It is essential that suppliers are fully aware of the relevant legislation, and (if used for presumption of conformity) the requirements of standards used for design, manufacture and commissioning. It is a harsh reality that many manufacturers are not fully conversant in this arena, and this often results in technical files that are lacking in documentation. Technical files are an essential record of a machines design, specifications, and conformity to relevant safety standards and regulations.
Some Nuclear establishments also have their own sets of standards in place with additional requirements which exceed those specified in standard publications. Ensuring an organisation meets these standards in terms of the product and the organisations manufacturing, verification and validation activities can be very complex.
These issues are often not realised until the handover phase where the solution and its technical file is reviewed and the deficit highlighted. Manufacturers are then faced with additional costs through delays and the need for additional resources to rectify.
Finch Consulting can assist your organisation in identifying these requirements at the critical, early stages to prevent costly delays later in the project.
Design Considerations
When designing for the nuclear industry there are many intricacies that must be considered. Equipment to be used within zones with radioactive emissions, or which may become irradiated, may have restrictions on the design. Examples may include:
- Material Selection – some materials may be prohibited due to the reactive nature of the environment.
- Methods of Cooling – use of liquid cooling is avoided where possible as contaminated fluids are difficult to control.
- Welding vs bolts – use of welding is a convenient solution however may be accompanied with stringent test requirements; it is possible to use other methods where available to reduce cost.
Manufacturing and Commissioning
Access to installation sites can be problematic due to ongoing works, security issue, or concurrent projects. This can lead to costly delays. It is advisable to reduce the time required on site through foresight and carrying out as much testing as possible prior to shipping. For example:
- A comprehensive FAT (Factory Acceptance Test schedule) enables identification of client change requirements prior to shipping.
- Clear and detailed test and inspection documentation can streamline the site engineer’s workflow.
- Independent review can assist with early identification of future challenges.
Advantages of Early Engagement with an Expert
Early engagement with an expert can increase the success and profit margins of your project. Compliance starts at concept and does not need to be a costly afterthought. Consulting with an expert from the beginning can provide:
- Early review and identification of end user requirements
- Planning for the production of documentation requirements (deliverables and technical file)
- Improved project plan accuracy
- Early identification of nuclear/radioactive environment issues (material selection & commissioning challenges)
During the design development, future delays and cost implications involved in integrating 3rd party equipment can be avoided through:
- Expert risk management and safety requirements specification for system design
- Specification of Supplier/Equipment requirements
- Independent verification of system safety aspects
- Planning of onsite validation activities to reduce time and resource required
- Independent validation of the technical file and compliance to the relevant Essential Health and Safety Requirements or Essential Requirements
