Tokai 2 and safety measures (2)

March 7, 2014

Plant operator gives pre-safety screening briefing

http://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/english/news/20140307_32.html 

The operator of a nuclear power plant near Tokyo has briefed local authorities on new safety measures before applying for government approval to restart the facility.

Officials from Japan Atomic Power Company gave the briefing about the Tokai No. 2 plant to the Ibaraki prefectural government on Friday.

The officials reportedly explained the planned installment of a filtered vent that they can use during accidents to lower pressure in containment vessels and emissions of radioactive substances. The measures also include making the plant's power cables fireproof.

The steps are aimed at meeting new requirements by regulators to prepare for tsunamis, earthquakes and fires.

The briefing came 2 days after the firm signed a memorandum with host municipality Tokai Village and 10 nearby municipalities. The document calls for an explanation by the operator before applying for screening.

The company says it will give similar briefings to the municipalities.

But there is no prospect of a restart anytime soon. The number of people living within 30 kilometers of the plant totals nearly one million -- the most for any nuclear power station in Japan.

The municipalities have made little progress in drawing up evacuation plans. The operator needs consent from the local governments.

Mar. 7, 2014 - Updated 08:13 UTC