Executive summary
Date(s) of inspection:
April 2025
Aim of inspection
Confirmation that SFL arrangements provide for the safe control of work with focus on contractor control and intrusive work on hazardous systems.
Subject(s) of inspection
- LC 26 - Control and supervision of operations - Rating: AMBER
Key findings, inspector's opinions and reasons for judgement made
The inspection assessed the implementation of arrangements for the safe control of work with focus on contractor control and intrusive work on hazardous systems. ONR sampled the licensees arrangements and implementation of those arrangements at two separate facilities on the site. Whilst the A341 facility sampled raised no areas of concern, the second area A686 raised multiple significant observations indicating that the sampled tasks had been poorly planned, inadequate risk assessments and the Springfields Fuels Ltd arrangements for safe isolations had not been complied with.
A warning alarm from a CHF leak detection system was noted in alarm which, without further information, should have resulted in evacuation and prevention of further entry to the area. Although subsequent investigation confirmed the alarm was as a result of sensor maintenance, this was not clear to those present and would not have been clear to the contractor undertaking operations in the area. Appropriate substitution arrangements should have been implemented for safety system in maintenance.
Upon challenge the licensee has taken appropriate steps to suspend works and authorities until investigations have been completed.
Conclusion
ONR sampled application of the SFL works control process and isolation process in two distinct and separate facilities.
At the A341 facility I am content that SLF has demonstrated adequate implementation of it control of work arrangements in accordance with License Condition 26 “Control and supervision of operations”. Individuals interviewed showed clear understanding of their roles and responsibilities and were able demonstrate application of control of work arrangements.
At the A686 facility several significant shortfalls in the control of works sampled were observed leading to licensee stopping operations in that area. I considered that the task had been poorly planned, the SFL arrangements for safe isolations had not been complied with and there was a lack of understanding regarding the significance of the warning alarm from a CHF leak detection system. Based upon these observations and subsequent actions taken by the licensee, I have given an inspection rating AMBER “Seek improvement”.
In accordance with ONR enforcement policy, amber rated inspections are evaluated against enforcement decision making process which in this case has resulted in an enforcement letter being issued to the licensee.