- Site: LLWR
- IR number: 21-123
- Date: November 2021
- LC numbers: 26
Executive summary
Purpose of Intervention
This was one of a series of planned inspections at the Low Level Waste Repository (LLWR) during 2020/21, it was to examine LLWR’s management of conventional health and safety hazards, including excavation work and workplace transport. ONR also sought evidence, within the scope of the inspection, on the effective implementation of LLWR’s Licence Condition (LC) 26 arrangements.
Interventions Carried Out by ONR
The inspection involved discussions with LLWR staff, contractors working on site and Trade Union Safety Representatives. The inspectors carried out site walk-downs accompanied by relevant personnel and sampled associated records, followed by further remote correspondence upon reviewing additional documents provided by LLWR after the site visit.
Regulatory advice and judgement were based on determining compliance with Sections 2 and 3 of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 and the relevant statutory provisions made under the Act and under LC26.
Key Findings, Inspector's Opinions and Reasons for Judgements Made
The inspectors observed examples of good practices that demonstrated adequate management of workplace transport and adequate provision of control and supervision over work activities.
The inspectors were unable to observe any excavation activities during this inspection because no such activity was taking place at the time due to inclement weather conditions prior to the inspection.
The inspectors provided regulatory advice to the site to review its excavation arrangements and ensure safety controls related to selection of vehicles and unsupported ramps were captured and communicated clearly.
The inspectors followed up on four recent events reported by the site that were relevant to the scope of the inspection. The inspectors were content that the events had been monitored and actions by LLWR adequately.
Conclusion of Intervention
ONR inspectors were satisfied that LLWR had demonstrated adequate management of workplace transport and provided adequate level of control and supervision on the work activities.
Findings from this inspection would be considered in the scope of future planned ONR inspections at LLWR.