Nuclear regulators reject easier safety rules for old reactor designs

US nuclear regulators have denied a request to relax safety standards for existing nuclear power plants. This means plant operators must continue to meet current dose limits for radiation exposure during accidents.

The nuclear industry wanted to update how it calculates potential radiation exposure during accidents, using newer methods that might have shown lower risks. This would have made it easier to operate older plants or make certain modifications. The denial means the current, stricter safety calculations remain in place, keeping the regulatory bar high for existing facilities.