- Site: Barrow
- IR number: 21-108
- Date: November 2021
- LC numbers: N/A
Executive summary
Purpose of Intervention
This was a planned inspection of life fire safety of the BAE Systems Barrow site, undertaken as part of the planned intervention strategy for the Operating Facilities Division (OFD) of the Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR), carried out in-line with the planned inspection programme contained in the BAE Systems Integrated Intervention Strategy (IIS).
The purpose of this intervention was to ensure that the Licensee was compliant with the requirements of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.
Interventions Carried Out by ONR
The intervention was undertaken over two days and focused on both the management of fire safety arrangements, and the practical fire safety provisions within the D59, D58, and Devonshire Dock Hall (DDH) facilities, and included an update from the BAE Fire & Rescue Service (BAEFRS) on progress of the on-going development of the BAEFRS capabilities.
Key activities undertaken included: assessment of the relevant fire risk assessments, the management of fire safety, testing and maintenance of the fire safety systems, and the progress of the fire alarm replacement project. Walkdowns of the D59, D58 and DDH facilities were also undertaken to assess the practical application of the written arrangements.
Explanation of Judgement if Safety System Not Judged to be Adequate
Not Applicable
Key Findings, Inspector's Opinions and Reasons for Judgements Made
My overall assessment was that BAE Systems ensures that fire safety is taken seriously, and that a clear understanding of the requirements to ensure continued compliance at BAE Systems was adequately demonstrated. BAE Systems has identified and prioritised fire at an appropriate risk level within the facilities inspected. Throughout the inspection, all of those that I had contact with demonstrated an enthusiastic focus, support and attention to life fire safety requirements.
Several findings were made during the inspection, including the obsolescence of fire alarm and detection systems and an emergency lighting system, historic uncontrolled modifications to a fire barrier, inappropriate storage of combustible items and poor housekeeping standards in the waste area.
However, when considering BAEs immediate response to and/or forward plan for each of those aspects alongside their significance, I was content that none required any further regulatory action.
Conclusion of Intervention
No matters of regulatory concern were identified, and no ongoing regulatory action is required at this time.
Therefore, I have rated the outcome of this inspection as GREEN.