Multi Element Bottle Export Facility
BNFL
Background
As part of the Sellafield complex, BNFL were constructing a new facility for the handling of multi-element bottles which previously contained spent nuclear fuel. Following the reprocessing of the fuel, the facility would remove the casks from storage ponds to be dewatered and transported to further storage facilities.
Project
CCD was commissioned to evaluate the human processes that would be followed in the operation of the facility as well as the design of the hardware. The objectives of the study were to assess the facility design against the capabilities of the human operators in terms of error, communication and man-machine interface.
Implementation
CCD delivered a detailed analysis of operator tasks and made recommendations on operator to Banksman communication, visual links from operator positions (e.g. crane cab), use of hands-free radio systems, maintenance of manually operated controls to minimise H&S risk, information presentation to reduce reliance on short-term memory, data entry protocols, access and reach to hardware, minimisation of walking routes to improve task performance, use of "deadman" controls on lifting hardware to minimise risk and the use of powered equipment.
Outcomes
CCD's intervention was invaluable in improving the future operation of the facility and providing evidence to the HSE of the structured consideration of human factors issues.
Find out more
BNFL: www.bnfl.com
Sellafield: www.sellafieldsites.com