This Paper describes the NII's approach to the safety regulation of nu
clear power stations. The standard licence provides a flexible yet pow
erful regulatory tool which can be used for old or new plants. The emp
hasis of the standard licence on safety management, the initiatives in
relation to periodic safety reviews, radioactive waste strategy, deco
mmissioning and staffing matters all reflect NII's awareness of the sa
fety implications of an ageing programme.