Ensuring Worker Safety: Innovations at Haiyang Nuclear Power Plant in Shandong, China

Safety is a top priority at the Haiyang Nuclear Power Plant in Shandong province, where over 9,000 workers are involved in the construction of the third and fourth reactors. The scale of this construction project necessitates stringent safety measures to protect the well-being of all personnel on site.

Advanced Monitoring Technology

Each worker on the site is equipped with a recording device, which they must wear at all times. Before starting their work, particularly welders, must place the camera in a way that documents every step of their operations. At the end of their shifts, the data collected is uploaded to an intelligent supervision system designed for thorough oversight. This system not only records activities but is also backed by an artificial intelligence surveillance framework, guaranteeing that safety protocols are adhered to around the clock.

The Haiyang Nuclear Power Plant serves as a benchmark illustrating China’s commitment to maintaining exceptional standards in the construction of its nuclear energy facilities. Managed by Shandong Nuclear Power Co, a subsidiary of the State Power Investment Corporation, the facility has been operational with two reactors and has begun construction on two additional reactors as of July 2022, which are anticipated to commence operations by 2027.

Safety Certifications and Record Keeping

In a project as complex as nuclear facility construction, distinguishing welding operations necessitates specific certifications. Zhang Zhongwei, deputy head of Shandong Nuclear Power Co's engineering department, emphasizes that rigorous documentation is crucial to deter unauthorized personnel from engaging in welding tasks. This process also enables welders to verify their own work quality.

The intelligent supervision system effectively tracks the locations and movements of all 9,164 workers. With 981 cameras strategically placed throughout the site, the system ensures comprehensive monitoring of construction activities, thereby averting potential collisions among the numerous tower cranes operating simultaneously on a site that is as expansive as four soccer fields.

Collision Avoidance Mechanisms

During the peak operational phase of the initial construction stages, 12 tower cranes were in use. To minimize hazards associated with crane operations, the monitoring system is equipped with features that alert operators when cranes approach one another within a 20-meter radius, activating automatic brakes if they come closer than 15 meters. This safety mechanism plays a crucial role in maintaining a risk-free working atmosphere.

Zhang shared that all safety monitoring data is preserved for three months, while quality oversight data is stored for six to nine months, as mandated by relevant regulations. The AI-enabled cameras are capable of detecting unsafe behaviors, such as whether workers are adhering to seatbelt requirements during crane operations.

Real-Time Safety Oversight

A team of five safety officers from various subcontracting firms continually reviews live footage to identify potential safety breaches. This collaborative effort is essential for identifying risks that might emerge outside their immediate operational zones. When serious safety concerns arise, immediate guidance is provided to correct issues, and daily safety meetings are held to discuss lessons learned and avoid future incidents.

The commitment to safety at the Haiyang Nuclear Power Plant represents not only adherence to regulations but reflects a proactive approach to safeguarding the workforce in high-stakes environments such as nuclear energy generation. The implementation of these innovative safety measures underscores a forward-thinking mindset, paving the way for secure construction practices that prioritize both efficiency and employee welfare.