The long term safety review of nuclear power stations

As each UK nuclear power station approaches its 20th anniversary it is required by the Nuclear Installations Inspectorate to undertake a comprehensive review of matters relating to nuclear safety. This article outlines the origins and scope of the Review and stations' approach to it, and describes features of particular interest. Only the Magnox type reactors are considered. A summary of the Review topics are also given. These are very comprehensive and cover all aspects of the plant operating procedures and staffing which influence nuclear safety. The review requires about 45 papers to be written for each station and is carried out over 2-3 years. The Reviews for Bradwell and Berkeley have now been completed and submitted to the NII, those for Hinkley Point A and Trawsfynydd are underway. (U.K.)