Why the NER Section of WNN?

In countries around the world, nuclear power operates in a civic context in which few people understand how the technology works. Nor is there wide public understanding of the real benefits and risks, in contrast to prevalent myths and misinformation.

Analysis of public opinion concerning nuclear power is now extensive and international. What emerges, far stronger than expressions of fear and scepticism, is a common sense of not knowing – coupled to an openness to learn and to be persuaded by factual argument.

Thus, the essential finding about public perception is a strong desire – which may reasonably be characterized as a public demand – to establish trust, transparency and understanding. These attributes must derive from openness, disclosure and education.

Nuclear Event Reports (NER) is intended to be a vehicle for the advancement of these purposes.

The world nuclear industry is a human enterprise. Whatever the sophistication of the technology, whatever the professionalism of the workforce, mistakes will be made and “incidents” – deviations from desired standards – will occur. The aim of the WNN’s Nuclear Event Reports section is to provide a window on this reality, in confidence that full accuracy, coupled to an effort to explain and fairly interpret, will serve the public interest.

Through meticulous recording of its actions, accompanied by continuous public scrutiny, the nuclear industry can steadily improve its record of safety performance – a record that many objective observers have found to be increasingly impressive.

NER seeks to promote this virtuous process.