Which agency is typically responsible for overseeing nuclear facilities?

The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) is the agency responsible for the regulation of commercial nuclear power plants and other nuclear facilities in the United States. This organization ensures that these facilities operate safely and securely, protecting public health and the environment from the potential hazards associated with nuclear energy production.

The NRC develops regulations, conducts inspections, and implements licensing processes for all aspects of nuclear plant operation, including the management of radioactive materials. Its focus on safety oversight reflects its mission to ensure that the nation's commercial nuclear power plants are properly managed and maintained to prevent accidents and health risks associated with radiation exposure.

Other agencies, while important in their respective roles, do not directly oversee nuclear facilities in the way that the NRC does. For example, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) focuses on environmental protection and regulations regarding pollutants, while the Department of Energy (DOE) is involved in energy development and research, including nuclear energy, but does not regulate nuclear facilities. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) provides workplace safety standards, which may apply in nuclear settings, but it does not specifically oversee nuclear plant safety protocols as a primary function.