Explore recent operational incidents at Sellafield Ltd and understand the safety protocols that have been implemented to enhance operational safety and risk management.
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At Sellafield Ltd, transparency is fundamental to the organization’s operational activities. The company is committed to keeping the public and stakeholders informed about any incidents occurring during daily operations. This report summarizes recent events, the responses taken, and the implications for safety and regulatory compliance.
Recent operational incidents
One notable incident involved a can weighing 5.5 kg that fell from a height of 700 mm during routine swabbing in a facility handling Special Nuclear Materials. Fortunately, the can was retrieved without any radiological impact, leading to the event being classified as an INES Level 1 anomaly.
This classification indicates minor safety issues but underscores the robust safety measures in place.
Crane maintenance mishap
Another incident occurred during maintenance work on an 80-tonne crane, which is used for moving intermediate-level waste flasks. The crane’s wire rope descended uncontrollably onto a scaffold platform located approximately 18 meters below.
Fortunately, no injuries were reported. A safety stand down was initiated to reassess maintenance procedures, and an internal investigation is underway to identify the root causes of this event.
Monitoring and compliance issues
In another instance, while operating the Skip Handler Machine in the First Generation Magnox Storage Pond, it was discovered that the flexible lead sheets designed for radiological shielding were degrading, leading to visible lead oxide accumulation. This area is monitored closely due to its low foot traffic, and immediate access to the machine was restricted. Investigations are ongoing, and the regulator has been notified.
Power outage response
A power outage affecting part of the Sellafield site, caused by Storm Eowyn, triggered emergency protocols across multiple buildings. Standard evacuation procedures were enacted, and all personnel were accounted for following the incident. Once power was restored, assessments confirmed no significant risks to safety or environmental integrity, with ongoing reviews of electrical resilience planned.
Safety inspections and findings
During routine inspections, an open drain valve was discovered in a waste storage facility. Although the valve was padlocked, it was found to be operable due to a damaged lock. This prompted a thorough inspection of similar valves throughout the facility, revealing that several could also be manipulated despite being secured. This incident has led to increased awareness among operational teams regarding proper plant configuration.
Contamination incidents
Over the course of a month, there were two isolated incidents involving contaminated flasks during their transit from the High Level Waste Plant to the Miscellaneous Beta Gamma Waste Store. Although initial radiological surveys indicated no contamination, subsequent checks revealed contamination on the base of the flasks. Investigations are ongoing to ensure adherence to protocols, and the regulator has been informed of these findings.
Infrastructure and environmental assessments
In an ongoing effort to maintain compliance with environmental regulations, Sellafield Ltd has been addressing elevated levels of nickel discharges from its Enhanced Actinide Removal Plant. Monthly assessments revealed discharges exceeded permit limits, leading to an immediate halt of operations while investigations were conducted. However, a subsequent non-radiological impact assessment confirmed that the environmental consequences were negligible.
Additionally, an inspection of a chemical preparation area uncovered traces of nickel nitrate outside its containment. This prompted enhanced monitoring and cleaning measures, while formal investigations were initiated to ascertain the root causes and prevent future occurrences.
Sellafield Ltd remains committed to safety and compliance, consistently reviewing and updating policies in collaboration with regulators. Each incident is taken seriously, with thorough investigations and appropriate corrective measures implemented to uphold the highest standards for safety and environmental protection.
