Editorial: Understanding nuclear risks…and their control

There are over 400 nuclear reactors operating worldwide of which over 30 are in UK power stations. Describes the efforts made since Chernobyl to improve and control standards of safety in the UK’s nuclear plants. Discusses the Health and Safety Executive’s (HSE’s) stringent imposition of its requirement to reduce risks as far as reasonably practical. Looks at safety requirements for older UK nuclear installations and the initiatives of the HSE, through its Nuclear Installations Inspectorate, towards improving safety standards internationally.