Lifting Operation Safety Management in AP1000 Nuclear Plant Project

As a third-generation nuclear power plant design, construction of the Westinghouse AP1000 incorporates the characteristics of modular construction and the “Open-Top” lifting method, which results in many kinds of lifting operations, whose potential failure creates increased risk to key equipment and construction personnel. Lifting by its very nature is high risk. Based on traditional safety management practices utilized at the project, lift operation characteristics were analyzed, and procedures and processes developed to manage the risk. These developed aspects included: lifting operation procedures; a construction scheme review/approval process; work planning/risk mitigation; equipment inspections; personnel certification requirements; training; crew management; special inspections; lessons learned utilization; discipline management; emergency management; and safety culture development. The authors believe that the safety management approaches discussed in this paper can provide guidance in conducting safe lift operations in other nuclear power plant projects.