- Site: Dounreay
- IR number: 21-100
- Date: October 2021
- LC numbers: 23, 24, 27
Executive summary
Purpose of Intervention
This inspection at Dounreay was one of a series of inspections planned for 2021/22 to confirm that Dounreay Site Restoration Ltd (DSRL) is controlling its hazards and complying with its statutory obligations.
Interventions Carried Out by ONR
The inspections examined the suitability of arrangements and their implementation against the following legislative requirements:
- LC23 – Operating rules.
- LC24 – Operating instructions.
- LC27 – Safety mechanisms, devices, and circuits.
- Control of Asbestos Regulations (2012).
The inspection also provided the opportunity to undertake the following:
- Review of progress against Regulatory Issues and Agreed Regulatory Actions.
- Review of DSRL’s Internal Regulation capability.
- Meeting with the Site Safety Representatives.
The Nominated Site Inspector also attended [via MS Teams] a public meeting of the Dounreay Sites Stakeholder Group.
Explanation of Judgement if Safety System Not Judged to be Adequate
Not applicable.
Key Findings, Inspector's Opinions and Reasons for Judgements Made
The LC23, LC24 and LC27 compliance inspections focused on the corporate arrangements and their implementation within the Waste, Reactors and FCA Decommissioning operational areas. Overall, we consider that, in each of the areas inspected, there was a clear correlation between the limits and conditions for safe operation identified during the hazard analysis process and the operational limits and hold points provided in the associated operating instructions. In addition, we are satisfied that key safety systems and equipment and their safety functions are clearly identified within the hazard analysis documentation with a clear correlation of the maintenance of that function within the associated maintenance instructions.
The inspection against the requirements of the Control of Asbestos Regulations focused on the corporate arrangements and their implementation in support of the site decommissioning programme. Overall, we consider that DSRL demonstrates adequate compliance against the requirements of the Regulations and acknowledges that delays in removing asbestos from those areas categorised as ‘high hazard’ aligns with ONR’s current understanding of the schedule of decommissioning activities.
We remain satisfied that DSRL continues to make adequate progress to address the action plans associated with previous inspection findings. In addition, we remain satisfied with the increased profile and role the site’s internal assurance team plays in the oversight and governance of high hazard projects.
Conclusion of Intervention
Overall, we consider that DSRL has, and has implemented, adequate arrangements to meet the requirements of the legislation covered by this intervention in those areas inspected. In addition, we consider that DSRL continues to make satisfactory progress to address issues raised during previous inspections. We did not identify any matter impacting on nuclear safety that required any further immediate regulatory action.