Material Control and Accounting (MC&A)

Another essential component of nuclear material security is material control and accounting (MC&A). The fundamental objective of MC&A is to provide current information as to the nature, status and location of all nuclear materials within a facility. MC&A tools include computerized accounting systems, measurement systems, reporting systems and containment and surveillance systems.

Prior to cooperation in this area, INP recorded nuclear material locations, movements and transfers in a notebook. The Institute had no capability to measure the fuel items on-site. Material transfers were accepted verifying only the serial number on the fuel assembly, not its specific contents. As part of our cooperation, a fresh fuel measurement system was provided to enhance INP's capability to measure the isotopic composition of the fresh fuel items in the inventory. In addition, Australia provided the INP with a personal computer-based material accounting system and accounting software which enables personnel to accurately track the movement of nuclear materials, prepare general ledgers and inventory change reports.

To enhance the effectiveness of safeguards measures, tamper indication devices (TID) were provided to prevent unauthorized access to storage containers. E-Type seals replaced the wax seals the facility formerly used.