Executive summary
Date(s) of inspection: March 2024
Aim of inspection
This was a radioactive waste inspection carried out jointly between ONR and the Environment Agency. The aim of this inspection was to cover Licence Condition (LC) 32 (Accumulation of radioactive waste) and LC 34 (Leakage and escape). The scope included the current status of solid low-level waste (LLW) and the management of liquid waste. It also looked at the records to ensure safe future management of higher activity waste (HAW)
Subject(s) of inspection
- LC32 - Accumulation of radioactive waste - Rating: Green
- LC34 - Leakage and escape of radioactive material and radioactive waste - Rating: Green
Key findings, inspector's opinions and reasons for judgement made
Segregation at source has been recently implemented for larger projects. The waste inventory provides an accurate account of radwaste in each storage location, and the HAW records have been updated recently in line with arrangements. An improved working relationship with project teams means that radwaste is being planned for in advance of arising. Progress disposing of legacy waste in 2023 has resulted in more space in the decontamination centre. These measure have contributed to waste being disposed of more quickly and easily, and therefore reducing the amount accumulated on site. The waste engineers have instigated a week of waste management themed safety messages to reinforce communication on segregation and correct processing of radwaste, which I consider to be good practice. I provided some advice to review the number and frequency of walkdowns required to avoid duplication.
There is level detection on all tanks and sumps in the Active Effluent Treatment Plant (AETP). Routine tests are carried out as prompted by the maintenance system (AMS). I sampled a range of tasks and all were being carried out at the correct frequency. A three-yearly holistic review of AETP maintenance was carried out in at the end of 2023, which concluded that the maintenance schedule and environmental maintenance could be better harmonised. During the plant walkdown I saw no signs of leaking, and the AETP was clear of any housekeeping issues. The bunding was in a generally good state of repair, though I provided some advice to ensure that containment was not being compromised by visible minor degradation in the protective flooring under the soapy effluent tanks.
Conclusion
Arrangements for managing solid waste at Dungeness adequately reduce the quantity of waste stored on site, using segregation at source and prompt disposal. Records for HAW are being routinely updated. Dungeness have adequate arrangements for detecting and responding to leaks, and have suitable secondary containment. Therefore, I have rated this inspection GREEN, no formal action, against LC 32 (Accumulation of radioactive waste) and LC 34 (Leakage and escape).