Nuclear lifting regulation case studies

Strengthening inspector and industry capability

We are strengthening our nuclear site health and safety (NSHS) capability to ensure we can effectively regulate the significant construction activities currently underway on Britain's nuclear licensed sites. We have done this through recruiting additional experts and upskilling our wider inspectorate, to ensure all inspectors regardless of specialism can identify NSHS risks and influence dutyholders to address them. 

To support this objective, our mechanical engineering specialism has collaborated with NSHS inspectors to develop a suite of training modules delivered through ONR’s Academy training programme. Of particular note are modules focusing on safe working at height and the interrelationship of mechanical engineering and NSHS in lifting operations.

Building on this internal collaboration, we have partnered with the Institute of Mechanical Engineers to deliver industry seminars highlighting the importance of NSHS in nuclear lifting activity, and regulatory expectations.

This initiative has been well received by internal and external stakeholders, as a way to reduce risks and incidents.

Using stakeholder input to evolve our guidance for inspectors

We continually refresh our guidance to keep pace with industry developments, regulatory requirements and strategic priorities. A recent update to Technical Assessment Guide (TAG) 056 on nuclear lifting introduced a new annex on wire ropes, alongside clarifications based on dutyholder feedback. This update exemplifies our collaborative approach and our confidence in our developing inspectors, who worked alongside stakeholders to create guidance that is highly relevant to the industry.

Our mechanical engineering inspectors undertook a meticulous review to ensure the TAG remains current and informative, while signposting users to complementary resources. Their approach included examining existing content for clarity and conciseness, ensuring alignment with legislation, and meeting accessibility standards. Although primarily designed for inspectors conducting regulatory activities, engagement with industry stakeholder groups confirmed the TAG's broader value and application. Rather than duplicating guidance available elsewhere, the TAG focuses on highlighting what matters most for nuclear lifting operations.

We place great value on being open to constructive comment from industry, and recognise the significant value the industry (including the National Nuclear Lifting Forum) places in this TAG. This commitment to listening and collaboration ensures that our guidance continues to serve regulatory and industry needs effectively.

Oversight of the Government's review of lifting regulations

The UK Government recognises that effective regulation serves as a vital shield for our society. It protects public health, keeps workers safe, maintains building standards, and ensures fair markets. These protections enable a thriving, productive workforce and give consumers and businesses the confidence to participate in our economy.

To ensure regulations around lifting also stimulate economic growth, the government has initiated a review of the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER) 1998. This process is also intended to reduce regulatory burden.

Our mechanical engineering specialists are working with counterparts at the Health and Safety Executive to ensure the review is balanced and retains essential safety elements. Though LOLER has been in force since 1998, both regulators and industry broadly consider it effective, while acknowledging there may be room for targeted improvements.

Our collaboration is focusing on which elements of LOLER should remain intact, as well as establishing a realistic timeframe for implementing any changes. Crucially, industry stakeholders will be actively involved throughout the process, ensuring that any proposed modifications receive appropriate scrutiny and acceptance from those most impacted.

Responding to industry trends in equipment selection

Dutyholders are increasing using off-the-shelf commercially available fit-for-purpose lifting equipment options, instead of more traditional bespoke options that are more bespoke, complex and often expensive. This shift has been motivated by the advantages gained in maintainability, spares availability and competitive pricing, but a balance must be found to ensure this new trend does not compromise standards.

Our mechanical engineering inspectors must judge the adequacy of solutions presented by dutyholders. A recent example is our permissioning of Devonport Royal Dockyard Limited's (DRDL) dock upgrade in readiness for the Astute type class submarine deep maintenance activity.

Our mechanical engineering inspector assessed and accepted DRDL’s graded approach to lifting, which categorises weights to be lifted into three distinct groups. Each group is assigned a type of lifting equipment proportionate to its safety risks. This approach has led to considerable dutyholder business benefits, with greater utilisation and diversity in the associated supply chain.