Nuclear Energy Act (NEA) (NEA)
English is not an official language of the Swiss Confederation. This translation is provided for information purposes only and has no legal force.
Art. 4 Principles governing the use of nuclear energy
1 When using nuclear energy, humans and the environment must be protected against danger due to ionising radiation. Only harmless quantities of radioactive substances may be released into the environment. Special care must be taken to prevent the release of impermissible quantities of radioactive substances and to protect humans against impermissible levels of radiation during normal operation and accidents. 2 Long-term impacts on genetic material must be taken into account. 3 In order to prevent harm to humans and the environment, precautionary measures must be taken that: a. are required in accordance with experience and the state of art in science and technology; b. contribute towards an additional reduction of risk insofar as they are appropriate.
Art. 5 Preventive and protective measures
1 When designing, constructing and operating nuclear installations, preventive and protective measures must be taken in accordance with internationally accepted principles. These measures shall include the use of high-quality components, safety barriers, multiple and automated safety systems, the formation of a suitable organisation with qualified personnel, and the fostering of a strong safety awareness. 2 Preparation must be made for the implementation of emergency protection measures to limit the extent of damage in the event that dangerous quantities of radioactive substances should be released into the environment. 3 Security measures must be taken in order to prevent any interference with the safety of nuclear installations and nuclear materials through unauthorised acts or the theft of nuclear materials. 3bis The classification and processing of information are governed by the provisions of the legislation on information security in the Confederation. 4 The Federal Council shall
Para. 3 — Amended by Annex 1 No 14 of the Information Security Act of 18 Dec. 2020, in force since 1 Jan. 2024 (AS 2022 232; 2023 650; BBl 2017 2953). Para. 3bis — Inserted by Annex 1 No 14 of the Information Security Act of 18 Dec. 2020, in force since 1 Jan. 2024 (AS 2022 232; 2023 650; BBl 2017 2953).