Atomic Workers Recognition Program

Canada places the highest priority on health, safety and environmental protection in all aspects of the nuclear industry. Indeed, workers in Canada’s nuclear industry have always been dedicated to ensuring the health and safety of Canadians and the environment.

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This dedication is exemplified by the actions of Atomic Energy of Canada Limited (AECL) employees who bravely responded to nuclear incidents at Chalk River Laboratories in 1952 and 1958.

In the 1950s, Ontario’s Chalk River Laboratories was one of the leading global sites for cutting-edge atomic science of the time. In 1952 and 1958, there were incidents that required AECL and Department of National Defence (DND) personnel to contain and cleanup contaminated sites. Approximately 1,500 civilians participated in the cleanups of both incidents.

The lessons learned from these events helped AECL science and technology workers to develop even safer and cleaner nuclear technologies, culminating in the highly successful CANDU reactors that have provided safe, reliable power in countries all around the world for decades.

In acknowledgement of their exceptional service to the nation in a time of crisis, each eligible individual received a certificate for extraordinary service to Canada to recognize the Atomic Worker. Those who were eligible also received a one-time ex gratia payment of $28,500.

Eligibility

AECL employees and those contracted by AECL who played an important role in either of the two major cleanup efforts at Chalk River Laboratories were eligible.

If the individual was no longer living, applications from their estate, primary beneficiary or primary caregiver were considered.

Results

Over $11,635,000 in ex gratia payments disbursed

412

applications approved for ex gratia payments

67

ex gratia payments to living atomic workers

345

Applications approved for ex gratia payments to atomic workers’ estates, primary beneficiaries or primary caregivers

Nuclear energy in Canada

Following the incidents in the 1950s, AECL and its workers went on to develop the CANDU reactor technology. It has been a major source of safe, clean and reliable nuclear power in Ontario since the 1970s, currently producing 60 percent of Ontario’s energy.

Learn more

• Nuclear energy and uranium
• The Nuclear Liability and Compensation Act