Executive summary
Date(s) of inspection:
February 2026
Aim of inspection
To judge RRSL’s compliance against the Ionising Radiations Regulations 2017 (IRR17) relating to practices of Industrial Radiography and any practice involving a high-activity sealed source (HASS). This inspection follows the submission of a Safety Assessment submitted to ONR via PR-02212 (Industrial Radiography) and PR-02213 (HASS).
Subject(s) of inspection
- IRR17 - Rating: Green
Key findings, inspector's opinions and reasons for judgement made
This inspection was undertaken by two radiological protection specialist inspectors to judge Rolls-Royce Submarines Limited (RRSL) compliance against the Ionising Radiations Regulations 2017 (IRR17) relating to practices of industrial radiography, practices involving a high-activity sealed source (HASS) and industrial irradiation (specifically the use of electron beam welders). This inspection follows the submission of safety assessments submitted to ONR via PR-02212 (industrial radiography) and PR-02213 (HASS) as part of the IRR17 consents application and assessment process. The safety assessment for industrial irradiation is due to be submitted to ONR later this year.
The inspection provided suitable time to discuss arrangements with relevant RRSL personnel, sample relevant documents, and undertake a site visit to gain confidence in the implementation of arrangements for the above practices.
I judged that on the basis of evidence sampled, compliance with IRR17 was demonstrated in relation to these practices. Good practices were observed and some minor observations were shared with RRSL. One regulatory issue was raised to track RRSL’s review of contingency arrangements for one of its calibration facilities. I was content that that doses associated with these practices are restricted ALARP and that safety assessments submitted by RRSL for HASS and industrial radiography accurately describe the radiological protection arrangements in place. I therefore rated this intervention GREEN.
Conclusion
I judged that on the basis of evidence sampled, compliance with IRR17 was demonstrated, in relation to practices involving industrial radiography, HASS and electron beam welders. Good practices were observed and some minor observations were shared with RRSL. One regulatory issue was raised to track RRSL’s review of contingency arrangements for one of its calibration facilities. From observations of a sample of facilities, discussions with relevant personnel and sampling of documentation, I am satisfied that doses associated with these practices are restricted ALARP and that safety assessments submitted by RRSL for HASS and industrial radiography accurately describe the radiological protection arrangements in place. An inspection rating of GREEN (no formal action) is appropriate.