UK Defence Journal

By Lisa West

24 October 2024

Source: https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/mod-outline-safety-steps-in-dismantling-submarines/

The Ministry of Defence (MOD) has outlined the steps being taken to ensure the safety of surrounding residential areas during the decommissioning of nuclear submarines at Rosyth Royal Dockyard.

This response came after Christine Jardine, MP for Edinburgh West, raised concerns on 16th October 2024 regarding the potential risks posed by the process.

Maria Eagle, Minister of State for Defence, provided a detailed answer, stating that “All the submarines currently stored at Rosyth have already been defueled, which has significantly reduced overall potential risk.”

She continued by noting that additional safety measures are in place, adding, “Further steps include contractual requirements with Babcock International around safety and environmental factors. These include regular sampling of surrounding waters and beaches, and dismantling one boat as a demonstrator to determine the safest methods before starting on other boats.”

Eagle also highlighted that the MOD, in conjunction with Babcock International, complies with the necessary permits and regulatory oversight. 

“In addition to the safety and environmental activities the Ministry of Defence and Babcock undertake, we also comply with permits and regulatory requirements from the Defence Nuclear Safety Regulator (DNSR), the Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR) and the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA).”

She further noted that annual emergency exercises are conducted with ONR, stating that these exercises help “plan and test for any potential incidents, in the very unlikely event that a significant issue may occur.”

These measures, according to the MOD, are designed to ensure the decommissioning process is carried out safely and with minimal risk to both the environment and nearby communities.

The comprehensive safety plan aims to reassure the public that the MOD remains committed to upholding the highest safety standards throughout the process at Rosyth Dockyard.