Ukraine: Serious concern at Chernobyl workers’ plight
Ukrainian nuclear authorities told the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) on 8 March that the safety of the Chernobyl nuclear power plant could be compromised by the “dangerous and stressful” situation facing safety critical staff at the installation.
The regulator told IAEA director general Rafael Mariano Grossi it was essential measures were taken to rotate some 210 technical personnel and guards who have been working there since Russian forces took control of the site almost two weeks ago. The Ukrainian regulator added that the staff still had access to food and water, and medicine to a limited extent. However, it said the situation for the staff was worsening.
IAEA head Rafael Grossi has repeatedly stressed that staff operating nuclear facilities must be able to rest and work in regular shifts, stating this is crucial for overall nuclear safety. The UN nuclear technology watchdog said the capacity to make decisions free of undue pressure is among ‘the seven indispensable pillars of nuclear safety and security’. “I’m deeply concerned about the difficult and stressful situation facing staff at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant and the potential risks this entails for nuclear safety. I call on the forces in effective control of the site to urgently facilitate the safe rotation of personnel there,” Grossi said. Read more: IAEA update 8 March 2022. Daily Mail. Source: Risks 1035
