Executive summary
Date(s) of inspection: April 2024
Aim of inspection
The aim of this joint inspection with the Environment Agency was to sample Dungeness A's approach to the ongoing requirements of asset care, with respect to changes caused by climate change. Compliance with LC28 was how this inspection was judged. This inspection also examined the implementation of the site's arrangements for assuring personnel are Suitably Qualified and Experienced (SQEP).
Subject(s) of inspection
- LC12 - Duly authorised and other suitably qualified and experienced persons - Rating: Green
- LC28 - Examination, inspection, maintenance and testing - Rating: Green
Key findings, inspector's opinions and reasons for judgement made
I judged the adequacy of NRS Ltd.'s Dungeness A site arrangements and their implementation against the expectations associated with Licence Condition (LC) 12 (Suitably Qualified and Experienced Personnel (SQEP)) and LC28 (Examination, Inspection, Maintenance and Testing (EIMT)). The inspection was devised to examine how the dutyholder:
- ensures that facilities and buildings are subject to adequate asset care, with regard to the effects of climate change. As a coastal site, Dungeness A is at risk of worsening weather, which has already seen physical damage to various buildings on site.
- ensures that personnel performing tasks that may affect safety are Suitably Qualified and Experienced (SQEP).
I conducted this inspection jointly with colleagues from the Environment Agency. Dungeness A has a mature set of arrangements for LC12 and 28, and I was content that they are being implemented adequately on site. The site has developed an adequate understanding of the impact that climate change will have on asset care
Conclusion
From the evidence that I sampled during the course of this inspection, I consider that the licensee has adequate arrangements for the appointment of Suitably Qualified and Experienced Personnel (SQEP) and has developed an adequate understanding of the impact that climate change will have on asset care at Dungeness A. I consider that a rating for LCs 12 and 28 of Green (no formal action) is warranted for this inspection.