The Differing Points of View between Citizens and Experts on Risk Management of Nuclear Facilities

An Analysis of the Risk Communication Activity in Tokai, Japan

Abstract

This analysis examines one of the risk communication activities that was implemented in the village of Tokai, Japan. It demonstrates how residents evaluate the safety measures and the safety culture of nuclear facilities through the "Citizen's Inspection" program; an inspection program devised and managed by volunteer residents interested in these activities. The results were determined after three inspections were conducted and suggest that even with a limited knowledge of nuclear safety, a motivated resident's point of view in evaluating the safety measures and the safety culture of nuclear facilities can contribute toward nuclear risk management.