Framatome receives top marks in NRC safety review

"We are very proud of this milestone that demonstrates our employees' dedication to safety and quality at our manufacturing facilities around the world," said Lionel Gaiffe, senior executive vice president, Framatome Fuel Business Unit. "The latest review with the NRC confirms our commitment to a continuous improvement environment and an expectation our customers can count on from their fuel supplier."

The NRC review, conducted every two years, assesses four major categories for fuel manufacturing: Safety Operations, Radiological Controls, Facility Support, and Other Areas. This review confirmed the Richland facility's safe and secure operations, protecting public health and the environment during the 2022-23 period.

"This positive review is a reflection of contributions from everyone in our organization and their commitment and attention to detail when it comes to safety and quality," said Richland Site Manager Lance Stephens. "Our workforce adheres to the highest standards to ensure we deliver low-carbon energy products to our customers for their safe and reliable operations 365 days a year."

Framatome's Richland facility has over 55 years of manufacturing and fuel expertise. The facility is set to deliver the next generation of light water reactor fuel and fuel for new reactor designs. It received the first 40-year nuclear fuel fabrication license renewal from the NRC in 2009 and plans to modify its license to deliver fuel above 5 weight percent of U235 as part of its Advanced Fuel Management program. The Richland facility is licensed to operate until 2049.