Reactor Safety Study

The Reactor Safety Study, also known as WASH-1400, was a 1972-75 report by the U.S. Atomic Energy Commission. It was the first to use probabilistic risk assessment (PRA) on a complex nuclear reactor system and compare nuclear risks to other events. The study aimed to identify components and accident scenarios most likely to cause severe accidents.

The study concluded that the risk of accidents causing widespread injury was extremely low for light-water reactors. However, these conclusions had significant quantitative uncertainties and faced challenges, as PRA results for very low risks are difficult to confirm with limited experience. Despite this, updated versions of the report remain a framework for nuclear risk assessment. The primary goal in reactor design is to prevent the release of radioactivity through preventive and mitigating measures.1