Executive summary
Date(s) of inspection:
June 2025
Aim of inspection
The purpose of this Inspection was to sample evidence of implementation of the Atomic Weapons Establishment (AWE) arrangements for compliance with Licence Conditions (LC) 26, specifically within the Plutonium Technical Centre (PTC), in order to inform a regulatory judgement regarding the licensee’s compliance with its legal duties under the nuclear site licence.
Subject(s) of inspection
- LC 26 - Control and supervision of operations - Rating: GREEN
Key findings, inspector's opinions and reasons for judgement made
I targeted this ONR LC26 inspection on the adequacy of the PTC processes for ensuring control of operations and for setting people to work (including Contractors).
PTC provided an overview of their current compliance with LC26 and reported that they had seen an increasing trend in LC26 events. As a result of the events, the plant has carried out two investigations, undertaken a Control of Work Evaluation and an A3 problem solving review. I reviewed the output from the investigations and A3 problem solving and was satisfied that actions are being set to address the shortfalls identified in work control. Overall, I am satisfied that PTC plant have identified areas for improvement in LC26 arrangements and have action plans in place to implement those improvements.
I reviewed the systems in place for work planning and setting people to work (including contractors). During the plant visit I reviewed a selection of Work Packs and Work Authorisation Forms. Based on the evidence provided, I was content that PTC have suitable and sufficient processes in place for work planning and setting people to work.
I reviewed the systems in place for maintaining plant status, operational control and shift handovers. Based on the evidence provided, I was content that PTC have suitable and sufficient processes in place for maintaining plant status and operational control.
From the areas sampled, I provided some regulatory advice but did not identify any shortfalls in the implementation of the licensee’s arrangements which would necessitate a further inspection of LC26 earlier than currently planned
Conclusion
Overall, based on the evidence provided during the inspection, I was content that PTC has adequate processes and people in place for the planning and control of work on the plant.
Overall, based on the evidence sampled during the inspection, I judge that an inspection rating of Green (no formal regulatory action) is appropriate against Licence Condition 26.