- Site: RRSL
- IR number: 21-081
- Date: September 2021
- LC numbers: 26
Executive summary
Purpose of Intervention
This intervention was conducted at Rolls-Royce Submarines Limited’s (RRSL) Neptune Reactor nuclear licensed site at Raynesway, Derby. This was an unannounced inspection, prompted by repeated events on the Neptune refurbishment project relating to unsatisfactory contractor performance.
Interventions Carried Out by ONR
ONR conducted an unannounced inspection focusing on the control and supervision of contractors by both RRSL and its principal contractor, JN Bentley.
The inspection focused on the outcomes for nuclear safety, therefore it was conducted utilising relevant good practice from licence condition (LC) 26 – ‘Control and supervision of operations’, though it is noted that in the licence conditions, ‘operations’ do not include construction, and for conventional safety aspects, the Construction Design and Management regulations also apply.
Explanation of Judgement if Safety System Not Judged to be Adequate
This was not a system-based inspection.
Key Findings, Inspector's Opinions and Reasons for Judgements Made
Having attended planning meetings, discussed implemented arrangements with RRSL and JN Bentley staff, as well as observing work on the site itself, we saw sufficient evidence to have confidence that it is unlikely that JN Bentley will have a repeat of early events that saw the need for significant amounts of rework. The level of RRSL and JN Bentley supervision, alongside the inspection and test plans introduced and the identification of witness points within them should ensure nuclear safety outcomes are secured and demonstrable.
Whilst we saw one issue with the rigour of risk assessment and method statement checks for low nuclear safety significance tasks, examination of an upcoming high nuclear safety significant task did demonstrate sufficient rigour.
Consideration must be given to the provision of a suitable space (preferably indoor) where JN Bentley can deliver effective start of shift briefs to ensure work parties are set to work appropriately regardless of outside conditions.
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, safeguards or security functions”
No further regulatory interventions on this topic are planned at this time.