HM Chief Inspector of Nuclear Installations to report on Fukushima31 March 2011

Mike Weightman, HM Chief Inspector of Nuclear Installations, is to produce a report on the implications for the UK nuclear industry of the devastation at the Fukushima Dai-ichi nuclear power plant in Japan.

The report was requested by the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change, Chris Huhne, and is due for delivery by the middle of May, with a final report this September.

Weightman says it's about learning relevant lessons, in cooperation with the international nuclear energy industry – but will not address nuclear or energy policy issues as such.

Although he is reluctant to define the final scope of the report, given the fact that events in Japan remain in a state of considerable flux, Weightman indicates that it will cover the Fukushima plant's design provisions for resilience against natural hazards.

It will also analyse the events on site, including actions taken on- and off-site, such as the emergency response and its effects on the control and mitigation of hazards.

Weightman also says that there will be a comparison of UK nuclear power station designs with those at Fukushima, with an analysis of natural hazards and other threats to UK nuclear facilities – leading to recommendations.

Weightman is setting up an independent expert technical advisory panel to assist in the report. He is currently seeking submissions from all those with technical information about the accident or thoughts about any lessons from it.

Brian Tinham

Related Companies
Health & Safety Executive

This material is protected by MA Business copyright
See Terms and Conditions.
One-off usage is permitted but bulk copying is not.
For multiple copies contact the sales team.