“We quickly initiated an inspection case to review the safety and IFE’s emergency preparedness at the fuel storage pond. Additionally, we have instructed IFE to consider possible immediate measures at the facility. DSA will review and approve such measures says Acting Department Director Ingeborg Mork-Knutsen at the Norwegian Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (DSA), who leads the inspection of IFE Halden.
DSA was notified by IFE on January 20th, 2025, that during IFE’s own inspections related to the aging management program at the facility, bolts and a shift in the structure holding the fuel in place in the wet storage for spent fuel had been observed. IFE has carried out new inspections this week showing that previous repairs in the storage pond have reduced the risk of a serious incident. As part of the inspection case DSA has asked IFE for more documentation related to the wet fuel storage, and DSA will make its own assessments of IFE’s risk evaluations.
“We have received updated information and assessments from IFE that we will not face a critical situation even if there are further shifts in the storage. We understand that the local population may feel concerned. It is important to raise awareness and have good preparedness when such things happen. However, it is important for us to emphasize that there is no reason for people to be anxious,” says Mork-Knutsen.