Monitoring

The means by which information is obtained for verification purposes. May be done remotely or on-site. It may seek to obtain a particular type of information or to detect any activity that is potentially noncompliant. (Handbook, p. 124)

Monitoring describes the process of observing the activities of the parties relevant to their obligations under an agreement. Depending on the specifics of the agreement, monitoring can be carried out unilaterally, cooperatively, or through some combination thereof. (Lexicon, p. 186)

Monitoring collects information with respect to the implementation of agreement provisions by the parties. The information obtained from monitoring is then analyzed and used to determine whether non-compliance has occurred. (Lexicon, p. 189-190)

Round-the-clock monitoring of a designated activity or facility. May use sensors and/or personnel. A typical example is portal monitoring. Used in the INF Treaty and START I and START II. The IAEA also uses continuous monitoring as part of its nuclear safeguards system. (Handbook, p. 118)