Explosion and fire at Flamanville nuclear power plant

• 7 years ago (2017-02-10)
• David Flin

Europe 1061 Nuclear 639 Operations 4

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A fire and explosion took place at EDF’s Flamanville nuclear power plant in northern France. At least five people suffered light injuries in the blast. EDF has confirmed that it has shut down reactor No 1 of the two reactor plant, adding that there is no nuclear risk.

The fire occurred in the turbine hall of Unit One. A representative of the local prefecture said: “It is a significant technical event, but it is not a nuclear accident.

No-one was hurt in the incident, but five workers reported feeling ill, and were evaluated for smoke inhalation. According to Le Monde , plant operators have ruled out an act of malice, and suggest that the fire and explosion were due to overheating, although an official cause has not yet been determined.

The French Nuclear Safety Authority (ASN) said that the fire originated in a fan beneath an alternator, according to a report in The Independent.

Construction has been ongoing at Flamanville to build the next-generation EPR.