For several years, POGO has been concerned about security officers at nuclear power plants being worked 60-72 hours per week to save money for the utility companies. This overwork can lead to sleeping guards and serious security lapses at the plants. A number of security officers at Peach Bottom Nuclear Power Plant are working close to 72 hours a week.
The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) has finalized Fitness-for-Duty rulemaking that prohibits this practice. The problem is that the rulemaking does not take effect for nearly two years.
The NRC has told POGO that if there is evidence that this practice is widespread in the industry--beyond Peach Bottom--it would consider accelerating the implementation of the rulemaking requirements. We have some examples, but we need more.
POGO would appreciate if security officers at nuclear power plants would contact us if there is evidence of 60-72 hour work weeks. POGO will not reveal the names of anyone who contacts us.
POGO can be contacted at 202-347-1122 or idrake@pogo.org.
-- Peter Stockton and Ingrid Drake
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