Nuclear police have carried out the most in-depth security inspection ever at Wylfa to ensure it is prepared for a terrorist attack.
The Anglesey site was subject to a ‘Multi Discipline Intervention’ - the most thorough security inspection it had ever hosted and the first of its kind on a Magnox nuclear site.
This was carried out in conjunction with a security exercise aimed at demonstrating how the site would respond to a “terrorist activity” once the Civil Nuclear Security(CNC) force leave the location later this year.
This comes as the terror threat in the UK remains ‘severe’ - which means that a terrorist attack on the country is highly likely.
Stuart Law, site director, said: “The inspection involved a review of all aspects of security; not just the physical measures but the way site protects information as well as the vetting and access processes.
“Overall the arrangements were found to be adequate and a number of positive findings were identified along with a number of areas for improvements which will be prioritised in a plan to deliver the required improvement.
“In conjunction with the security inspection the site carried out a security exercise aimed at demonstrating how the site would respond to a terrorist activity should it occur once CNC have been stood down from the site which is currently aimed at April 2016.
“A team of ONR-CNS (Civil Nuclear Security) inspectors observed the exercise and judged that it was an adequate demonstration of the arrangements that are intended to be put in place when CNC are stood down.
“This is an important step in transitioning into the defuelling phase.”
Generation of electricity ended at Wylfa in December and the site will now move to the de-fuelling stage.
A Magnox spokeswoman said: “A security regime is in place at Wylfa Nuclear licensed Site which includes a range of protective measures.
“Currently, one of these is the support from the Civil Nuclear Constabulary - who operate on nuclear sites throughout the country.
“As the site progresses through the defuelling and decommissioning phases of its life cycle, site security arrangements will be reviewed on an ongoing basis and varied accordingly, reflecting the reducing hazard and risk profile at the site.
“CNC will withdraw from Wylfa at some point in the future and when they do, the existing guard force will be responsible for security (as is currently the case at other sites operating in the nuclear industry).
Inside look at Wylfa
“The site security arrangements will continue to be the subject of scrutiny and approval by the Office for Nuclear Regulation – Civil Nuclear Security.
“Whatever the circumstances, a security regime which is fit-for-purpose and consists of a range of measures will continue in place at Wylfa, thereby supporting the security and safety of those who work onsite and live in our surrounding communities.
“Given the need to maintain security and safety standards we are unable to provide further details.”
see-http://www.dailypost.co.uk/business/wylfa-terror-check-ensure-nuclear-10825877
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