Certified Healthcare Safety Professional (CHSP) Practice Exam

Which entity is responsible for licensing and regulating nuclear power plants?

1. Nuclear Regulatory Commission

2. Radiation Safety Officer

3. Environmental Protection Agency

4. Nuclear Energy Agency

The correct answer is: Nuclear Regulatory Commission

The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) is the entity responsible for licensing and regulating nuclear power plants in the United States. This agency operates under federal law and its primary role is to ensure the safety and security of the nation's radioactive materials, including those used in nuclear power generation. The NRC sets strict standards for the design, operation, and decommissioning of nuclear facilities, conducting regular inspections and assessments to enforce compliance with safety regulations. While the Radiation Safety Officer plays a vital role in managing radiation protection and safety protocols within an organization, their function does not extend to the licensing of nuclear power plants. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) focuses on environmental regulation and protection but does not have the authority to license nuclear facilities. The Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA), an intergovernmental agency, provides a platform for collaboration among member countries on nuclear issues, but it does not have direct regulatory authority over individual nuclear power plants.