IRSN, the french Institute for Radioprotection and Nuclear Safety

IRSN (Institut de radioprotection et de sûreté nucléaire) is the public body in charge of the scientific assessment of nuclear and radiation risks. It is mandated for advising the public authorities and contributing to public policies, for developing the research activities necessary to support its scientific appraisal and for delivering services to industry and other organisations.

The key fields of research relate to safety of nuclear installations and waste, to severe accidents in nuclear reactors and emergency preparedness, to radioactivity and ecosystems and to radiation protection. National and international partnerships are preferred to develop scientific knowledge.

IRSN support to public policies and regulation concerns mainly radiation protection, reactors, plants, laboratories, transport and waste safety, protection and control of nuclear and sensitive materials. IRSN also develops a specific organisation devoted to management of emergencies due to a nuclear crisis.