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​A European framework for the use of nuclear energy under all its forms (nuclear energy, medical applications, industrial applications, etc.)

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Published on 3 May 2022

This framework is mainly based on two chapters of the treaty, chapter 3 on health protection and safety and chapter 7 on safeguards.

 This framework takes the following forms:

  • ►   drafting at Community level of a directive setting standards for the health protection of the population and workers against the dangers resulting from ionizing radiation (so-called "basic standards" directive);
  • ►   verification by the European Commission of the operation and efficiency of the facilities necessary to carry out continuous monitoring of the level of radioactivity in the air, water and soil and to ensure compliance with the basic standards ;
  • ►   examination for opinion by the European Commission of the files provided by the Member States on the  general data relating to any plan for the disposal of radioactive waste in whatever form to determine whether the implementation of such plan is liable to result in the radioactive contamination of the water, soil or airspace of another Member State;
  • ►   verification of declarations on the use of nuclear materials, in particular through detailed accounts kept by nuclear operators;

►   verification that the provisions relating to supply and any commitment relating to control entered into by the European Atomic Energy Community in an agreement concluded with a third State or an international organization are respected.

The special case of nuclear safety

The Euratom Treaty does not contain any chapter dedicated to nuclear safety. However, on the basis of Chapter 3 (health protection), it’s been possible to negotiate a directive on nuclear safety and a directive on the management of spent fuel and radioactive waste (“Joint Convention”).

The Euratom Treaty was able to cope with these new fields without it being necessary to modify it.

This openness was made while ensuring that the spirit of the treaty was preserved. Likewise, all international principles in the field of safety must be respected. This also applies to the principle of the independence of the national nuclear safety authority.