Uranium

Uranium is a naturally occurring radioactive element that is mined and processed in order to make fuel for nuclear research reactors or power reactors. Canada is one of the world's largest producers of uranium.

The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) regulates and licenses all operating and future uranium mining and milling operations, as well as all uranium processing and fuel fabrication facilities in Canada.

CNSC oversight also covers decommissioned sites of these operations. The CNSC performs all of its activities in order to protect the health, safety and security of Canadians and the environment.

Uranium mines and mills

• Regulating uranium mines and mills
• Licensing process
• CNSC compliance activities
• Operating uranium mine and mills
• Proposed uranium mines and mills
• Uranium mines and mills waste
• Uranium mines and mills decommissioning

Uranium fuel processing and fabrication

• Uranium fuel processing and fabrication facilities
• Map of uranium processing and fuel fabrication facilities

The CNSC undertakes its oversight in accordance with the comprehensive requirements of the Nuclear Safety and Control Act and its related regulations.

This work includes the annual reporting on the safety performance of Canadian uranium and nuclear processing facilities.

Many people live or work in communities close to these operations. Consultation with the public, licensees and interested organizations, including the communities near these operations, is also an important part of the regulatory process.

Find out how to get involved in CNSC decisions on uranium mines, mills, and processing and fuel fabrication facilities.