Self-assessment is the evaluation process performed by the operating organizations, with the assistance of external agencies and consultants as needed, to identify and correct safety and security problems that hinder the achievement of the organization's safety and security objectives. The end result of self-assessment activities may be risk reduction strategies that include changes and upgrades to the nuclear facility. This is considered to be the first step of a more formal review (e.g. regulatory review) by an external organization ( IAEA Glossary 2014).