Sellafield - ISF Fire Safety inspection

• Site: Sellafield
• IR number: 19-009
• Date: April 2019
• LC numbers: 11

Executive summary

Purpose of Intervention

An inspection of Building B1981 at Sellafield Ltd was undertaken as part of the planned Integrated Intervention Strategy (IIS) for the Sellafield, Decommissioning, Fuel and Waste Division (SDFW) of the Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR).

The purpose of this intervention was to inspect against compliance with the requirements of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.

Interventions Carried Out by ONR

The intervention focused on both the management of fire safety and the practical fire safety provision within the selected facility identified above.

• I examined a series of documents prior to my arrival on site.
• I used the relevant legislation relating to this inspection to focus on life fire safety, not nuclear fire safety issues. 
• I undertook a walk-through of most of the areas of the selected building, and paid particular attention to the practical application of the fire safety strategy. During the inspection I identified fire safety issues that may compromise the application of the fire safety strategy.
• During my inspection, I challenged those accompanying me, and others about procedures and approaches to the practical application of maintaining adequate fire safety provision.
• I conducted meetings to assess the approach taken to the management of fire safety and testing and maintenance of the fire safety systems across the facility.
• I questioned personnel to test effectiveness and knowledge of arrangements and their implementation.

Explanation of Judgement if Safety System Not Judged to be Adequate

Not Applicable

Key Findings, Inspector's Opinions and Reasons for Judgements Made

This is a new facility currently undergoing active commissioning prior to entering into the operations phase. My overall impression was one of a facility which is ready and adequately prepared for its intended activities without offering any concerns with regard to life safety from fire. This is to be expected from a new build design.

During the inspection, I identified a number of examples of minor compliance issues requiring attention. I was particularly impressed with the enthusiasm and desire by the Facility Manager to ensure fire safety is robustly managed within this building.

B1981 Management Team displayed a positive appreciation of the importance of effective fire safety measures within the facility and that they demonstrate a confident approach to maintaining compliance with the relevant legislation.

Conclusion of Intervention

Notwithstanding the observed areas for improvement, it is my judgement that this facility offers a safe environment from fire from a life safety perspective and achieves compliance with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.