Collaborative delivery of complex multi modal transport solutions

As wholly owned subsidiary companies of the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA), both Direct Rail Services (DRS) and International Nuclear Services (INS) have extensive and proven experience and expertise in the transportation of nuclear materials both in the UK and around the world. DRS has safely transported nuclear material over 5 million miles by rail on behalf of the entire UK nuclear industry, whilst INS and it’s subsidiary, Pacific Nuclear Transport Limited (PNTL), are recognised as the world’s most experienced nuclear shipping company having delivered over 180 shipments of new & spent fuel, active waste and specialist nuclear material over their 40 year history.This paper explains how DRS and INS have worked together extensively to successfully develop and deliver innovative multi-modal transport solutions for spent fuel, high level waste, MOX fuel and other special nuclear materials both domestically and for import / export. The long standing partnership between INS and DRS has resulted in the establishment of effective working relationships providing a high level of familiarity; enabling a valuable awareness of their respective policies, procedures, processes and expectations. These relations have proven crucial in challenging circumstances.The paper will provide specific case studies of how this affiliation has supported the ability to adopt a proactive, standardised and effective approach to enable reliable, safe and secure delivery and will include -How sharing of best practice supports planning, process improvements, interfaces and alignment.Sharing of resources supporting efficient working during peak demand.Good levels of communication supporting effective working practices.Focus on ‘right first time’ principles.Development of capabilities supporting improved asset efficiency.Maintaining and advancing a high performing, flexible and diverse workforce.