Design verification of large scale reprocessing plants

BNFL's experience in preparing for safeguards in the Thermal Oxide Reprocessing Plant (THORP) is reviewed. The design of THORP and the process of introducing design features in support of safeguards are described. The range of commissioning tests and the managerial arrangement for control are summarised and show how the requirements of safeguards are built into the procedures for installation, checking and commissioning. A methodology is proposed for identifying design and commissioning activities of relevance to safeguards and for assigning priorities; and proposals are made for structuring Design Information Verification. (author)