Human Factors and New Nuclear: Advancements and Future Possibilities

After years of stagnation, interest in the development and construction of new nuclear power facilities is accelerating. Some of the proposed designs, such as small modular reactors and microreactors, are significantly different from the plants currently in operation. Therefore, much of the nuclear human factors knowledge acquired over the last 40 years may not be easily transferrable to these plants. At the same time, other kinds of human factors research, such as work on high-levels of automation and remote operation, become increasingly relevant. This panel aims to provide guidance for human factors practitioners in this shifting landscape by gathering experts with backgrounds in research, regulation, and operations.