helent, Author at Sellafield

Life Saving Principles in focus: Plant and Machinery

Posted on March 11, 2025 by helent

Working with plant and machinery can present various hazards and risks that can lead to serious injuries or fatalities if not managed properly.

This is why the Health, Safety and Wellbeing Hub has introduced the Plant & Machinery Life Saving Principles to keep everyone work Knowingly Safe.

We will be highlighting why it is so crucial to follow these non-negotiable principles to ensure we go home safely each night.

The complexity when working with Plant & Machinery requires that robust safety measures are in place, and that anyone operating the plant & machinery is competent and vigilant throughout the operation.

The principle, part of the 10 Life Saving Principles, launched by the Hub, to supplement our Golden Rules, highlights some of the key areas where we need to be vigilant.

Follow the rules

The rules state:

I will carry out a pre-start check before operating any plant or machinery.
I will confirm any proximity warning system are fully operational before work begins.
I must check that any dangerous moving parts are guarded and report any defects immediately.
I must confirm that all people and equipment are in a safe position before, during any movement of plant & machinery.
I must never bypass safety features and controls on plant or machinery.
Never remain on a vehicle, plant or machinery, when it is being loaded or unloaded unless control measures are in place.

Neil Walker, Health & Safety Advisor for PPP, said:

“The Life Saving Principles identify our high-risk activities, one of which is working with Plant & Machinery.

“We know across the construction industry, this is one of the areas where there can be major incidents or fatalities, so it’s critical to us that our Life Saving Principle introduces control measures to help in working safely when operating both plant and machinery.

“One of the non-negotiables is that plant and machinery must be fitted with a proximity and/or guarding safety devices to ensure the safety of our operators.”

Roof slab concrete pour gets underway

Posted on February 21, 2025 by helent

The first of seven concrete pours on the roof slab of SRP’s process building got underway last week as it progresses towards being fully weathertight, a project wide objective the team is expected to achieve in the coming months.

Around 350 cubic metres of concrete was poured at a rate of 35 cubic metres per hour, pumped up to a height of 30 metres after being delivered using five concrete wagons, in rotation, from our on-site batching plant.

The placing, compacting, and screeding of the concrete was led by a team of 11 people with support from engineers, marshalls and technicians.

Construction Manager Gerry Coan said: “The start of the roof slab concrete pour would not have been possible without the efforts of a whole team of people, which includes our steel-fixers, joiners, marshals, plant and crane operatives, and all the engineering, safety and quality support teams. Well done to all involved.

“If all goes to plan, and weather permitting, the final roof pour will happen at the end of April.”

Bulk excavation complete on project

Posted on February 13, 2025 by helent

Our Intermediate Level Waste – East Zone (ILW-EZ) project continues to make significant strides in safety, excavation, and surface preparation – with strong collaboration and innovative solutions leading the way.

A major milestone has been hit with the completion of bulk excavation work, with 130,000 cubic metres of material successfully removed, the equivalent to over 50 Olympic size swimming pools.

The D1 Phase 1 spoil repository has now been filled and is in the process of being closed down.

One of the biggest challenges during this phase was managing logistics, particularly the movement of materials. Coordination with local authorities and supply chain partners enabled the team to secure 169 truck movements per week, ensuring that the excavation work remained on schedule.

Safety Performance and System Enhancements

The project has recorded a 94 per cent safety energy score and achieved 200,000 hours without a Lost Time Accident.

A key contributor to this success is the introduction of the new Spillard People Plant Interface (PPI) system, designed to improve site safety by providing real time alerts to operators.

The system increases situational awareness and reduces the risk of vehicle and personnel interactions.

To support ongoing safety improvements, the project team has implemented structured training sessions, regular safety briefings and recognition initiatives that reinforce best practice across the site.

The Spillard People Plant Interface PPI system upgrade is scheduled to be rolled out across the site. This system standardisation aligns with broader PDD safety initiatives, providing a consistent and effective safety measure across multiple project sites.

The Management of Plant People Interface standard, developed by the Health, Safety and Wellbeing Hub, has pioneered the improvements which will move us towards a position of Knowingly Safe.

The Spillard PPI system will help reduce plant-related risks by alerting both vehicle operators and personnel when they are in proximity to moving equipment. This proactive approach improves hazard awareness and contributes to a safer working environment.

Challenges

Andrew Haile, Senior Project Manager for the ILW project, said: “This project has faced its fair share of challenges but the progress we have made is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the entire team.

“From improving site safety with the Spillard PPI system, to overcoming complex logistical hurdles, we are delivering results that will have a lasting impact.

“It is a real team effort and I am proud of what we have achieved so far.”

SRP’s roof slab concrete pour gets underway

Posted on February 13, 2025 by helent

The placing, compacting, and screeding of the concrete was led by a team of 11 people with support from engineers, marshals and technicians.

“If all goes to plan, and weather permitting, the final roof pour will happen at the end of April.”

National Apprenticeship Week – meet our PPP apprentices

Posted on February 13, 2025 by helent

As we continue our celebration of National Apprenticeship Week, meet Grace and Iain.

Before beginning her apprenticeship journey at Sellafield, Grace started her career in a property development company. When she discovered Sellafield and the opportunity to earn while she could learn, she felt it was the perfect fit.

Now in her third year of a civil and structural design degree apprenticeship, Grace continues her love of the construction and design environment.

In the past 18 months, her work has ranged from research tasks to gaining competence in AutoCAD, Excel, Revit and Navisworks. She has also supported two work experience students, used our Building Information Modelling (BIM) technology, and contributed to civil, structural and architectural teams.

Her main advice for anyone considering a degree apprenticeship is: “A degree apprenticeship will not be easy.

“You have to manage your work, college and personal life, but being fully immersed in the workplace alongside your studies is one of the best ways to learn.”

Meet Iain

Iain, who has recently completed a data analytics apprenticeship, wanted to expand his skill set and learn something new to support his role on PPP.

Iain works in our Project Services team as a performance reporting lead. He tracks and keeps all stakeholders informed about milestone progress across many corners of PPP.

Over the 18-month apprenticeship, he gained valuable insights into software systems such as Power Apps and Power Automate. Discovering these new tools showed him how much more is possible with modern performance reporting technology.

One of Iain’s biggest challenges was balancing his learning with a busy home life, especially with young children. By keeping in close communication with his line manager, he managed his workload and completed the course, which was all delivered virtually via MS Teams.

Now that he has completed his apprenticeship, Iain’s applying his new knowledge to develop automated reporting solutions, helping to streamline the production of our project status review (PSR) reports.

Iain said: “Despite being well into my professional career, learning is never too late. There are always new opportunities to improve skills and expertise in areas you may not have considered.”

Ella’s determination shines through with apprenticeship success

Posted on February 13, 2025 by helent

Resilience and determination were key for one of our apprentices who has recently completed her Level 4 Quality Practitioner apprenticeship.

Ella Dixon achieved her apprenticeship with one of our Key Delivery Partners (KDPs) Balfour Beatty Kilpatrick (BBK), marking the end of a journey filled with learning, challenges, and resilience.

Her interest in the nuclear industry began while studying design, engineering and construction at the Energy Coast University Technical College (UTC), in Lillyhall.

A Dream Placement week with Balfour Beatty on the Box Encapsulation Plant (BEP) project introduced her to different roles, and quality stood out as the perfect fit.

Ella said: “I knew, from UTC, that I wanted to learn and develop into the nuclear industry as I always had an interest in this field.”

During her apprenticeship, Ella developed key skills in quality improvement, risk management and analysis techniques, helping her to identify potential issues and improve workplace efficiency.

However, the journey wasn’t without its difficulties. In August 2023, she was made redundant from James Fisher Nuclear and, just two months later, her boyfriend Lloyd sadly passed away.

Determination

Despite these setbacks, she showed incredible determination, resuming her apprenticeship with BBK in February 2024 and passing her End Point Assessment first time in December.

She credits her success to the unwavering support of her colleagues at James Fisher Nuclear, her manager Jane, and her team at BBK. She shared: “The time and effort my team put in to help me complete my apprenticeship was limitless.”

Outside of work, Ella finds peace in the mountains. Walking with her “Walk for Lloyd” family, she completed all 214 Wainwrights in tribute to her partner, raising £33,000 for the charity Meningitis Now. She continues to challenge herself, with the National Three Peaks next on her list.

Reflecting on her journey, her advice to future apprentices would be: “Never be afraid to ask questions, buddy up with a mentor, and always seek out different explanations until things make sense.”

Celebrating PPP apprentices in National Apprenticeship Week!

Posted on February 13, 2025 by helent

It’s National Apprenticeship Week, an annual celebration which shines a light on how apprenticeships can help build skills for life. Our apprentices are vital in supporting Sellafield in delivering its mission of a clean and safe environment for future generations. Their dedication and enthusiasm, supported by their teams’ collaborative and encouraging environment, are helping them grow into the professionals of our nuclear future.

Contributing to this are some of our operative apprentices, delivering work for our Sellafield Product and Residue Store Retreatment Plant (SRP) and SIXEP Continuity Plant (SCP).

As we celebrate National Apprenticeship Week, please read below to learn more about their work as part of team PPP.

Kerris is a second year apprentice with our long-term partner NG Bailey

Kerris is gaining valuable experience working in our Sellafield Product and Residue Store Retreatment (SRP) team, working on containment systems, aspirating pipes, and various electrical tasks.

This hands-on exposure has broadened her understanding and boosted her confidence. Inspired by her school engineering classes and encouragement from family members in the trade, Kerris chose this path for its dynamic challenges and opportunities.

What she enjoys most about PPP is the variety in her daily work, which keeps her motivated and engaged. She feels well supported by her mentors and colleagues, who regularly check in on her progress and encourage open communication.

Outside of work, Kerris enjoys spending time with friends and walking in her free time.

When asked if she had any advice for someone beginning their apprenticeship, she added:

“Be confident, communicate, and embrace the learning process – it’s a journey worth taking. We all have to start somewhere. Don’t be afraid to ask for advice or help from those around you; they’re there to support you

Charlie Agenew is an apprentice joiner with William King Construction

Charlie is a new apprentice, starting his journey five weeks ago joining our SIXEP Continuity Plant (SCP) team.

Though he is at the beginning of his training, he has already immersed himself in learning the ropes and adjusting to the fast-paced environment on site.

Charlie chose joinery because of its practical nature and the satisfaction of creating something tangible.

He appreciates the welcoming atmosphere at PPP, where supervisors and teammates have made him feel comfortable and supported.

When asked what his advice would be to someone considering an apprenticeship, he said:

“Embrace the challenge for what it is; it will benefit you in the long run. You’ll face challenges you haven’t had before, but learning to overcome them is rewarding and helps shape you to be a better person and helps you build a more rewarding career.”

Declan Faulkner is a fourth-year apprentice from Altrad, working on our SIXEP Continuity Plant (SCP)

In his fourth year, Declan is nearing the completion of his training. Over the years, he has built the confidence to tackle complex tasks and develop technical skills that have prepared him for a promising future.

Declan credits his interest in engineering to his fascination with cars, which motivated him to pursue a career in the trade.

When asked about his experiences and advice from working in his PPP team, he said:

“I work with a great team on site. All my colleagues and supervisors are approachable and always willing to help.

“I feel supported in my role, with regular check-ins to ensure I stay on track. For my overall experience, I like how collaborative the environment is. This has stood out for me as it has been different to how other sites I’ve worked on operate.

“My advice to aspiring apprentices would be to stick with the program as confidence and skills grow with time and experience.”

Jessica Todd, is a second-year electrical apprentice with NG Bailey

Jessica has been developing her skills in containment systems on the SRP project. While her classroom learning focuses on domestic electrics, her on-site work has expanded her practical experience in industrial applications.

Jessica’s passion for electrical work stems from her early exposure to engineering in school, which helped her discover her interest in this field.

When asked about her experience working at PPP, she said:

“I really value the supportive environment at PPP, and my supervisors and colleagues encourage me to check in regularly with them about my progress.

“I have learned that teamwork and good communication will be key to my success, giving me the confidence to learn and try new things to grow in my role.”

Jessica enjoys spending time outdoors and walking in her free time, a simple but refreshing hobby that balances her demanding work life. Her advice to newcomers? Stay determined —every challenge is an opportunity to grow and thrive.

Keep an eye out for more features from our apprentices!

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Supplier Spotlight: Balfour Beatty Kilpatrick

Posted on February 6, 2025 by helent

In PPP’s first supplier spotlight of 2025, we’re featuring our key delivery partner Balfour Beatty Kilpatrick.

Balfour Beatty Kilpatrick (BBK) joined our PPP team in 2021 after winning a long-term heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) contract alongside MARCH. In 2022, BBK was also appointed as our long-term electrical and instrumentation provider, alongside NG Bailey and for mechanical and pipework, along with Altrad Babcock.

The frameworks were procured under Sellafield Ltd‘s Multi Project Procurement (MPP) model which encourages long-term collaboration throughout the supply chain, enhanced project delivery, and paves the way for greater economic and social impact in the West Cumbria region.

Watch our video by clicking here to hear more from BBK team members who talk about their rich history with Sellafield, how the team is contributing to our safety culture, the scope of their work on our major projects, and their investment in people, and more.

Sir Robert McAlpine aid Creating Careers in Construction cohort

Posted on February 6, 2025 by helent

One of PPP’s Key Delivery Partners, Sir Robert McAlpine (SRM) has aided a Creating Careers in Construction employability programme focused on adults looking at a career change or entering the sector.

SRM collaborated with All Together Cumbria, to deliver a session for their Creating Careers in Construction cohort, helping adults currently out of work to gain extra skills.

They used their 13m cable stay bridge, which can be used to support the understanding of STEM and construction careers, in a session with 11 adults, held at Lakes College West Cumbria.

SRM representatives discussed career opportunities within civil engineering and construction and the cohort erected and dismantled the bridge.

Claire Louise Chapman, Social Impact Lead for SRM, said: “This is the first time we have used our STEM bridge resource with adults, and it was an opportunity to talk, in more detail, about routes into our sector, entry requirements and to meet enthusiastic and capable individuals who are looking to work in construction.

“The group was fantastic, very competent and focused and we’re glad they enjoyed the session.”

Andy Dodds, of All Together Cumbria, said: “The use of the STEM bridge for the Creating Careers in Construction cohort was very useful.

“The cohort have been using the Skills Builder framework to develop essential skills throughout the programme to support their journey to employment.

“The STEM bridge allowed the participants to develop these skills further, with the activity lending itself to all eight essential skills but particularly problem solving, teamwork, creativity and leadership.

“The group really enjoyed the activity and the practical nature of the session complemented the classroom study they were completing for their CSCS card.

“The session also provided the opportunity for the group to meet and interact with another employer, to whom they could display professional behaviours and gain an insight into the careers available.”

Matt makes a lasting impact at PPP

Posted on February 6, 2025 by helent

A supervisor on the SIXEP Continuity Plant (SCP) is making a lasting impact through his leadership and commitment to high standards.

Matt Devlin, a supervisor for William King Construction, part of our PPP supply chain, takes pride in seeing his team grow and succeed, while creating a safe, efficient working environment on-site.

He manages a team responsible for blockwork, ensuring that work areas are kept tidy and controlled to maintain safety and efficiency. He speaks passionately about his team’s progress, explaining how rewarding it is to see younger workers step up and deliver high-quality work.

Matt is especially proud of his team’s ability to handle complex tasks, showing both skill and initiative.

Having worked alongside many of his current team members on previous projects, Matt values the strong team spirit and mutual respect they share. He credits his colleagues for helping him transition into a supervisory role, highlighting their willingness to offer advice and support. He admits he’s still learning, but feels confident knowing his team always has his back.

Matt said: “I’m proud to work at PPP, the opportunities here are massive, and everyone is willing to help you get where you want to be. Whether it’s supervision, management, or quality and safety roles, the career paths are there, and the long term prospects make it a great place to be.”

Matt Devlin’s impact show how strong leadership and teamwork can drive success on site, making a meaningful contribution to project delivery progress at PPP.