- Site: Hinkley Point B
- IR number: 20-083
- Date: October 2020
- LC numbers: 32
Executive summary
Purpose of Intervention
The purpose of this intervention was to undertake licence condition (LC) compliance inspection of EDF Energy Nuclear Generation Ltd.’s (NGL’s) Hinkley Point B Power Station. This was undertaken as part of the planned intervention strategy for the Operating Facilities Division (OFD) of the Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR).
The intervention was carried out by the nominated site inspector for licence compliance with specialist Inspectors and the Environment Agency.
Interventions Carried Out by ONR
I, the nominated site inspector, along with the Environment Agency Site Inspectors, performed an inspection to evaluate NGL’s compliance with the following nuclear site licence condition (LCs) and legislation which are applicable provisions of the Energy Act 2013:
- LC32 – Accumulation of Radioactive Waste
Whilst on site, I also undertook the following engagement activities with the licensee;
- Witnessing a Training Exercise
- Meeting with the Licensee’s internal regulator - INA.
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
Not applicable – no system based inspections were completed during this intervention.
Key Findings, Inspector's Opinions and Reasons for Judgements Made
The site was broadly complaint with the requirements of LC32. Waste accumulations are controlled and the majority of waste has clear disposal routes, which are being utilised.
There is a lack of understanding by staff on the site of the assumptions and basis of the safety case. This knowledge resides within EDF, but within a central team. The Living Safety Case should be updated to ensure that the basic assumptions are clear to the user and that any changes to the way the facility operates have been appropriately assessed. This has been raised as a formal level 4 issue. It is also recommended that the link between the authors and the operators is improved. I am satisfied that an IIS rating of green against LC32 is merited.
Conclusion of Intervention
There were 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 of Hinkley Point B power station as set out in the IIS, which will continue as planned.