The SIP project of Chernobylsk

The SIP (shelter implementation plan) project aims at stabilizing the sarcophagus of the Chernobylsk unit 4 and to improve its confinement. 5 priority axis have been defined: i) the reinforcement of the sarcophagus, ii) the reduction of the consequences of the ruin of the sarcophagus, iii) the improvement of radiation safety (management of radioactive water...), iv) the improvement of the security of workers (particularly fire protection and radiation protection), and v) the clearing away of the corium. The project is scheduled to cover 8 years but only half the funding is collected. International bids have been launched and the participants have been chosen. (A.C.)