beyond those provided in the attached table.  For example, such additional measures may be necessary depending upon the type of licensee affected, the security risks associated with various licensed activities, the specific vulnerabilities at a given site, the suspected mode of attack, and the likelihood and nature of the threat.  Although most terrorist attacks occur without specific warning, whenever possible, the NRC will provide information about the nature and projected time frame of the threat.The protective measures in the attached table are assigned to particular threat levels, reflectingthe seriousness of the threat and the need for timely action to address the threat.  Therefore, prompt implementation of the measures is essential if the steps are to be effective in protecting the facility.The Commission may need to direct additional measures to deal with a fast-moving situation inthe transition period before a formal declaration of a threat escalation.  HSPD-3 states that agency heads
"retain the authority to respond, as necessary, to risks, threats, incidents, orevents at facilities within the specific jurisdiction of their department or agency.


" In these cases,the NRC threat advisory will include additional specific guidance beyond what is generically prescribed in the tables for a particular threat level.NRC will update the table enclosed with this RIS as necessary to reflect changes in protectivemeasures for various threat levels and to reflect results from its ongoing comprehensive review of security matters.  In addition, this RIS will be reviewed at least once a year and revised as necessary consistent with requirements to report changes to the Department of Homeland Security by August 1 of each year.  Licensees seeking to provide input to the RIS and possible revisions should forward comments to the contact listed below.

The level V (Severe) protective measures, which generally correspond to the red threat condition, assume that the licensee will request augmentation by Federal resources beyond State and local resources to provide additional defensive capabilities to the extent such resources can be made available to enhance the security of the facility.  NRC will facilitate implementation of this added Federal presence.  (Note: It is expected that this condition will be limited to one or a very small number of licensees for a limited period of time.  Any additional specific actions will be based on an ongoing assessment of the threat by the NRC and other Federal agencies.)  Actions taken at level V will include those taken at levels I, II, III, and IV.
 
SAFEGUARDS INFORMATION - MODIFIED HANDLING
SAFEGUARDS INFORMATION - MODIFIED HANDLING
4 When a change in threat condition that affects NRC and Agreement States licensees, the NRC
will issue a threat advisory notifying its licensees and Agreement States of the change.  The NRC will refer licensees to the recommended protective measures outlined in the table attached to this RIS.  Regardless of the current threat condition, licensees are required to comply with existing regulations, licenses, and Orders.  The table is designed to provide a clear description of the basic actions appropriate to achieve the desired level of protection.  The NRC
may tailor the protective measures to be implemented based on the nature of the threat, including specific instructions regarding protection against a specific mode of attack.
 
In some cases, the circumstances of a particular threat may warrant that additional security measures be implemented beyond those provided in the attached table.  For example, such additional measures may be necessary depending upon the type of licensee affected, the security risks associated with various licensed activities, the specific vulnerabilities at a given site, the suspected mode of attack, and the likelihood and nature of the threat.  Although most terrorist attacks occur without specific warning, whenever possible, the NRC will provide information about the nature and projected time frame of the threat.
 
The protective measures in the attached table are assigned to particular threat levels, reflecting the seriousness of the threat and the need for timely action to address the threat.  Therefore, prompt implementation of the measures is essential if the steps are to be effective in protecting the facility.
 
The Commission may need to direct additional measures to deal with a fast-moving situation in the transition period before a formal declaration of a threat escalation.  HSPD-3 states that agency heads retain the authority to respond, as necessary, to risks, threats, incidents, or events at facilities within the specific jurisdiction of their department or agency. In these cases, the NRC threat advisory will include additional specific guidance beyond what is generically prescribed in the tables for a particular threat level.
 
NRC will update the table enclosed with this RIS as necessary to reflect changes in protective measures for various threat levels and to reflect results from its ongoing comprehensive review of security matters.  In addition, this RIS will be reviewed at least once a year and revised as necessary consistent with requirements to report changes to the Department of Homeland Security by August 1 of each year.  Licensees seeking to provide input to the RIS and possible revisions should forward comments to the contact listed below.


===FEDERAL REGISTER NOTIFICATION===
===FEDERAL REGISTER NOTIFICATION===
A notice of opportunity for public comment was not published in the Federal Register becausethis RIS is informational.  The Commission also plans to issue additional Regulatory Issue Summaries in this series to cover additional classes of licensees, or NRC-licensed activities, as
A notice of opportunity for public comment was not published in the Federal Register because this RIS is informational.  The Commission also plans to issue additional Regulatory Issue Summaries in this series to cover additional classes of licensees, or NRC-licensed activities, as NRCs review progresses.  Any specific comments should be forwarded to the contact listed below.
 
SAFEGUARDS INFORMATION - MODIFIED HANDLING
SAFEGUARDS INFORMATION - MODIFIED HANDLING
5
 
===PAPERWORK REDUCTION ACT STATEMENT===
This RIS does not request any information collection; therefore, this RIS is not subject to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 3501, et seq.)
If you have any questions about this matter, please telephone or e-mail the technical contact listed below.


NRC's review progresses. Any specific comments should be forwarded to the contact listedbelow.
/RA/
Charles L. Miller, Director Division of Industrial and Medical Nuclear Safety Office of Nuclear Materials Safety and Safeguards Contact:
Frederick C. Sturz, NSIR/DNS
301-415-6678, fcs@nrc.gov Charles Cox, NMSS/IMNS
301-415-6755, cxc5@nrc.gov Richard L. Blanton, STP
301-415-2322, rlb@nrc.gov Enclosures:
(1) HSPD-3, Homeland Security Advisory System
(2) HSPD-5, Management of Domestic Incidents
(3) Threat Conditions and Specific Actions for Panoramic and Underwater Irradiator Licensees


SAFEGUARDS INFORMATION - MODIFIED HANDLINGSAFEGUARDS INFORMATION - MODIFIED HANDLING
SAFEGUARDS INFORMATION - MODIFIED HANDLING
5
SAFEGUARDS INFORMATION - MODIFIED HANDLING
6


===PAPERWORK REDUCTION ACT STATEMENT===
===PAPERWORK REDUCTION ACT STATEMENT===
This RIS does not request any information collection; therefore, this RIS is not subject to thePaperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 3501, et seq.)If you have any questions about this matter, please telephone or e-mail the technical contactlisted below./RA/Charles L. Miller, DirectorDivision of Industrial and Medical Nuclear Safety Office of Nuclear Materials Safety and SafeguardsContact:Frederick C. Sturz, NSIR/DNS301-415-6678, fcs@nrc.govCharles Cox, NMSS/IMNS301-415-6755, cxc5@nrc.govRichard L. Blanton, STP301-415-2322, rlb@nrc.govEnclosures:(1) HSPD-3, Homeland Security Advisory System(2) HSPD-5, Management of Domestic Incidents
This RIS does not request any information collection; therefore, this RIS is not subject to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 3501, et seq.)
(3) Threat Conditions and Specific Actions for Panoramic and Underwater Irradiator Licensees SAFEGUARDS INFORMATION - MODIFIED HANDLINGSAFEGUARDS INFORMATION - MODIFIED HANDLING
If you have any questions about this matter, please telephone or e-mail the technical contact listed below.
6


===PAPERWORK REDUCTION ACT STATEMENT===
/RA/
This RIS does not request any information collection; therefore, this RIS is not subject to thePaperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 3501, et seq.)If you have any questions about this matter, please telephone or e-mail the technical contactlisted below./RA/Charles L. Miller, DirectorDivision of Industrial and Medical Nuclear Safety Office of Nuclear Materials Safety and SafeguardsContact:Frederick C. Sturz, NSIR/DNS301-415-6678, fcs@nrc.govCharles Cox, NMSS/IMNS301-415-6755, cxc5@nrc.govRichard L. Blanton, STP301-415-2322, rlb@nrc.govEnclosures:(1) HSPD-3, Homeland Security Advisory System(2) HSPD-5, Management of Domestic Incidents
Charles L. Miller, Director Division of Industrial and Medical Nuclear Safety Office of Nuclear Materials Safety and Safeguards Contact:
(3) Threat Conditions and Specific Actions for Panoramic and Underwater Irradiator Licensees* See Previous Concurrence Accession No. ML031350757OFFICEIMNSNSIRNSIRIMNSOGCNAMECCox*FSturz*GSmith*TEssig*JGoldberg*DATE05/28/2003 05/14/200305/28/2003 06/03/200305/30/2003OFFICENSIRIMNSNAMEGTracy*CMiller*DATE06/02/200306/03/2003   /    /   /      /
Frederick C. Sturz, NSIR/DNS
301-415-6678, fcs@nrc.gov Charles Cox, NMSS/IMNS
301-415-6755, cxc5@nrc.gov Richard L. Blanton, STP
301-415-2322, rlb@nrc.gov Enclosures:
(1) HSPD-3, Homeland Security Advisory System
(2) HSPD-5, Management of Domestic Incidents
(3) Threat Conditions and Specific Actions for Panoramic and Underwater Irradiator Licensees
* See Previous Concurrence Accession No. ML031350757 OFFICE
IMNS
NSIR
NSIR
IMNS
OGC
NAME
CCox*
FSturz*
GSmith*
TEssig*
JGoldberg*
DATE
05/28/2003
05/14/2003
05/28/2003
06/03/2003
05/30/2003 OFFICE
NSIR
IMNS
NAME
GTracy*
CMiller*
DATE
06/02/2003
06/03/2003
    /    /
    /      /
     /    /
     /    /
}}
}}


{{RIS-Nav}}
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Latest revision as of 09:49, 16 January 2025

Panoramic and Underwater Irradiator Licensees NRC Threat Advisory and Protective Measures System
ML031350757
Person / Time
Issue date: 06/05/2003
From: Chris Miller
NRC/NMSS/IMNS
To:
References
RIS-02-012L
Download: ML031350757 (13)
v • d • e


SAFEGUARDS INFORMATION - MODIFIED HANDLING

SAFEGUARDS INFORMATION - MODIFIED HANDLING

Warning: Violation of Section 147 of the Atomic Energy Act of 1954, "Safeguards Information" is subject to Civil or Criminal penalties.

Document transmitted herewith contains Safeguards Information. When separated from enclosure 3, this document is Decontrolled.

UNITED STATES

NUCLEAR REGULATORY COMMISSION

OFFICE OF NUCLEAR MATERIALS SAF3TY AND SAFEGUARDS

WASHINGTON. D.C. 20555-0001 June 5, 2003 NRC REGULATORY ISSUE SUMMARY 2002-12L

PANORAMIC AND UNDERWATER IRRADIATOR LICENSEES

NRC THREAT ADVISORY AND PROTECTIVE MEASURES SYSTEM

ADDRESSEES

All Panoramic and Underwater Irradiator Licensees

INTENT

The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC or Commission) is issuing this Regulatory Issue Summary (RIS) to inform addressees of changes to the descriptions of the various threat advisory conditions and provide guidance that addressees may use in preplanning graded protective measures to respond to changes in the threat environment. It is noted that a RIS is generally used to communicate with the nuclear industry on a variety of matters for which no response or action is required. This RIS communicates actions the NRC considers appropriate at each threat level. In the interest of expediency, the Commission has determined that issuance of this RIS is the most efficient mechanism to align the Department of Homeland Security, NRC, and licensee expectations with respect to licensees response to threat advisories.

BACKGROUND

The Office of Homeland Security (OHS) developed a Homeland Security Advisory System (HSAS) to provide a comprehensive and effective system to disseminate information regarding the risk of terrorist attacks to Federal, State, and local authorities and the public. The HSAS

implements Homeland Security Presidential Directive 3, March 11, 2002, as amended by Homeland Security Presidential Directive 5, February 28, 2003. This new system includes five color-coded threat conditions with a description of corresponding actions at each level. These conditions are:



Green (Low Condition)

Low risk of terrorist attack



Blue (Guarded Condition)

General risk of terrorist attack



Yellow (Elevated Condition)

Significant risk of terrorist attack



Orange (High Condition)

High risk of terrorist attack



Red (Severe Condition)

Severe risk of terrorist attack

SAFEGUARDS INFORMATION - MODIFIED HANDLING

SAFEGUARDS INFORMATION - MODIFIED HANDLING

2 DISCUSSION

The HSAS provides a consistent national framework for allowing government officials and citizens to communicate the nature and degree of terrorist threats. The advisory system characterizes appropriate levels of vigilance, preparedness, and readiness for each threat condition and describes associated actions that should be taken to counter and respond to terrorist activities.

In declaring threat conditions, the Secretary of Homeland Security in consultation with the Attorney General, members of the Homeland Security Council, and any other appropriate federal agency heads, will consider, but not be limited to, the following factors:



To what degree is the threat information credible?



To what degree is the threat information corroborated?



To what degree is the threat specific and/or imminent?



How grave are the potential consequences of the threat?



To what degree is the target vulnerable to the threat?

HSAS advisories regarding threat conditions may be declared for the entire nation or for a specific geographical area, or functional or industrial sector, and will be sent to local, State, and Federal government agencies as appropriate. In general, the threat conditions escalate as the likelihood or imminence of an attack increases.

Although the threat condition will be determined by the Secretary of Homeland Security, the NRC has the obligation under Presidential Homeland Security Directive 3 to establish the appropriate protective measures for facilities under its regulatory authority. In addition, the NRC has the obligation to respond to risks, threats, incidents, and events at NRC-regulated facilities, or involving NRC-regulated materials, including radioactive material possessed by organizations licensed by Agreement States when necessary to promote the common defense and security.

Upon a declaration of an HSAS threat condition, the NRC will promptly notify affected NRC and Agreement State licensees and the affected Agreement States of the threat condition and of the appropriate protective measures. In addition, the NRC may find it appropriate to notify affected licensees to establish certain protective measures in the absence of an HSAS

declaration. The NRC could take such a step, for example, to respond to an emergency or a site-specific situation.

The NRC is using this RIS to announce its threat advisory and protective measures system to implement the HSAS for panoramic and underwater irradiator licensees. The NRC will relay information relating to the threat conditions using the color-coded system defined by the HSAS.

The NRC has also defined protective measures in five levels, which generally correlate with the five color-coded conditions of the HSAS. Protective measures at each level build upon the actions defined in the lower levels. For example, measures at level III will include those measures taken at levels I and II.

SAFEGUARDS INFORMATION - MODIFIED HANDLING

SAFEGUARDS INFORMATION - MODIFIED HANDLING

3



The level I (Low) protective measures, which generally correspond to the green threat condition, are considered to be the routine level of operation and are satisfied by licensees maintaining the security programs required by the regulations, individual licenses, and Orders. Measures to enhance security need to be available so that they can be readied or implemented in higher threat conditions when called upon.



The level II (Guarded) protective measures, which generally correspond to the blue threat condition, warrant more action by the licensees, but will generally not involve significant action beyond the routine level of operation. These actions would typically relate to readiness, e.g., notifying personnel to standby, or bringing in additional security officers to prepare for an enhanced response.

Actions taken at level II will include those taken at level I.



The level III (Elevated) protective measures, which generally correspond to the yellow threat condition, warrant enhanced security measures and additional resources, perhaps on a sustained basis, but would be based on hardware and personnel already at the licensees disposal. (Note: When the HSAS was first announced on March 12, 2002, OHS also announced that the country was then considered to be in a Yellow threat condition.) Actions taken at level III will include those taken at levels I and II.



The level IV (High) protective measures, which generally correspond to the orange threat condition, assume that the licensees security organization is at its highest sustainable level and that the licensee will request augmentation by local and State, and possibly Federal, resources to provide additional defensive capabilities to the extent such resources can be made available. (Note: NRC

advisories will provide additional specific information to the licensee(s) as information about the threat develops. Any additional licensee actions will be based upon threat specific information). Actions taken at level IV will include those taken at levels I, II, and III.



The level V (Severe) protective measures, which generally correspond to the red threat condition, assume that the licensee will request augmentation by Federal resources beyond State and local resources to provide additional defensive capabilities to the extent such resources can be made available to enhance the security of the facility. NRC will facilitate implementation of this added Federal presence. (Note: It is expected that this condition will be limited to one or a very small number of licensees for a limited period of time. Any additional specific actions will be based on an ongoing assessment of the threat by the NRC and other Federal agencies.) Actions taken at level V will include those taken at levels I, II, III, and IV.

SAFEGUARDS INFORMATION - MODIFIED HANDLING

SAFEGUARDS INFORMATION - MODIFIED HANDLING

4 When a change in threat condition that affects NRC and Agreement States licensees, the NRC

will issue a threat advisory notifying its licensees and Agreement States of the change. The NRC will refer licensees to the recommended protective measures outlined in the table attached to this RIS. Regardless of the current threat condition, licensees are required to comply with existing regulations, licenses, and Orders. The table is designed to provide a clear description of the basic actions appropriate to achieve the desired level of protection. The NRC

may tailor the protective measures to be implemented based on the nature of the threat, including specific instructions regarding protection against a specific mode of attack.

In some cases, the circumstances of a particular threat may warrant that additional security measures be implemented beyond those provided in the attached table. For example, such additional measures may be necessary depending upon the type of licensee affected, the security risks associated with various licensed activities, the specific vulnerabilities at a given site, the suspected mode of attack, and the likelihood and nature of the threat. Although most terrorist attacks occur without specific warning, whenever possible, the NRC will provide information about the nature and projected time frame of the threat.

The protective measures in the attached table are assigned to particular threat levels, reflecting the seriousness of the threat and the need for timely action to address the threat. Therefore, prompt implementation of the measures is essential if the steps are to be effective in protecting the facility.

The Commission may need to direct additional measures to deal with a fast-moving situation in the transition period before a formal declaration of a threat escalation. HSPD-3 states that agency heads retain the authority to respond, as necessary, to risks, threats, incidents, or events at facilities within the specific jurisdiction of their department or agency. In these cases, the NRC threat advisory will include additional specific guidance beyond what is generically prescribed in the tables for a particular threat level.

NRC will update the table enclosed with this RIS as necessary to reflect changes in protective measures for various threat levels and to reflect results from its ongoing comprehensive review of security matters. In addition, this RIS will be reviewed at least once a year and revised as necessary consistent with requirements to report changes to the Department of Homeland Security by August 1 of each year. Licensees seeking to provide input to the RIS and possible revisions should forward comments to the contact listed below.

FEDERAL REGISTER NOTIFICATION

A notice of opportunity for public comment was not published in the Federal Register because this RIS is informational. The Commission also plans to issue additional Regulatory Issue Summaries in this series to cover additional classes of licensees, or NRC-licensed activities, as NRCs review progresses. Any specific comments should be forwarded to the contact listed below.

SAFEGUARDS INFORMATION - MODIFIED HANDLING

SAFEGUARDS INFORMATION - MODIFIED HANDLING

5

PAPERWORK REDUCTION ACT STATEMENT

This RIS does not request any information collection; therefore, this RIS is not subject to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 3501, et seq.)

If you have any questions about this matter, please telephone or e-mail the technical contact listed below.

/RA/

Charles L. Miller, Director Division of Industrial and Medical Nuclear Safety Office of Nuclear Materials Safety and Safeguards Contact:

Frederick C. Sturz, NSIR/DNS

301-415-6678, fcs@nrc.gov Charles Cox, NMSS/IMNS

301-415-6755, cxc5@nrc.gov Richard L. Blanton, STP

301-415-2322, rlb@nrc.gov Enclosures:

(1) HSPD-3, Homeland Security Advisory System

(2) HSPD-5, Management of Domestic Incidents

(3) Threat Conditions and Specific Actions for Panoramic and Underwater Irradiator Licensees

SAFEGUARDS INFORMATION - MODIFIED HANDLING

SAFEGUARDS INFORMATION - MODIFIED HANDLING

6

PAPERWORK REDUCTION ACT STATEMENT

This RIS does not request any information collection; therefore, this RIS is not subject to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 3501, et seq.)

If you have any questions about this matter, please telephone or e-mail the technical contact listed below.

/RA/

Charles L. Miller, Director Division of Industrial and Medical Nuclear Safety Office of Nuclear Materials Safety and Safeguards Contact:

Frederick C. Sturz, NSIR/DNS

301-415-6678, fcs@nrc.gov Charles Cox, NMSS/IMNS

301-415-6755, cxc5@nrc.gov Richard L. Blanton, STP

301-415-2322, rlb@nrc.gov Enclosures:

(1) HSPD-3, Homeland Security Advisory System

(2) HSPD-5, Management of Domestic Incidents

(3) Threat Conditions and Specific Actions for Panoramic and Underwater Irradiator Licensees

  • See Previous Concurrence Accession No. ML031350757 OFFICE

IMNS

NSIR

NSIR

IMNS

OGC

NAME

CCox*

FSturz*

GSmith*

TEssig*

JGoldberg*

DATE

05/28/2003

05/14/2003

05/28/2003

06/03/2003

05/30/2003 OFFICE

NSIR

IMNS

NAME

GTracy*

CMiller*

DATE

06/02/2003

06/03/2003

/ /

/ /

/ /

"L" can not be assigned to a declared number type with value 12.

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