- Site: Springfields
- IR number: 21-017
- Date: May 2021
- LC numbers: 10, 23, 24, 27, 28
Executive summary
Purpose of Intervention
This inspection on the Springfields Works nuclear site was undertaken as part of a programme of planned inspections as outlined in the Springfields Fuels Limited site inspection plan for 2021/22.
Interventions Carried Out by ONR
During this systems-based inspection I examined the arrangements related to over-temperature faults of uranium hexafluoride cylinders in autoclave systems in the Oxide Fuels Complex – Conversion Plant, to ensure adequate implementation of the following licence conditions:
- LC10 Training
- LC23 Operating rules
- LC24 Operating Instructions
- LC27 Safety Mechanism, Devices and Circuits
- LC28 Examination, Inspection, Maintenance and Testing
The inspection comprised of plant inspection, office-based examination of procedures and records and interviews with staff.
I also held a meeting with the Springfields Safety Representatives to discuss several issues relating to the future of the site.
Explanation of Judgement if Safety System Not Judged to be Adequate
Not Applicable.
Key Findings, Inspector's Opinions and Reasons for Judgements Made
I carried out a System Based Inspection to assess the implementation of arrangements in relation to potential over-temperature faults of uranium hexafluoride cylinders faults in the autoclave systems in the Oxide Fuels Complex – Conversion Plant. During this inspection, I reviewed the licensee’s safety case and considered that it accurately represented the facility and identifies the associated hazards and risks. In my opinion the safety case also identified appropriate operating rules and safety mechanisms, devices and circuits.
I reviewed the training records for a sample of operational and maintenance staff. I found that all such persons had current training records against all the operating and maintenance instructions sampled during this inspection. I reviewed several applicable operating and maintenance instructions and found that they were clear and concise and identified references to the safety mechanisms, devices and circuits identified by the operating rule.
I found that the licensee is undertaking suitable maintenance and testing activities for the temperature control systems. All maintenance records sampled were within date and legible. The licensee also demonstrated that the plant was not operated, unless the safety mechanisms, devices and circuits were functioning and in good working order.
Conclusion of Intervention
Based on the evidence gathered during this inspection, I consider that the licensee has made and implemented adequate arrangements to ensure the systems used to prevent the over-temperature of uranium hexafluoride cylinders in autoclave systems fulfils the requirements specified in the safety case.