U.S. Perspectives on Nuclear Materials Safety

Abstract

Cooperation between the United States and Russia on radiochemical operational safety began at a meeting in September 1993. Since then, efforts to better understand and develop internationally acceptable nuclear materials safety practices have been gaining momentum. The persistence of the organizers of this and the previous workshop is a testament to your devotion to this extremely important issue. Although our countries have been dealing with nuclear materials for decades, international interest in their safe management has grown as our defense-related interactions have become more open and transparent. This initiative is particularly timely as we prepare to engage in expanded cooperation to manage tons of excess weapons-grade nuclear material so that it will never again be used in nuclear weapons. Many of you here today were involved in the development of the weapons complex. We must now rely on you to help reduce the stockpile of nuclear material. Each of us is intimately aware of the potential dangers associated with the treatment, storage, and disposition of excess high enriched uranium (HEU) and plutonium (Pu). As professionals and experts in our fields, we also know that we possess the knowledge, expertise, and vigilance to ensure that the ultimate disposition of this material is carried out in a safe, timely, and transparent manner.