NRC Approves ASME Code Cases to Streamline Nuclear Safety Options
Published Date: 9/26/2025
Rule
Summary
The NRC is giving a thumbs-up to special ASME code cases that nuclear power plants can choose to follow instead of some usual rules. This makes it easier and more flexible for plants to keep things safe and up to date. If you work at or run a nuclear plant, you can start using these new options right away without extra costs or delays.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Nuclear licensees may use ASME code cases
If you run or apply to run a nuclear power plant, you may choose to use American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) unconditioned code cases as voluntary alternatives to the engineering standards in the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code and ASME Operation and Maintenance of Nuclear Power Plants. The NRC amended its regulations to incorporate by reference a regulatory guide that approves those unconditioned code cases, so licensees can rely on them instead of some usual rules for plant components.
Immediate use allowed without added delays
The rule lets nuclear power plant applicants and licensees start using the approved ASME unconditioned code cases right away without extra costs or delays. This means the new voluntary options are available immediately as incorporated into the NRC regulations.
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