3.2. The operator8 might be a single organization or one of a number of organizations involved, depending on the approach taken in the State. The safety requirements for the planning of a disposal facility apply to those elements that have to be in place prior to the development of the disposal facility, with the purpose of ensuring safety in the operational period and after closure.
8) In the IAEA safety standards, ‘operator’ means any organization or person applying for authorization or authorized and/or responsible for nuclear, radiation, radioactive waste or transport safety when undertaking activities or in relation to any nuclear facilities or sources of ionizing radiation. This includes, inter alia, private individuals, governmental bodies, consignors or carriers, licensees, hospitals, self-employed persons, etc.