Executive summary
Date(s) of inspection:
June 2025
Aim of inspection
The aim of the intervention was to inspect compliance with site Licence Conditions 28 at EDF Energy Nuclear Generation Ltd’s Heysham 2 power station.
The inspection was in accordance with ONR’s integrated intervention strategy for the site. ONR technical inspection guide NS-INSP-GD028 (Examination, Inspections Maintenance and Testing) will be used as the basis for the inspection
Subject(s) of inspection
- LC17 - Management systems - Rating: Green
- LC28 - Examination, inspection, maintenance and testing - Rating: Amber
Key findings, inspector's opinions and reasons for judgement made
This licence condition compliance inspection focused on the effectiveness of Heysham 2 management, and implementation of maintenance and defect management arrangements. The intervention sampled defect management process, adequacy of oversight and assurance activities in relation to maintenance implementation for defect management.
This inspection involved discussions with relevant site personnel, review of records and information contained within electronic databases and other documentation. It was evident that the higher priority defects raised through the EDF management system were being managed in a timely manner, however we noted that there are an increasing number of low priority defects which require action in a more timely manner.
During the inspection we identified some areas that require improvement including,
Ensuring long term defects are actioned and closed out in a timely manner as per EDF arrangements, and where this is not achieved, ensure that a clear auditable trail, capturing risk informed decisions to support categorisation within the EDF management system are available.
We noted that it was positive that station have self identified shortfalls in defect management on station, and are conducting a bottom up review of reported defects. However, we note that it is important that following the review of Facility and Other related defects, the plan to review the low priority and safety defects is undertaken to fully understand degradation, accumulative effect and safety and operational impact. .
To support the areas above, we advised that the appropriate governance and oversight is implemented when defects are being reviewed, re-categorised or updated.
Through discussions it was evident that there was a reluctance to address some defects at source through ‘tool pouch’ and ‘helpdesk’ processes where we consider a number of minor defects sampled could have been addressed when first identified, however work requests were raised, resulting in these defects contributing to the higher than expected number of defects. Station are looking into ways to re-invigorate these processes.
Overall, it was positive that Heysham 2 have already self identified shortfalls in the work management system which incorporates defect management. We were reassured that the findings from this inspection will be incorporated into the ongoing improvements work streams established and intended to improve work management, driving defect numbers down to a more manageable level.
ONR rated LC17 as green (no further action) and LC28 as amber (seek improvement). We will forward an advice letter to Heysham 2 and raise regulatory issues to track stations actions in implementing the required improvements.
Conclusion
Overall, we noted that is was positive that Heysham 2 have already self identified shortfalls in the work management system which incorporates defect management. We were reassured that the findings from this inspection will be incorporated into the ongoing improvements work streams established and intended to improve work management, driving a reduction in defect numbers to a more manageable level.
We rated LC17 as green (no further action) and LC28 as amber (seek improvement). We will forward an advice letter to Heysham 2 and raise regulatory issues to track stations actions in implementing the required improvements.