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Hartlepool - Inspection ID: 52794

Executive summary

Date(s) of inspection:

  • August 2023

Aim of inspection

To provide regulatory confidence in the implementation of the Hartlepool Unit 2 2023 Statutory Outage Intentions Document in relation to Mechanical Engineering. To provide evidence to inform the ONR decision relating to the issue of a Licence Instrument for a Consent for return to service of Hartlepool Unit 2, on completion of the work.

Subject(s) of inspection

  • LC28 - Examination, inspection, maintenance and testing - Rating: Green

Key findings, inspector's opinions and reasons for judgement made

I consider that the licensee has adequately demonstrated its examination, inspection, maintenance and testing of Mechanical Engineering equipment. My judgement is based on sampling the following during the Hartlepool Reactor 2 periodic shutdown:

  • Emergency Boiler Feed Pumps;
  • Gas Circulator Non-Return Valves; and
  • Auxiliary Gas Dryer changeover valve G/225

During the intervention, several minor issues were identified. I consider that these were adequately addressed by the licensee and do not require a regulatory issue for formal follow-up. Based on my sampling undertaken during this intervention, I consider that the licensee has adequately demonstrated its Mechanical Engineering examination, inspection, maintenance and testing (EMIT) arrangements and their implementation. Hence, during the periodic shutdown I consider the licensee has adequately demonstrated compliance with Licence Condition (LC) 28. I have not identified any issues that would prevent EDF Nuclear Generation Ltd.’s Hartlepool unit 2 from returning to service. I judge that a GREEN inspection rating is appropriate.

Conclusion

Based on my sampling during this intervention, I:

  • consider that the licensee’s EIMT activities have adequately demonstrated compliance with LC28;
  • consider that the licensee has adequately applied EIMT relevant good practice (RGP); and
  • have not identified any issues that would prevent EDF Hartlepool Unit 2 from returning to service.

Hence, I judge that a green rating, against ONR’s inspection rating guide is appropriate for this intervention.