Recent investigations by the Norwegian regulatory authority, Direktoratet for Strålevern og Atomsikkerhet (DSA), have raised alarms over the condition of a nuclear facility in Halden, located in southeastern Norway near the Swedish border. The issue centers on the used nuclear fuel storage facility—known as the Fuel Storage Pond (FSP)—at the site operated by IFE.
Background and inspection process
On January 21, DSA initiated an investigation after being alerted on January 20 to a new situation at the used fuel storage pond. The inspection, which focused on detecting wear in the construction of the wet storage facility, was designed to evaluate whether all safety protocols and regulatory requirements were being met. Over the course of several weeks, DSA conducted multiple supervisory meetings, interviews with IFE’s employees, and requested extensive documentation regarding maintenance and safety measures.
Findings and regulatory breaches
The investigation has revealed several critical issues at the facility. During the inspection, DSA observed notable wear and tear in the structure of the wet storage system, raising serious concerns about the long-term integrity and safety of the installation. As stated by DSA’s acting department director, Ingeborg Mork-Knutsen:
“The main impression is that the situation at the facility is serious.”
Furthermore, the inspection uncovered multiple breaches of the regulations and operational requirements stipulated in the plant’s license. DSA emphasized that these findings indicate a failure to fully adhere to the established standards for nuclear safety and operational integrity.
Implications for nuclear safety in Norway
Following the inspection—which concluded on February 13—DSA has presented its findings to IFE. The regulatory authority has urged IFE to assess possible measures to strengthen the safety of the facility immediately. In addition to addressing the observed structural damage, DSA is set to include these violations in an upcoming inspection report scheduled for completion by the end of February. Future follow-up actions will be determined based on the corrective measures implemented by IFE.
The issues identified at this nuclear facility underscore broader concerns regarding nuclear safety standards in Norway. With international attention increasingly focused on the safe operation and maintenance of nuclear installations, this case highlights the importance of rigorous regulatory oversight. The ongoing monitoring by DSA is critical not only for the safety of the facility’s operations but also for maintaining public confidence in nuclear energy as a whole.
