STUK intensifies its assessment of Posiva’s organisational readiness
Starting the final disposal of spent nuclear fuel as the first company in the world requires a lot from both the operator and the supervising authority. As part of its safety assessment related to Posiva’s operating licence application, the Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK) is further intensifying its assessment regarding the readiness of Posiva’s organisation to start the operation of the final disposal facility.
STUK’s intensified supervision of Posiva’s organisation started in the autumn of 2024. The purpose is to ensure that the operations meet the safety requirements and prerequisites that have been put in place. Alongside the more effective supervision, STUK is also implementing methods that it refers to as event investigations in order to deepen its understanding regarding the observations it has made concerning Posiva’s organisation as well as the factors underlying them.
- I find it positive that, in addition to our own estimates, the authority is taking steps to independently ensure that our operations meet all the set safety requirements, says Ilkka Poikolainen, President and CEO for Posiva.
Posiva is currently engaged in the test operation of the disposal facility. It tests the functionality of the equipment and organisation across the entire final disposal process. Final disposal is set to begin in the mid-2020s.
Text: Pasi Tuohimaa