80 years of nuclear safety in Canada

This year marks an important milestone in the history of nuclear regulation in Canada.

Eighty years ago, on October 12, 1946, the Atomic Energy Control Act was proclaimed, establishing the Atomic Energy Control Board (AECB) as Canada’s first federal agency with regulatory oversight of nuclear energy and materials.

In 2000, the Nuclear Safety and Control Act came into force, replacing the Atomic Energy Control Act, establishing the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC), and thereby providing a modern legislative framework for nuclear regulation in Canada.

Today, as Canada’s independent nuclear regulator, the CNSC is proud to build upon the foundation established in 1946.

As we commemorate 80 years of nuclear regulation in Canada, we recognize the dedication and expertise of the many people who have contributed to this important work and helped shape Canada’s nuclear regulatory framework to protect the health, safety and security of all people in Canada and the environment, not just for today, but for generations into the future.