- Site: Winfrith
- IR number: 19-103
- Date: October 2019
- LC numbers: N/A
Executive summary
Purpose of Intervention
This was a planned inspection of Inutec Ltd, undertaken as part of the planned intervention strategy for the Sellafield, Decommissioning, Fuel and Waste Division (SDFW).
The purpose of this inspection was to ensure that the Licensee was complying with the requirements of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.
Interventions Carried Out by ONR
This was the first Fire Safety Inspection for this licensee since being granted its own nuclear site licence for their premises at the Winfrith site. At the time of the previous inspection in 2017 they had been a tenant of Magnox Ltd. The inspection focused on both the management of fire safety and the practical fire safety provision within selected areas and facilities across the Inutec Ltd complex. I informed the licensee that this inspection would focus on the conditions that relate to normal operating conditions:
- I conducted meetings to assess the approach being taken to the management of fire safety and the testing and maintenance of the fire safety systems across this facility.
- I used the relevant legislation relating to this inspection to focus on life fire safety issues. During my inspection, I challenged those accompanying me, and others about procedures and approaches to the practical application of maintaining adequate fire safety provision.
- I questioned personnel to test effectiveness and knowledge of arrangements.
- I examined a series of documents prior to my arrival on site.
- I took the opportunity throughout the walk down phase of my inspection to point out examples of obstacles and fire safety issues that are likely to compromise the application of the current fire safety strategy.
- I undertook a walk-through of a number of all three buildings that make up the Inutec Ltd complex, paying particular attention to the practical application of the fire safety strategy.
Explanation of Judgement if Safety System Not Judged to be Adequate
Not applicable
Key Findings, Inspector's Opinions and Reasons for Judgements Made
My overall impression was one of a licensee with a desire to develop the fire safety aspect of the operations within the Inutec Ltd complex. My perspective is one of a licensee who understands the need to apply a robust and pragmatic approach to fire safety, ensuring that it is taken seriously and is given the due consideration it deserves. I am of the opinion that senior managers have identified fire as a significant risk to the Inutec Ltd complex and those persons that work within it. Throughout the inspection I noted that all of those that I had contact with, demonstrated a suitable focus, support and attention to fire safety.
During both the walk down and the meetings held during the day I identified a number of examples of fire safety related good practice. A number of areas for improvement along with recommendations aimed at further enhancing the standards of fire safety will be followed up with the licensee’s Fire Safety staff.
My inspection has provided me with the confidence that the fire safety arrangements are currently effective with an understanding that a series of improvements will be addressed.
Conclusion of Intervention
I concluded with an assessment of compliance with the legislation, and presented deficiencies and recognised areas of good practice at a de-briefing meeting immediately following the inspection.
Overall my findings in relation to the areas I inspected, demonstrate a level of fire safety provision and management which affords an adequate standard. Those persons responsible for fire safety understand that, in order for the fire safety strategy that is in place at Inutec Ltd to achieve its goal, it is necessary that all members of staff are aware of the strategy and the rationale behind it.