The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) has found that the Palisades nuclear plant failed to properly implement a radiation protection program during a February incident, leading to two violations during an inspection. Elevated airborne radiation was detected in a work area, but staff did not fully comply with necessary precautions or required communications regarding worker exposure. Additionally, there were issues with the monitoring of airborne radiation exposure among workers, with some results incorrectly labeled as "cross-contaminated." These violations come amid community concerns about the safety of reopening the aging plant, which has been delayed nearly a year. Palisades' owner, Holtec International, has begun installing fuel in the reactor and stated that steps have been taken to address the NRC's findings. Although some workers were exposed to higher radiation levels than expected, no one exceeded federal radiation dose limits. The NRC deemed the violations to have "very low safety significance" and did not impose penalties.
Fri, 04 Sep 2026 19:22:00 GMT | Michigan Public