Skip to content

Sellafield - Inspection ID: 52565

Executive summary

Date(s) of inspection:

  • January 2024

Aim of inspection

The purpose of this inspection is to gain assurance that Analytical Services are compliant with the Ionising Radiations Regulations 2017 (IRR17)and associated Sellafield Limited procedures and standards for work associated with operations within Analytical Services. The main focus of the inspection will be on Analytical Services’ ability to perform its service safely and compliantly using effective, designed engineering controls and appropriate working procedures, to ensure dose exposure is controlled and remains ALARP.

Subject(s) of inspection

  • IRR17 - Rating: Green

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

This was a planned inspection that was undertaken to assess compliance with the Ionising Radiations Regulations 2017 (IRR17) within the Analytical Services area at Sellafield.

I identified that the arrangements for radiation risk assessment were complex relying on several processes to cover the requirements of IRR17 Regulation 8.

Contamination control arrangements were good in the labs and at C2/C3 boundaries.

Controls for restriction of exposure were adequate in the facility; standards of housekeeping in the gloveboxes and in the labs were very good and sharps were well controlled in the fumehoods and gloveboxes, and processes for dealing with broken glassware in the sinks.

Ageing equipment, such as gloveboxes and ventilation systems are significantly degraded and causing some of the highest hazards in the facility. These high risk building assets are included in the Decommissioning Milestones plan for the facility and are prioritised for remediation to assist future risk reduction.

Conclusion

There were no significant gaps in compliance with those requirements of the regulations of IRR17 examined. All observations noted were discussed directly with the Head of Operations and RPA, who agreed to review those areas in response.

The inspection was rated as Green (no formal action required).