Executive summary
Date(s) of inspection:
May 2025
Aim of inspection
The aim of this intervention is to observe and assess the annual Level 1 Site Safety Demonstration Exercise against the requirements of LC11(5). Dounreay is required to demonstrate the adequacy of their emergency arrangements against the requirements of LC11 and the regulatory expectations provided within ONR’s guidance NS-INSP-GD-001.
Subject(s) of inspection
- IRR17 - Rating: GREEN
- LC 11 - Emergency arrangements - Rating: GREEN
- REPPIR - Rating: GREEN
Key findings, inspector's opinions and reasons for judgement made
ONR inspectors observed Dounreay’s annual Level 1 site safety demonstration exercise, Delta 61. The objectives of this exercise were for Dounreay to:
- demonstration of facility emergency response;
- demonstration of command and control;
- demonstration of effective casualty management and treatment; and
- formulation and implementation of a viable short- and medium-term recovery plan.
During this emergency exercise ONR inspectors were positioned at the scene of the event, the site command & control centre, the forward control points, additionally inspectors visited site’s medical facilities and travelled in emergency vehicles. This was to observe the totality of the exercise and place judgements on Dounreay’s overall response during the exercise.
Conclusion
Based on the observations of the ONR inspection team, we considered that this was an adequate demonstration of Dounreay’s emergency arrangements against the requirements of LC11, the guidance provided within ONR's guidance document NS-INSP-GD-011 and other relevant legislation. On this basis, ONR has awarded an inspection rating of GREEN.
Observations were provided to site on some areas where improvements could be made, including: clear expectations on use of three way communications, appropriate consideration of communications whilst wearing medical protective equipment and discipline of emergency responder staff in entering vehicles.