Work Item
ASTM WK95655
New Guide for Security by Design in Advanced and Small Modular Reactors
1. Scope
1.1 This guide will serve as a single "go-to" document for designers, vendors, constructors, and other stakeholders of advanced and small modular reactors (A/SMR) that will: 1.1.1 Explain the concept of security by design (SeBD); convey the need for SeBD and the risks of not adequately addressing security needs early in the design phase; 1.1.2 Provide agreed-upon definitions for the key terms and concepts used in SeBD; 1.1.3 Enable vendors to develop an integrated security system that contains design features needed to mitigate the risk of sabotage of facilities or theft of materials. 1.2 This guide uses a performance-based approach for identifying features during the A/SMR design process that will result in a robust and fit-for-purpose approach for physical protection systems, cyber security, insider threat mitigation, and nuclear material accounting and control. Checklists will be included to facilitate identification of needed features and how they will be implemented. 1.3 This guide does not address requirements for safety systems but recognizes that security systems need to work together with safety systems to ensure that security and safety systems are effective and not in conflict. 1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. 1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.Keywords
Nuclear reactors; Threat mitigation; Physical protection; Cyber securityRationale
The United States and other countries intend to develop and deploy advanced and small modular reactors (A/SMR) as part of an overall strategy to triple nuclear energy capacity globally by 2050. Security considerations for A/SMR differ from those of traditional nuclear power plants (NPPs). Because A/SMR use fewer on-site personnel than traditional NPPs, there could be an increased vulnerability of A/SMRs to threat or sabotage. This standard will serve as a one-stop guidance document to address security needs early in the design process.
Work Item Status
Date Initiated: 07-09-2025
Technical Contact: Michael Brisson
Item: 000
Ballot:
Status: