Ulba Metallurgical Plant
Joint-Stock Company

Mission complete

30.09.2025

In early September, a comprehensive review mission from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) was conducted at the UMP. The purpose of the mission was to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the LEU Bank's operational and physical safety for compliance with IAEA safety standards and guidelines.

The mission was conducted in accordance with the IAEA methodology for "Safety Assessment of Fuel Cycle Facilities During Operation." In preparation for the mission, five online meetings were held, and UMP specialists also conducted a self-assessment of the safety aspects, including physical safety. The mission team included three IAEA staff members and three international experts. The mission was attended by the heads of the Committee for Atomic Surveillance and Control of the Atomic Energy Agency of the Republic of Kazakhstan, representatives of UMP, and the National Guard. During the mission, documents related to the safety and operation of the LEU Bank were reviewed, a walk-through was conducted, a discussion was held, and a report was prepared. The conclusion was that UMP has implemented all necessary safety measures, including physical safety, to ensure the protection of people and the environment. A number of recommendations and proposals were made for further improvement and enhancement of safety systems.

– The mission was very successful, we are pleased with the way the LEU Bank is functioning,” noted Mr. L. Valivety, the head of the IAEA mission team, at the final meeting.

The high level of preparation and conduct of the mission was also noted during the regular meeting of the Joint Coordinating Committee for the IAEA LEU Bank, held on September 17, with the participation of the leadership of the Atomic Energy Agency of the Republic of Kazakhstan.