- Site: Hinkley Point A
- IR number: 20-069
- Date: November 2020
- LC numbers: N/A
Executive summary
Purpose of Intervention
This was a planned inspection at Hinkley Point A, to establish the effectiveness of the licensee’s arrangements for managing contractors. I also evaluated the improvements made to the asbestos management arrangements on site.
Interventions Carried Out by ONR
I sought to determine whether the arrangements for contractor management, in respect of the glazing replacement project, were adequate to demonstrate compliance with the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015, Regulation 8 (general duties) and Regulation 13 (duties of the Principal Contractor in relation to health and safety at the construction phase).
I also evaluated the asbestos management improvements against the requirements of The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, Regulation 4, duty to manage asbestos.
Key Findings, Inspector's Opinions and Reasons for Judgements Made
Based on discussions with the construction manager and site engineer, I was satisfied that, in respect of the glazing replacement work, Magnox had made reasonable enquiries to verify that the contractors had the skills, knowledge and experience to carry out the work safely, as required by CDM, Regulation 8.
I examined the arrangements put in place by Magnox Ltd to fulfil their Principal Contractor (PC) duties on the glazing replacement project. The arrangements met the requirements of CDM Regulation 13, however, the appointment of a ‘main contractor’ has the potential to lead to lack of clarity around who is responsible for fulfilling the PC duties during the construction phase.
I undertook plant walk-downs of the site to inspect the implementation of the CDM arrangements on selected construction projects. No significant matters were identified, although some of the site management arrangements for these projects seemed complex, and I observed that there would need to be effective coordination and cooperation during these final stages to ensure safe access and egress and safe vehicle movements between sites.
A meeting was held to discuss improvements to the site’s asbestos management arrangements. Through discussions with the Lead Asbestos Competent Person and a site walkdown, I concluded that the arrangements are now adequate to bring about sustained compliance with The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012.
I provided feedback to the site on the inspection findings at a close-out meeting with management representatives.
Conclusion of Intervention
Overall, I consider that Site has effective arrangements in place for the management of contractors and, following improvements, for the management of asbestos, which meet relevant good practice.