- Site: Heysham 1
- IR number: 19-154
- Date: January 2020
- LC numbers: 11
Executive summary
Purpose of Intervention
This was a planned compliance inspection of EDF Energy Nuclear Generation Ltd.’s (NGL’s) Heysham 1 Power Station, undertaken as part of the planned intervention strategy for the Operating Facilities Division (OFD) of the Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR).
Interventions Carried Out by ONR
As part of this intervention I, the nominated site inspector, supported by a team of ONR inspectors, carried out an inspection to examine the licensee’s implementation of its arrangements which are necessary to demonstrate compliance with Licence Condition 11 (LC11) ‘ Emergency Arrangements’.
I also conducted routine intelligence gathering and on this occasion, I visited facilities associated with fuel route operations.
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 not applicable.
Key Findings, Inspector's Opinions and Reasons for Judgements Made
I, supported by a team of ONR inspectors, observed the level 1 (on-site) emergency exercise demonstration named ‘Cassiopeia’. The scenario for exercise ‘Cassiopeia’ was a nuclear emergency, initiated by a loss of reactor gas, repairs and multiple casualties all requiring treatment and rescue. The scenario also included a level 2 (off-site) component which was observed by a separate ONR team and which will be reported separately.
The exercise was actively supported by the Lancashire emergency services.
There were a number of positive observations and some opportunities for improvement which I communicated to the Station and EDF Corporate management. Overall however, I considered the exercise scenario provided suitable challenge and the licensee satisfied regulatory expectations with respect to the adequacy of the station emergency arrangements. I have rated LC11 as Green – no further regulatory action required.
Conclusion of Intervention
Exercise ‘Cassiopeia’ provided an adequate demonstration of the Heysham 1 emergency arrangements. ONR’s conclusions will be summarised in a letter to the Station Director.
There were no findings from this inspection and no additional regulatory action is needed over and above the planned interventions at Heysham 1 Power Station as set out in the Integrated Intervention Strategy, which will continue as planned.