- Site: Heysham 2
- IR number: 20-043
- Date: August 2020
- LC numbers: 7
Executive summary
Purpose of Intervention
The purpose of this inspection was to evaluate the adequacy of implementation of EDF Energy Nuclear Generation Limited’s (NGL) arrangements for ‘the notification, recording, investigation and reporting of … incidents on the site…’ at Heysham 2 (HYB) nuclear power station.
Interventions Carried Out by ONR
The inspection was carried out via video conference, led by the HYB Site Inspector and a member of Independent Nuclear Assurance team for some sessions. This included a session with the Corrective Action Programme (CAP) Co-ordinator and six 40-minute individual interviews with members of the senior leadership team (SLT) and group heads.
The inspection gathered data on the effectiveness of the CAP/Organisational Learning process (the principal mechanism through which NGL comply with the requirements of Licence Condition (LC) 7) and examined the degree of SLT individuals’ engagement with the CAP process.
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
The fleet arrangements for compliance with LC7 are considered adequate and engagements with HYB staff demonstrate that they have a sound understanding of them. I consider that HYB complies with the requirements of the arrangements and I found no regulatory shortfalls during this inspection. Station personnel are willing to create learning briefs over and above the new fleet requirements showing commitment to the process.
In general all the persons I spoke to understood the value of OPEX and had a desire for it to add value. The performance improvement department had some good ideas for enhancing the system and processes at HYB to add value. The key issue for the station is actually the number and timeliness of actions and assignments. My opinion is that this needs to be addressed through improved accountability and line management processes combined with an action plan to close or cancel legacy actions after a robust review process. Station are aware of these findings and are looking to address them.
Conclusion of Intervention
Based on the sample inspected, I rate the inspection as GREEN – no formal action. This is in line with the established ONR guidance:
- “Relevant good practice generally met, or minor shortfalls identified, when compared with appropriate benchmarks”,
- “No significant shortfalls identified in the delivery of safety or security functions”,
- “Relatively minor, if any, deficiencies in compliance arrangements.”
I believe that no additional regulatory interventions are needed over and above those already planned at HYB Power Station.