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Second IAEA Technical Meeting on Physics and Technology of Inertial Fusion Energy Targets and Chambers 

San Diego, California, 17-19 June 2002

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NEW - SPECIAL ISSUE OF FUSION SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
 


LMJ Dependability and Safety

G. Thiell, X. de la Roncière*, M. Dupond*, G. Coureau, Ph. Joyer,

Commissariat à l’énergie atomique

Centre d’études scientifiques et techniques d’Aquitaine

B.P. 2

33114 Le Barp, France

* Commissariat à l’énergie atomique

Direction Ile de France

B.P. 12

91680 Bruyeres le Chatel

 

This paper describes the risks assessment on a complex system that uses new technologies: the MegaJoule Laser (LMJ). The main hazards for personnel in the Facility are exposures to hazardous levels of laser and nuclear radiations as well as high voltage. This paper highlights the steps towards obtaining the safety and security goals for LMJ, i.e. to assure safe operation, to put in place detection systems and means to prevent or limit serious accidents and finally, to limit the consequences on the environment and the workers.

A Preliminary Risk Analysis systematically identifies the technical hazards of the facility operations and then the Fault Tree Analysis indicate how they are mitigated by design, interlock and applicable safety procedures.

The target area requires special procedures to ensure safe entry. So, two main accidental scenarii in LMJ target area are emphasized: accidental release of radioactive contamination and workers exposure to hazardous levels of nuclear radiation.

To ensure safe and proper operation and maintenance of the LMJ Facility, access to the laser bays, power conditioning and target area will be restricted and strictly controlled. Moreover, to prevent the inadvertent operation of systems or equipment placed out of commission for maintenance, a formal approved procedural compliance will be written and protective barriers installed. Safety training requirements and compliance is also determined for the laser and target area Shot Directors and Operators.

The constraints on design, operation and maintenance of the Facility determined by this Safety Analysis will be presented and discussed.