Safety concerns rise at Sellafield amid proposed budget cuts

Sellafield, located in Cumbria, UK, has recently reported a rise in 'near misses,' incidents where workers nearly face harm. The GMB union has formally raised these safety concerns to Chancellor Rachel Reeves. Union leaders emphasize that any budget cuts to the taxpayer-owned Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA) would severely undermine safety protocols at nuclear facilities, including Sellafield and Dounreay in Scotland. The NDA reported a budget of £4 billion in the previous fiscal year. However, there are growing fears that funding reductions could lead to fewer resources for crucial safety measures and emergency preparedness. Specifically, a noted incident in 2023 amplified concerns, as it revealed some staff did not adhere to established emergency procedures. In light of these developments, the GMB union has expressed that a significant safety incident at Sellafield could have dire consequences, reaching beyond the local area. Additionally, they pointed out well-documented health risks associated with radiation exposure, asserting the necessity for proper management of nuclear materials to prevent potential leaks. While the NDA claims the reported increases in near misses are tied to conventional workplace accidents rather than nuclear safety, unions and safety advocates argue the implications of budget cuts could endanger lives and the environment. The government has stated its commitment to support the NDA’s ongoing mission to manage nuclear sites safely.