scope:

This instruction provides safety guidance pertaining to all nuclear weapon and nuclear weapon systems for which the DON has operational, custodial, or developmental responsibility. It also focuses on the accountability and responsibility of nuclear weapon capable operating units, and nuclear weapon systems safety, security, control, and reliability. Specific emphasis is placed on aggressively implementing and completing corrective actions when deficiencies are identified. References (c) and (d) define policy, responsibilities, and authorities for the safe, secure, and reliable stewardship of DON nuclear weapons and nuclear weapon systems.

Purpose. To implement the Department of Defense (DoD) Nuclear Weapon System Safety Program (NWSSP) described in reference (a) as required by reference (b), and to issue the overarching guidance for the Department of the Navy (DON) NWSSP per all applicable instructions, directives, and procedures found in references (c) through (t), and enclosures (2) through (8). This instruction incorporates changes from reference (a), adds guidance for conducting the quarterly Office of the Chief of Naval Operations (OPNAV) nuclear weapons safety council (NWSC) and annual nuclear weapons safety and schedule review, and updates OPNAV responsibilities to reflect current OPNAV staff structure. It has been substantially revised and should be reviewed in its entirety.

Applicability. This instruction applies to all U.S. Navy commands, activities, units, and forces having responsibility for custody, operations, life cycle support, development, acquisition, or security of nuclear weapons or nuclear weapon systems.