- Site: Hartlepool
- IR number: 20-100
- Date: December 2020
- LC numbers: 28
Executive summary
Purpose of Intervention
This was a planned inspection of EDF Energy Nuclear Generation Ltd.’s (NGL’s) Hartlepool nuclear power station, undertaken as part of the intervention strategy for the Operating Facilities Division (OFD) of the Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR).
The inspection was conducted in accordance with the planned inspection programme contained in the Hartlepool Integrated Intervention Strategy for 2020/21.
Interventions Carried Out by ONR
The inspection was carried out remotely, led by ONR’s Heysham 2 site inspector supported by ONR’s Hartlepool site inspector and an ONR project inspector. The inspection was against licence condition (LC) 28 – Examination, inspection, maintenance and testing.
The scope of this inspection was to examine the maintenance organisation, its roles and responsibilities, how maintenance is supervised and how personnel within the organisation are considered to be suitably qualified and experienced persons (SQEP). The inspection comprised of discussions with NGL maintenance personnel and a review of NGL records, documents and processes.
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
We examined the structure and organisation of the stations maintenance organisation and were content that the station has adequate resource to deliver planned preventative, reactive and statutory maintenance. We were satisfied that the maintenance organisation has a clear understanding of the defined authorities and responsibilities for controlling the maintenance system and the lines of reporting.
We sampled data on the completion of maintenance activities, compliance with the maintenance plan, maintenance backlogs and the associated causes. Although there is a maintenance backlog, we were satisfied that the station has implemented a proactive approach to improving the delivery of maintenance. We were content that planned maintenance was being performed, although not necessarily when it was initially planned to be delivered.
We examined the training given to maintenance staff, the process in place to monitor its effectiveness and implement improvements. We were satisfied that the station has robust, accredited training arrangements for maintenance staff, which are subject to strong internal challenge and review.
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 at Hartlepool nuclear power station as set out in the Integrated Intervention Strategy, which will continue as planned.
Based on the evidence sampled during this inspection, I judge that an inspection rating of Green is appropriate against LC 28 in accordance with ONR inspection rating guidance.