Executive summary
Date(s) of inspection
- March 2026
Aim of inspection
This Compliance Inspection is aimed at sampling the adequacy of Dungeness B’s arrangements for managing the risk associated with manual handling activities at site. It will sample how station are identifying manual handling activities, assessing the risks, and implementing the control measures.
Subject(s) of inspection
- Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 - Rating: Green
Key findings, inspector's opinions and reasons for judgement made
This inspection targeted EDF Energy Nuclear Generation Limited (NGL) change to their company specification in relation to manual handling operations. This inspection involved a day on site which consisted of a site walk-down and discussion with key role holders responsible for managing manual handling operations at station. During the station walk down discussions were held with individuals carrying out activities where manual handling had been avoided. Avoiding manual handling activities is in line with the Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992.
The inspection also enabled sampling of the wider processes EDF Energy NGL have in place for sampling risks assessments that are produced by contractors. EDF Energy NGL currently use the ‘RAMS Repository’ as a document control procedure to ensure oversight of contactors risk assessments and method statements.
Conclusion
Dungeness B were able to demonstrate they had implemented procedures to ensure that they were compliant with the Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992. The Manual Handling Co-ordinator played an active role in assessing manual handling risks where they could not be avoided and also observing manual handling activities. Station are proactively looking to appoint a second Manual Handling Co-ordinator to enable resilience in the role.
In setting a high target for manual handling assessors it was apparent that station raised awareness of manual handling risks throughout their workforce. However, given the amount of individuals in the role it is unlikely that there would be enough opportunities for them to carry out assessments. If they are not carrying out the assessments then they would not have the opportunity to embed their knowledge.
During the station walkdown it was evident that teams had measures in place to avoid manual handling, and this appeared to be embedded knowledge. The investment in manual handling aides by contract partners demonstrated that they were looking to reduce employees exposure to manual handling risks.
In my judgement, based on the areas sampled, compliance with the Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 was adequately demonstrated during the inspection and therefore a green rating is appropriate.