Nuclear Security: A Synonym of Physical Protection or A Component of Nuclear and Radiation Safety?

The paper considers the question of implementing nuclear security into the area of nuclear energy use in Ukraine. The comparative analysis of international conventions, IAEA recommendations, national regulations on physical protection and nuclear security and legislative framework of Ukraine on physical protection was provided for this purpose. The research presents the trends and patterns in historical development of physical protection and nuclear security and their position in nuclear and radiation safety regulatory framework. IAEA recommendations on essential elements of nuclear security regime and practical knowledge on basic components of nuclear security and interface with nuclear safety in Ukraine are examined. Recommendations on promising ways of physical protection regime maintenance and nuclear security regime implementation in Ukraine, as well as proposals on development of first-priority regulatory documents on nuclear security are provided.