Factors Influencing the Nuclear Knowledge Loss Risk in Republic of Bulgaria: External Factors Overview

Abstract. In the recent years, personnel ageing, loss of critical knowledge and gaps in education and training are observed
worldwide. Nuclear knowledge preservation, transfer, and expansion are critical for sustaining viable nuclear power sector
and increasing nuclear applications’ usage in non-energy fields. Moreover, efficient knowledge management is paramount
for ensuring safe, reliable, and effective operation of nuclear facilities. Bulgaria possesses substantial experience and knowledge
in the nuclear power domain. Nuclear knowledge management approaches, however, are only partially applied. The
current paper analyses the external factors – demographics, workforce, education, and nuclear industry development – that
influence the risk of nuclear knowledge loss on a national level. The results of the current analysis would serve in further
risk analyses and would be useful for nuclear knowledge strategy development and implementation.