Breadcrumbs navigation
During the week commencing 20 May, the third annual international gathering of specialists dedicated to the qualification of for operation in the challenging environment of nuclear power plants — the 3rd International Equipment Qualification in Nuclear Installations Meeting — took place at our Conference Centre. Thanks to its consistently engaging content and excellent organisation, the event has become an important hub for professionals from across the globe.
The idea to exchange technical experience, present current challenges and strengthen personal connections within this specialised community originated within the Division of Integrity and Technical Engineering, in the Department of Radiation Chemistry and Environmental Qualification. The department head, Vít Plaček, is not only the mastermind behind the event but also a highly committed organiser and leader. Thanks to his enthusiasm and the invaluable organisational support of his colleague, Dominik Dragoun, the EQ Meeting has become one of the most prestigious professional events of its kind, not only within Europe but worldwide. Its high standing is also evidenced by the regular patronage of the conference by the International Atomic Energy Agency in Vienna.
The inaugural event in 2019 demonstrated the enormous interest from specialists around the world in this format and subject matter. This year’s edition filled the capacity of the Conference Centre to capacity – even despite the relatively high registration fee, which enables the division to cover the costs of the event itself as well as an attractive accompanying programme. Once again, there was significant interest from commercial sponsors wishing to present. Many participants from power plants, international organisations, research bodies, regulatory authorities, component manufacturers and testing laboratories attend regularly; in fact, the first registrant for this year’s event signed up more than half a year in advance. Among the eighty or so experts, there were also “newcomers” sent by their home organisations to seek out crucial information and contacts.
The presentations covered the entire equipment qualification process – from initial inputsto implementation and maintenance. Discussions addressed requirements for service properties, as well as the conditions of testing laboratories and suppliers, and the need to ensure quality during testing, manufacturing and component installation. New research and development needs for this field were also identified during the sessions. In both the introductory section and the thematic blocks, we had ample opportunity to showcase our own activities and services, thereby creating potential for further equipment qualification contracts. The programme also included tours of our onsite facilities.
The four-day programme was packed, yet the organisation ran smoothly throughout. Breaks and the social part of the agenda provided plenty of time for personal meetings and informal discussions. This benefit is, in fact, one of the aspects that sets EQ Meeting apart from standard scientific conferences and is always highly valued by participants. As for the future, the next edition is already scheduled for the week commencing 18 May 2026.
