- Site: Torness
- IR number: 19-096
- Date: October 2019
- LC numbers: 11, 7
Executive summary
Purpose of Intervention
The purposes of this week of interventions at EDF Energy Nuclear Generation Ltd’s (NGL) Torness power station were to:
- Undertake a compliance inspection examining aspects of the station’s arrangements for emergency response made under Licence Condition 11 (LC11);
- Undertake a compliance inspection of LC7 - incidents on the site, focusing on aspects of reporting, sentencing and investigation of events;
- Carry out a series of routine engagements including a meeting with staff safety representatives, update meetings with key staff, and progress updates concerning a number of regulatory issues.
The interventions were planned as part of ONR’s inspection strategy for operating reactors and inspection plan for Torness.
Interventions Carried Out by ONR
I carried out the inspections in my capacity as nominated site inspector for Torness Power Station.
For LC 11, accompanied by an ONR colleague, I carried out an LC11 inspection utilising the Emergency Preparedness and Response Capability Map (EPRCM). This is a framework used to evaluate emergency planning and response in the context of seven subject areas. ONR aims to evaluate all areas of the EPRCM on each operating reactor site during a five year cycle. During this inspection we focused on Capability Map Outcome s 2, 4 and 7 (Anticipation, Prevention and Recovery).
For the LC7 inspection I sampled relevant records of incidents and investigations and spoke to staff involved in the process.
The intervention was performed in line with ONR's guidance requirements (as described in our technical inspection guides) in the areas inspected.
Key Findings, Inspector's Opinions and Reasons for Judgements Made
For LC11 we found that the station was able to demonstrate compliance with both station and company processes. The emergency handbook for TOR has been aligned with the fleet handbook which is positive. The station has also implemented a new process aimed at identifying new security hazards. One minor regulatory issue will be raised concerning use of offsite backup emergency equipment, however based on the evidence provided we gave an inspection rating of ‘Green – no formal action’ for compliance with LC11.
During the LC7 inspection I found evidence of good adherence to the company’s processes, and examples of competently conducted investigations that resulted in clear and proportionate actions. I made some observations and gave advice on potential areas for further improvement, and raised one minor regulatory issue concerning feedback to staff who report conditions and events. I gave an inspection rating of ‘Green – no formal action’ for compliance with LC7.
I met a number of the station’s appointed safety representatives. We discussed ONR’s inspection plans for the past year and its findings, and the representatives shared their views on the safety performance of the site. I had a number of follow-up meetings concerning matters arising from previous inspections, and closed one regulatory issue. I also had routine meetings with key staff at the station.
Conclusion of Intervention
Findings were discussed with station management. There are no findings from this inspection that could significantly undermine nuclear safety. At present, no additional regulatory action is needed over and above the planned interventions at Torness.