- Site: Sellafield
- IR number: 19-129
- Date: November 2019
- LC numbers: N/A
Executive summary
Purpose of Intervention
An inspection of Buildings B1922 and B407 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 (RRFSO).
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 a random selection of the areas of the building, and paid particular attention to the practical application of the fire safety strategy. During this I pointed out examples of obstacles and fire safety issues that are likely to 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 held discussions with relevant persons to assess the approach being taken to the management of fire safety and the testing and maintenance of the fire safety systems across this facility.
- I questioned personnel to test effectiveness and knowledge of arrangements.
Explanation of Judgement if Safety System Not Judged to be Adequate
Not Applicable
Key Findings, Inspector's Opinions and Reasons for Judgements Made
Both of these facilities are primarily occupied by One FM and other contractor organisations with SL maintaining management of the facilities by means of a specific Building Manager (BM). Neither facility is plant facing. B1922 offers almost entirely office and administrative provision and B407 has a mixture of storage / warehouse space and some offices primarily used by union organisations. Challenges exist in ensuring that the “tenants” operating these facilities have a clear understanding of their responsibilities in ensuring that the fire safety strategies are adequately applied.
During both the walk down and the meeting, I identified areas for improvement relating to the management of the fire safety strategy for both buildings. Of specific note is the need for the management of fire safety and the fire strategy to be better understood by those persons who occupy and operate these facilities.
Specific issues regarding the management of combustible materials within fire protected routes which make up part of the means of escape (B1922) and the adequacy of the means for raising the alarm in the event of a fire and the application of the evacuation strategy (B407) were identified as the main areas for improvement. The licensee took immediate action to improve the conditions within both of the facilities. I was encouraged by the degree of importance that was placed on implementing immediate risk reduction measures within both buildings. I have received photographs and written confirmation regarding the completion of the issues that I identified within B407. Separately I have been provided with a description of the intended action to improve the understanding and management of fire safety in B1922. I am satisfied with the proposed approach.
Both BM displayed a positive appreciation of the importance of the need for an effective fire safety strategy within their respective facilities. They have demonstrated a confident approach to introducing the changes required such that compliance with the relevant legislation will be achieved.
Conclusion of Intervention
I concluded with an assessment of compliance with the legislation, and presented deficiencies and expected actions at a wash-up meeting with the Building Management Team. Given the proactive approach to address my immediate concerns in relation to compliance with the RRFSO as well as the commitment to address the outstanding minor shortfalls, I have rated this inspection as Green (no formal action).