The National Swedish Nuclear Power Inspectorate (SKI) and the Swedish Radiation Protection Institute (SSI) have been auditing SKB for many years. On 1 July 2008 these two authorities were merged to form a joint authority – the Swedish Radiation Safety Authority (SSM). Other important public authorities are the Swedish National Council for Nuclear Waste and the county administrative boards and municipalities affected by the nuclear facilities.
Regarding operation of the current facilities, SSM audits the safety of the facilities and the quality of our safety work.
Planning of future facilities, especially the final repository for spent nuclear fuel and the encapsulation facility, has been in progress for many years. SSM will audit the permit applications that were submitted in March 2011.
Compliance with Swedish Nuclear Activities Act
Every three years SKB is required to submit a RD&D programme (research, development and demonstration) to the government. This is in compliance with the Swedish Nuclear Activities Act, which stipulates a programme for research and development and other measures necessary for safe handling and final disposal of nuclear waste, as well as for the phase out and decommissioning of nuclear power plants. The most recent RD&D programme was submitted in 2010.
Role of media, environmental organisations
and the public
For over a decade specially appointed working groups in both Oskarshamn and Östhammar continuously follow up and audit SKB's work. The media also report frequently on nuclear waste issues. There is particular public interest from the municipalities being considered for a final repository. Scientific journals also have interest in our research intensive operations.
Environmental organisations, such as the Swedish NGO office for Nuclear Waste Review (MKG) which is financed by the Swedish Nuclear Waste Fund, take an active role in the nuclear waste debate. They also participate in seminars and in the RD&D programme referral work.