CSA Group Standards Initiatives for Small Modular Reactors

Abstract

The CSA Nuclear Program helps promote a safe, reliable nuclear sector in Canada and strives to be a positive influence within the international nuclear power community. Standards-based solutions are recognized as important enablers for the safe, timely, and sustainable deployment of small modular reactors (SMRs) in Canada.

This paper introduces the CSA Nuclear Program and summarizes CSA initiatives for SMRs. Ongoing efforts to identify, prioritize, and evaluate standards applicability and gaps with SMR proponents and relevant standards development committees, led by the CSA Small Reactor Task Force, are described. Several key standards that address SMR requirements are also highlighted.

An overview of other CSA Nuclear Program strategic assessments relevant to SMRs is provided, including reviews of standards needs and impacts for advanced manufacturing and digitalization. Standards harmonization initiatives, which build upon a CSA Research Report on the role of standards in the deployment of SMRs, are also described.

Finally, upcoming SMR-related standardization activities and opportunities for sector stakeholders to participate are summarized.