An accident report should be filed with the NRC within what time frame after the incident is discovered?

Filing an accident report with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) within 30 days after the incident is crucial because it ensures timely communication and documentation of safety concerns and compliance with regulations. This 30-day timeframe allows for the necessary investigation and assessment of the incident's effects on safety and operational protocols.

Prompt reporting aids in the timely mitigation of hazards and enables regulatory bodies to monitor and respond effectively to potential risks to public safety and the environment. Adhering to this timeframe supports transparency and helps maintain industry accountability, as it allows for any necessary follow-up actions or investigations to begin while the data and circumstances surrounding the incident are still fresh.