HELEN LASER FACILITY SAFETY CASE

Client:
AWE Aldermaston

Description:
The HELEN facility is a high-power glass laser system used for weapon physics research and to underpin mathematical modelling codes. Due to area redevelopment laser support facilities, are being relocated. These include laboratories and the x-ray calibration facility. As a result of these changes, a complete review of the facility safety case was undertaken. The review encompassed the facility changes that have taken place since the last issue of the safety case in 1999 and changes to the AWE safety case specifications.

Scope of service supplied

• Assessment of hazards resulting from the relocation of the laser support facilities and modifications to the laser and its operation.

• Reviewed shielding calculations and commissioning schedule to ensure procedures are adequate and confirm dose calculations.

• Review and update HAZARD / RISK / HF assessment (including EMP assessment).

• ALARP assessment.

• Review and update decommissioning plans and potential replacement with ORION.

• Review lasers of similar power for potential hazards (re: increased power).

• Review the commissioning results (i.e. commissioning safety reports) to ensure the upgrade has been installed and commissioned in line with its initial design, and still agrees with the AWE SAPs.

• Categorisation assessment and review of (Key) Safety Related Equipment and Safety Management Requirements.

• Review and update Environmental Impact Assessment