- Site: Heysham 2
- IR number: 21-158
- Date: March 2022
- LC numbers: 28
Executive summary
Purpose of Intervention
This was a planned inspection of EDF Energy Nuclear Generation Ltd’s (NGL’s) Heysham 2 nuclear power station, undertaken as part of the intervention strategy for the Operating Facilities Division of the Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR).
The inspection was conducted in accordance with the planned inspection programme contained in the Heysham 2 Integrated Intervention Strategy for 2021/22.
Interventions Carried Out by ONR
This inspection was against licence condition (LC) 28 – Examination, inspection, maintenance and testing. This inspection was the fourth themed LC28 inspection (across the fleet), examining the adequacy and comprehensiveness of different aspects of the maintenance management system.
The inspection focused on quality management of spares and parts, the storage of spares and parts, condition monitoring and the calibration and storage of maintenance tools and equipment. The inspection comprised of discussions with the licensee staff, an inspection of the stores and a review of the licensee’s documentation and arrangements.
The intervention was performed in line with ONR's guidance requirements (as described in our technical inspection guides) in the areas inspected.
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
I examined the stations arrangements for the quality management of spares and parts. I was satisfied that the licensee has appropriate arrangements in place however some minor shortfalls were identified in the implementation of these arrangements. I inspected the stores and identified that the housekeeping could be improved and regulatory advice was provided to the licensee.
I examined the stations arrangements for the calibration of maintenance tools and equipment. The licensee was able to demonstrate that these items are calibrated and there are barriers that ensure they are only used within their period of calibration validity. However, I was of the opinion that the control of personal issue out of calibration items could be improved and a minor regulatory issue will be raised.
I examined the arrangements for condition monitoring of plant. The licensee was able to demonstrate compliance with their minimum mandatory standards for condition monitoring or provide an appropraite derogation. I identified that the maintenance schedule condition monitoring was not signed off by the supervisor and considered this not to meet the requirements of LC28(9). I will raise a regulatory issue to address this shortfall.
Conclusion of Intervention
From the areas targeted and the evidence examined during the inspection, I consider the licensee has adequate arrangements for the systematic examination, inspection, maintenance and testing of plant which may affect safety. The licensee demonstrated adequate implementation of these arrangements. I judge that no formal regulatory action is required over and above the planned inspections at Heysham 2.
Based on the evidence sampled during this inspection, I judge that an inspection rating of Green is appropriate against LC28 in accordance with the ONR inspection rating guidance.
Three regulatory issues will be raised to address minor shortfalls against regulatory expectations.