Effective national and global response arrangements and capabilities are essential to minimise the impacts from nuclear and radiological incidents and emergencies. The IAEA maintains the international Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR) framework, which is based on the international legal instruments.
The IAEA helps maintain and strengthen effective emergency preparedness and response capabilities on a national and international level. As part of these activities, it develops safety standards, guidelines and technical tools; assists Member States in building the capacity for emergency response; and maintains the IAEA Incident and Emergency System to efficiently implement its role in response to nuclear or radiological incidents and emergencies, regardless of whether they arise from accident, negligence or deliberate act.