FANR chief reviews safety oversight at Barakah Nuclear Power Plant

Abu Dhabi, UAE: Hamad Al Kaabi, Director-General of the Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (FANR), has visited the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant to review regulatory oversight activities and assess the facility’s operational status.During the visit, Al Kaabi was briefed on the operation of all four units at the plant, including planned refuelling outages and ongoing maintenance activities.Commitment to safety and oversightThe visit underscored FANR’s continued commitment to ensuring the safe, secure and peaceful operation of the UAE’s nuclear energy programme through independent and robust regulatory oversight.Al Kaabi also met with teams involved in responding to a recent incident at the facility, commending their adherence to established safety, security and emergency preparedness protocols.Strong response and coordinationHe praised the high level of coordination and professionalism demonstrated by the teams, noting that their response contributed to maintaining the safety of the plant while protecting workers, the public and the environment.Al Kaabi said the response reflects the strength and resilience of the UAE’s nuclear regulatory and operational framework, aligned with international standards and best practices.On-site regulatory presenceDuring the visit, the Director-General met with FANR’s team of eight resident inspectors stationed permanently at Barakah. He reaffirmed the importance of maintaining a strong on-site regulatory presence to monitor operations and ensure compliance.He also directed inspection teams to continue their oversight activities across all operational conditions.Comprehensive inspection programmeFANR maintains a comprehensive inspection regime at the Barakah facility, covering nuclear safety, security, radiation protection and safeguards.The authority said these measures are designed to verify compliance with the UAE’s regulatory framework and international standards, reinforcing confidence in the safety and reliability of the country’s nuclear energy programme.