Directorate of Regulatory Affairs (RAD) was established on March 20, 2004 with the following job responsibilities:
1. National Reports under International Conventions
2. National Reports to GoP and International Conventions
3. Coordination with GoP, Autonomous/Semi-autonomous Bodies, National Institutes, Organizations
4. Self assessment of regulatory effectiveness
5. Development of realistic Performance Indicators and program for improving performance
6. Development of quality policy, quality management manual and low level procedures
7. Follow-up of IRRT

National Reports under International Conventions

The Government of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan has been according the highest priority to safety. As part of its policy on nuclear safety matters, Pakistan was an early signatory to the Convention on Nuclear Safety (CNS). Pakistan signed CNS on 20 September, 1994, ratified it on 30 September, 1997. Until now 55 Contracting Parties have ratified the Convention.

The Third National Report was submitted in 2004, which updates the Second National Report. Pakistan has fulfilled all its obligations under the Convention. Regulations and practices are generally in compliance with the obligations of Pakistan under the Convention.

Coordination with GoP, Autonomous/Semi-autonomous Bodies, National Institutes, Organizations

One of the job assignments of the Directorate of Regulatory Affairs (RAD) is to liaise and co-ordinate with governmental and non-governmental bodies to improve its regulatory performance. PNRA has a close working relationship with the respective ministries and organizations so that they are aware of regulatory activities and help PNRA in the enhancement of nuclear safety through out Pakistan. In addition PNRA also stays abreast of the legislative and government policies that may affect its regulation of nuclear activities and facilities.

Self assessment of regulatory effectiveness

One of the tasks assigned to Directorate of Regulatory Affairs is the “Self Assessment of Regulatory Effectiveness” for the enhancement of the regulatory performance which is documented in the Annual Performance Review Reports.

Development of realistic Performance Indicators and program for improving performance

PNRA endeavours to ensure that an acceptable level of safety is maintained at all nuclear installations in the country. PNRA verifies the performance of the licence holder through reviews, assessments, and inspection during all phases of plant life.
Safety Performance Indicators are a useful tool for assessing the safety of a Nuclear Power Pant. Realizing its usefulness Directorate of Regulatory Affairs on behalf of Pakistan Nuclear Regulatory Authority looks after this program in order to develop a process for assessing licensee’s regulatory and safety performance. Performance indicators together with regulatory inspections, provide data to assess licensee performance in the safety significant areas.

Follow-up of IAEA International Regulatory Review Team IRRT

The need for openness and transparency in regulating nuclear installations/facilities is increasingly recognized worldwide, which is necessary to build public and other stakeholder’s confidence and trust in the regulatory process. In view of this PNRA invited the IAEA International Regulatory Review Team (IRRT) during 1-12 December 2003, to review PNRA’s regulatory performance against international standards. The IRRT report No. IAEA-TCR-02028 is available on PNRA website.