- Site: Heysham 1
- IR number: 21-116
- Date: November 2021
- LC numbers: 28
Executive summary
Purpose of Intervention
This was a planned themed inspection of EDF Energy Nuclear Generation Ltd’s (NGL’s) Heysham 1 Power Station, undertaken as part of the planned intervention strategy for the Operating Facilities Division (OFD) of the Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR).
The work was carried out in accordance with the planned inspection programme contained in the Heysham 1 Integrated Intervention Strategy (IIS) for 2021/22.
Interventions Carried Out by ONR
As part of the intervention I, the nuclear internal hazards and site safety specialist inspector accompanied by the nominated site inspector, carried out a planned on-site inspection to determine compliance with:
- Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER) for the safe use of lifting equipment, including thorough examination and storage of lifting equipment and accessories; and
- Licence condition (LC) 28 – Examination, inspection, maintenance, and testing. LC 28 requires the licensee to make and implement adequate arrangements for the regular and systematic examination, inspection, maintenance and testing of all plant which may affect safety.
An agenda was prepared and shared with NGL before the intervention.
During the site visit, we adhered with control measures outlined within ONR-GEN-GD-022 (Visit to licensee and other duty-holder premises and other relevant locations during the COVID-19 pandemic) and the local COVID-secure control measures at Heysham 1.
The intervention comprised:
- Holding discussions with NGL staff and contractors.
- A site walk-down accompanied by NGL staff.
- Reviewing progress with the delivery of Heysham 1’s LOLER improvement plan.
- Observation of lifting activities.
- Sampling of LOLER related documents and records.
- Sampling of maintenance and inspection records for lifting related components on the fuelling machine and pile cap crane.
Regulatory advice and judgement were based on determining compliance with sections 2 and 3 of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and the relevant statutory provisions made under the Act including LOLER and the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER). Relevant good practice such as the Approved Code of Practice L113 Safe Use of Lifting Equipment, ONR technical inspection guide LC 28 (Examination, Inspection, Maintenance and Testing NS-INSP-GD-028) and British Standard BS 7121-1:2016 were also consulted.
The intervention was performed in line with ONR's guidance requirements (as described in our technical inspection guides) in the areas inspected.
Key Findings, Inspector's Opinions and Reasons for Judgements Made.
During the inspection we identified areas of good practice including:
- Observed lifting was adequately planned, managed, and monitored. The staff involved demonstrated sufficient levels of competence in managing the hazards and risks associated with the work.
- The main rigging store was kept in clean and tidy condition with lifting equipment and accessories in good order.
- Lifting equipment and accessories sampled were compliant in respect of LOLER statutory thorough examination requirements.
NGL provided an update on their LOLER improvement plan which is being used to drive improvements. We were content with the general progress being made.
The NGL staff spoken to during the intervention, presented a knowledgeable and professional approach, and provided open and honest responses to questions.
Based on the samples inspected, we judged that NGL demonstrated adequate management of the hazards and risks associated with the use of lifting equipment against relevant good practice. As a result, an intervention rating of Green (no formal action) was allocated. We will however maintain contact with site to monitor the delivery of their LOLER improvement plan.
Based on the samples inspected, we judged that the examination, maintenance, inspection, and testing of lifting equipment involved in nuclear safety activities were adequate to demonstrate compliance with LC28 requirements. As a result, an intervention rating of Green (no formal action) was allocated.
In addition, from the sample of physical arrangements inspected when gaining access to site and during the plant tour, we were content that NGL were adequately implementing measures to reduce the risks associated with COVID-19 transmission. The site continues to utilise thermal imaging at site entrances; hand sanitiser stations and the requirement for face masks during close proximity working.
Conclusion of Intervention
There were no findings from this inspection that could significantly undermine safety. At present, no additional regulatory action is needed over and above the planned interventions at Heysham 1 Power Station as set out in the Integrated Intervention Strategy, which will continue as planned.