$43K Fine Proposed For Oyster Creek Shipment That Exceeded Radiation Limits

LACEY, NJ — After shipping out a package that exceeded radiation limits, Holtec International is facing potential fines.

The levels were more than double the federal limit, according to Holtec's inspection report.

The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) proposed a $43,750 fine for the package, containing decommissioning equipment, which exceeded regulatory transportation limits. The package was shipped in an open transport vehicle from the former Oyster Creek power plant site to the Indian Point site in Buchanan, New York. Holtec owns and is decommissioning both plants.

As the elevated radioactivity levels were contained to the top of the package which was inaccessible during transit, there was no impact to the public, the NRC said.

“This enforcement action reinforces that the NRC will hold licensees accountable if they don’t meet the requirements,” said NRC Region I Administrator Raymond Lorson. “We expect nuclear plant personnel to be diligent and ensure that no shipments are leaving their facilities that could in any way adversely affect the public.”

The incident happened this past May and was documented by the NRC in an August inspection report.

Holtec admitted to having “less than adequate oversight and risk determination” in their response to the NRC.

The company also said it took actions to prevent further violations.

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