Nuclear Decommissioning Authority
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Around 800 concrete-lined drums of Intermediate Level Waste will be transferred over the next three years for interim safe storage at Sellafield under the project, which forms a critical part of the NDAs Nuclear Materials Transfer (NMT) programme, ahead of eventual disposal in a Geological Disposal Facility (GDF).
As part of Nuclear Waste Services Type B programme, the three-strong Gemini fleet of specialist packages spent two years in France with ORANO NPS undergoing a condition assessment and refurbishment before undergoing extensive Site Acceptance Testing at Sellafield and Harwell to ensure their readiness for a return to service.
Steve Chester, NWS Type B Programme Manager, said:
The Gemini fleet was brought back into service specifically for its role in this project and the launch of shipments is a major milestone for the NDA Site Decommissioning and National Waste Management Strategy, its Nuclear Material Transfer Programme, and for NWSs Type B Packaging Programme.
Teamwork proved vital to the success of the project with an integrated programme/ project management strategic approach adopted, led by NWS, with Sellafield, Magnox and ORANO NPS, to manage risk and respective site interfaces, and drive efficiencies wherever possible.
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Intermediate Level Waste is loaded into a Gemini container.
Darren Holt, NWS Gemini Project Manager, said:
It is testament to the collaborative efforts and professionalism of all three site teams culminating in the successful return to service of the TN Gemini package and demonstrates the benefits of a fully integrated and collaborative approach to delivery.
Samantha Berryman, Senior Project Manager at Magnox, said:
This project has been an excellent example of teamwork, both within Magnox, the wider NDA estate and overseas. Learning from Experience has been readily shared culminating in a number of safety improvements and pr