Executive summary
Date(s) of inspection: September 2024
Aim of inspection
B39 is a key facility supporting AGROP and therefore is strategically significant to the UK. Regulatory Intelligence indicated that the facility is at the end of it’s envisaged design life.
The aim of my inspection was to seek assurance that the PSR for B39 is suitable and sufficient to ensure that the facility will be able to support flask operations (including AGROP) for the next decade.
My inspection also considered examination, inspection, maintenance and testing of all plant which may affect safety.
Subject(s) of inspection
- LC15 - Periodic Review - Rating: Green
- LC28 - Examination, inspection, maintenance and testing - Rating: Green
Key findings, inspector's opinions and reasons for judgement made
Purpose for inspection
B39 is a key facility supporting AGROP and therefore is strategically significant to the UK. Regulatory Intelligence indicated that the facility is at the end of it’s envisaged design life and in need of significant material improvement.
The purpose of my inspection was to seek assurance that the periodic review and EIMT arrangements for B39 are suitable and sufficient to ensure that the facility will be able to support flask operations (including AGROP) for the next decade.
Key Findings, Inspector's Opinions and Reasons for Judgements Made
We sampled the B39 safety case management process, arrangements for EIMT and asset management strategy including delivery.
We undertook a walkdown of the B39 facility including the flask reception bay, decontamination bays, grit and painting booths and work control office.
We noted the facility was in good condition with clear evidence of routine maintenance and plant husbandry. Discussions with the duty duly authorised person (DAP) also gave confidence in the embedding of safety case knowledge at an implementation level.
The facility also demonstrated an enterprise leading approach to asset management with demonstrable resource, finance and effort directed into the programme. The sampling we undertook gave confidence in the physical delivery of the improvements such as the T-Door and ergonomic/safety handrails in the decontamination bays.
Conclusion of Intervention
The B39 facility at Sellafield Ltd have demonstrated the adequacy of their arrangements for LC15, LC28 and Asset Management warranting an intervention rating of GREEN (no formal action).
I have raised a level 4 RI-12232 for a future engagement in Q2 2025 with the facility to give regulatory confidence that the rapid improvement project has delivered the plant improvements specified.
Conclusion
I consider that the licensee has provided adequate evidence that it has suitable and sufficient arrangements to demonstrate compliance with LC 15 and LC 28, this includes the arrangements identified in the asset management programme.
Consequently based on my inspections findings I judge a rating of adequate (GREEN) is appropriate for this inspection.