Press Release: SRSA decides on special conditions for operation at Ringhals

The Swedish Radiation Safety Authority  (SRSA) has decided to submit Ringhals AB to specific diverse investigative measures and conditions for the operation of the reactors at Ringhals 1-4. The Authority and its predecessors have since 2005 raised deficiencies that can be linked to the safety culture at the nuclear power. But, problems remain despite actions implemented by Ringhals.

 SRSA and its predecessor the Swedish Nuclear Power Inspectorate highlighted a series of failures of supervision at the nuclear plant since 2005. These are weaknesses in terms of command and control, traceability of internal decisions and compliance with procedures and instructions.

- The Authority has repeatedly pointed out deficiencies followed by efforts from Ringhals. Yet they have not come to grips with their problems, "says Leif Karlsson, Acting Head of Department for Nuclear Safety at SRSA.

Under the authority's decision should Ringhals investigate and report why the practice is not complied with, and why past and current actions not intended results. Ringhals is also preparing a new action to correct these identified recurring deficiencies.

Moreover, the decision on the specific conditions that Ringhals must recognize internal decision on the restart before any of the reactors become operational after withdrawals.

compiling and presenting the conclusions and actions following internal audits.

compiling and presenting the conclusions and actions resulting from investigations of the relationships in human-technology-organization.(??)

preparation and presentation of the management of temporary instructions.

SRSA do not believe that the identified shortcomings prevent continued operation of the reactors. However the Authority considers that safety is not given the weight which is necessary in all parts of the organization. This could ultimately jeopardize the reactor safety.

In another decision the SRSA gives approval to take Ringhals reactor Ringhals 1 into trial after a completed modernization program. The biggest changes are the modernization of the reactor protection system and strengthening the function of the residual effect of cooling.

In addition, SRSA examined the application for the restarting of the Ringhals 1 in the light of revealed deficiencies which parts of the reactor's automatic safety feature were not activated during operation. The Authority decides in this case to accept a restart because Ringhals done the investigation and taken the measures necessary for the reactor to be operational in a safe manner.

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