Press Release-I-14-040, NRC Issues Security-related Inspection Finding for Limerick Nuclear Plant, Resulting in Increase in Agency'S Oversight at Facility

Press Release-I-14-040: NRC Issues Security-related Inspection Finding for Limerick Nuclear Plant, Resulting in Increase in Agency'S Oversight at Facility

ML14296A765
Person / Time
Site:	Limerick
Issue date:	10/23/2014
From:	Office of Public Affairs Region I
To:
Category:Press Release
References
Press Release-I-14-040
Download: ML14296A765 (1)

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No: I-14-040 October 23, 2014 CONTACT: Diane Screnci, 610-337-5330 Neil Sheehan, 610-337-5331 NRC Issues Security-related Inspection Finding for Limerick Nuclear Plant, Resulting in Increase in Agencys Oversight at Facility The Nuclear Regulatory Commission will increase its level of oversight at the Limerick nuclear power plant following the finalization of a security-related inspection finding that has been classified as greater than green. The twin-reactor plant is located in Limerick (Montgomery County), Pa., and is operated by Exelon.

The NRC uses a color-coded assessment system for inspection findings and performance indicators. The colors range from green, for very low safety or security significance, to white, yellow or red, for high safety or security significance. In the case of security-related inspection findings or performance indicators, the NRC notifies the public when the greater than green threshold has been crossed. However, the agency does not provide specifics because of the sensitivity associated with such findings and indicators.

During an inspection conducted at the Limerick plant from June 16 to 20, the NRC documented the finding. Per the NRCs review process, Exelon was offered an opportunity to provide a written response or take part in a Regulatory Conference with NRC staff to provide additional information and/or perspectives regarding the finding. Exelon chose to take part in a conference, which was held on Sept. 18.

After considering the information presented by the company, and the information developed during the inspection, the NRC has determined the finding is appropriately characterized as greater than green.

Based on the finalization of the finding, the NRC will perform a supplemental inspection at Limerick to ensure Exelon fully understands the root causes of the issue and has implemented long-term, permanent corrective actions, Acting NRC Region I Administrator David Lew said. We would stress that the plant remains secure. Indeed, before our inspectors left the site after the issue had been identified, we ensured that appropriate interim compensatory actions were put in place.