Background on the UW-Madison Nuclear Reactor

For nearly 50 years, the research reactor at UW–Madison has been operated and maintained in a consistently safe and secure manner. Public research universities are by their nature open scholarly environments where knowledge is shared, and the research reactor lab at UW–Madison is no exception.

Research reactors such as those operated by UW–Madison are essential components of long-standing programs of research and education in nuclear engineering, engineering physics and many other disciplines. They permit students to gain hands-on, real-world experience to prepare for careers in industry, academic science and other fields. In research, reactors play an essential role in generating isotopes of medical importance, environmental assessment, trace element detection, archeology and efforts to design the next generation of reactors and reactor fuels. University research reactors are indispensable for maintaining our nation’s ability to compete in the fields of nuclear engineering and physics. Without them, there would be no opportunity to provide real-world training or to advance knowledge in those fields.

Recently, ABC News engaged in an exercise to probe security at research reactors around the country, including the reactor lab at UW–Madison. Two female interns, posing as interested prospective students, tried to gain direct access to the lab, but were turned away. Subsequently, they were able to reach the threshold of the lab when a door was opened by a student employee. Again, they were turned away but the interns were able to obtain images of the reactor from just inside the threshold of the lab. The university disagrees with the contention that the interns had any meaningful access to the laboratory or that their presence constituted a security threat.

The university frequently provides tours of the reactor lab. To gain access to tours, individuals must have their identities verified in advance and are escorted at all times. Bags are also routinely searched.

The UW reactor is of a type that is designed to automatically shut down in the event of an emergency and the reactor fuel is accessible only through a 40-foot-deep pool and is deployed in a way that would, by its nature, be lethal to anyone trying to remove it. The security plans in place at the reactor are routinely reviewed and updated, and are approved by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC). The NRC also regularly conducts unannounced security audits of the facility in an effort to ensure that plans are up to date and in effect.

In the post-Sept. 11 world, the university understands the need to be aware and prepared for many different contingencies. The security plan for the research reactor has been altered accordingly, undergoes regular review, and represents an appropriate level of security. We are confident in the plan and the ability of various campus units, including the UW Police Department, to maintain the high level of security the reactor lab requires while, at the same time, ensuring that the lab fulfills its prescribed academic mission.

Related materials

High-resolution, downloadable images of the facility

More detailed facts on the Reactor Lab and its academic mission