NRC Releases Contingency Plans in Case of Avian Flu Pandemic

From NRC:

The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission has released its 90-page plan outlining how the agency would maintain mission-essential and supporting functions during a possible flu pandemic that may cause staff absenteeism of 40 percent or more. The plan says the NRC would systematically "“shed"” lower priority work and take certain action ahead of time to better support staff during a pandemic, including enhanced telecommunications and stocking of hygiene supplies.

The pandemic plan complements the agency'’s existing Continuity of Operations Plan and reflects considerations provided by the Department of Homeland Security pandemic planning guidelines.

"“This is a plan that we hope we never have to implement,"” said NRC Commissioner Jeffrey Merrifield, who is taking a lead role in the review of the planning effort. "“But it is prudent to plan ahead and anticipate what actions might be needed and what prioritization of activities must be done in order for the NRC to maintain its essential, core mission of protecting public health and safety."”

Click here (PDF) for the public portion of the pandemic plan.

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