In a recent development at the Hinkley Point C construction site in Somerset, the Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR) has served enforcement notices for fire safety shortcomings following pre-planned inspections conducted over three days in November. Laing O’Rourke, alongside other companies involved in the project, such as Bouygues Travaux Publics SAS, received regulatory attention.

The enforcement notices, totalling four, were issued to NNB Generation Company (HPC) Ltd, the licensee, as well as contractors Bouygues Travaux Publics SAS and Laing O’Rourke Construction Ltd, joint venture partners in BYLOR JV, and REEL UK. These notices mandate the implementation of improvements to rectify compliance shortfalls and prevent their recurrence at the Hinkley Point C site.

Despite the identified shortfalls posing no immediate consequences for employees, the public, or the environment, the ONR highlighted the potential for harm and the risk of serious injury, warranting regulatory intervention. Shane Turner, superintending inspector and head of safety regulation – Hinkley Point C, emphasised the significance of these enforcement notices, stating, “The enforcement notices require these four organisations to make improvements in fire safety arrangements at the Hinkley Point C site.”

The ONR intends to engage with each company throughout the enforcement notice period to ensure positive progress in implementing the necessary improvements. The specified deadline for compliance is 31 March 2024. The enforcement action is rooted in contraventions under the requirements of Article 22 of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. Fire professionals across sectors and experience levels are urged to stay informed about these developments to enhance their understanding of evolving safety standards in the industry.

View the SOURCE here.

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