Developing Guidance Documents

A variety of circumstances, such as expanding on regulatory requirements or responding to industry changes and innovations, factor into the development of a guidance document.

To ensure content integrity and soundness of information, the guidance document development process at the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) involves the following steps:

1. Drafting the guidance document:

CNSC technical experts prepare the draft guidance document for an extensive review by CNSC technical and legal personnel.

2. Consulting with stakeholders:

The consultation process for draft guidance documents take place in two steps:

• Consultation: The draft guidance document is posted to the CNSC Web site. The public, licensees and interested organizations are invited to comment on the regulatory document. Information sessions may also be held.
• Invitation to provide feedback on comments received: Comments are posted on the CNSC Web site. All stakeholders have an opportunity to view the comments received during the first consultation and provide additional feedback.

3. Reviewing comments received and revising the draft guidance document:

Once the consultation period has ended, public comments are reviewed, assessed and considered in revising the draft guidance document.

• A Consultation Report, which includes comments received, is compiled.

4. Publishing the guidance document:

All published guidance documents are posted on the CNSC Web site. Paper copies are available upon request by contacting the CNSC or by sending an e-mail to publications@cnsc-ccsn.gc.ca.