- Site: Heysham 2
- IR number: 19-144
- Date: December 2019
- LC numbers: 11
Executive summary
Purpose of Intervention
The purpose of this intervention was to observe and evaluate a Level 1 emergency demonstration exercise at EDF Energy Nuclear Generation Limited’s (NGL) Heysham 2 Power Station, in line with the ONR’s inspection programme contained in the Heysham 2 Integrated Intervention Strategy for 2019/20.
Interventions Carried Out by ONR
In my capacity of nominated site inspector for Heysham 2 Power Station and supported by a team of ONR inspectors, I observed a Level 1 emergency demonstration exercise rated with regard to Licence Condition (LC) 11 – Emergency Arrangements. The scenario was agreed in advance by ONR
The intervention was performed in line with ONR's guidance requirements (as described in our technical inspection guides) in the areas inspected.
Explanation of Judgement if Safety System Not Judged to be Adequate
No system based inspection was undertaken hence, this is not applicable for this intervention.
Key Findings, Inspector's Opinions and Reasons for Judgements Made
Overall, the time to muster site personnel was good, reactor safety was considered and maintained and the exercise objectives were met. However, the communications between the Access Control Point (ACP) and Forward Control Point (FCP) were weak (an issue seen previously at other sites) and the time to rescue the casualties was excessive. In my opinion, this delay was because site personnel acted in a conservative manner as it was an ONR observed demonstration.
Conclusion of Intervention
In my opinion, the exercise provided an adequate demonstration of Heysham 2 Power Station’s emergency arrangements and is awarded a rating of Green against LC11. However, I will be raising a fleet issue requiring improvements in the way that the FCP and ACP communicate.
I informed the site that once the fleet has made the necessary changes to address the issue I would expect the site to demonstrate this improved capability to ONR through a scheduled exercise next year.
No additional regulatory action is needed over and above the planned interventions at Heysham 2 Power Station.