Order issued to Institut national de la recherche scientifique

July 9, 2026

The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) issued an order on July 9, 2026, to Institut national de la recherche scientifique (INRS), Énergie Matériaux Télécommunications research centre, based in Varennes, Québec.

This order directs INRS to cease all operation of the LS1 laser for the purpose of particle acceleration, an activity that requires prior licensing by the CNSC. Such a licence is required when the energy of the electron or ion beam reaches or exceeds 1 MeV.

The order was issued following a reactive inspection conducted on July 9, 2026. During the inspection, CNSC inspectors confirmed the presence of a laser-driven particle accelerator subject to licensing under the Nuclear Safety and Control Act. Although INRS holds 3 CNSC licences for laboratory studies, fixed gauges, and self-shielded irradiators, none of these licences authorizes the operation of a particle accelerator. The order was issued to ensure the health and safety of workers and the public.

Read the order (PDF)