DOE Proposes Changes to Its Worker Safety and Health Regulations

What: On January 21, 2026, the U.S. Department of Energy Office of Nuclear Energy (DOE) published a proposed rule to amend its worker safety and health regulations. The proposed rule is intended to expedite the review, approval, and deployment of advanced nuclear reactors under DOE’s jurisdiction, including qualified test reactors in DOE’s reactor pilot program, while maintaining protections for workers at DOE sites.

Why: DOE explains that existing requirements were developed around traditional DOE nuclear facilities and can create uncertainty or delay when applied to newer advanced reactor designs and demonstration projects. The proposed rule would revise certain provisions to better align with current and anticipated advanced reactor designs and operating models, and to streamline DOE’s internal processes for approving safety documentation for such projects.

DOE states that the proposed rule will not reduce worker protections and is not expected to impose significant new compliance burdens on contractors, including small entities. However, small businesses that perform work at DOE nuclear facilities or participate in DOE advanced reactor projects could be indirectly affected if changes in safety documentation, approval processes, or contractual requirements alter project schedules, reporting expectations, or internal safety management systems.

Small entities should carefully review the proposed revisions to determine whether any new or clarified responsibilities would require updates to training, procedures, or hazard analyses, and are encouraged to provide detailed cost and operational information in their comments so DOE can consider whether additional flexibilities, phase?in periods, or alternative approaches are warranted to minimize any disproportionate impact.

Action: Review the proposed rule and submit comments before the February 20, 2026, deadline.

PROPOSED RULE: 

Worker Safety and Health Requirements to Support Reform of Nuclear Reactor Testing

CONTACT: 

Shanerika Flemings

EMAIL: 

shanerika.flemings@sba.gov