The impact of quality management systems during a pebble bed modular reactor project. A case study

Abstract

In the nuclear industry, Quality Management Systems are extremely important, especially if one wishes to improve public acceptance of radioactive solutions. There is normally minimum communication between the public and scientists, especially in nuclear science. People are not comfortable with nuclear technology, based on the past history of the Chernobyl catastrophe. Consequently, it is difficult to discuss important and sensitive issues like disposing of nuclear waste. Quality Management Systems can improve public confidence and communication. Integrated Management Systems in the project planning stage of the project can be a proactive step towards preventing unnecessary delays and costs. There is a perception that quality is implemented or executed at the implementation stage of the Project Life cycle. Most people believe that a Quality Management System is quality control only and forget the aspect of Quality assurance. The project managers are more concerned with finishing the project and saving costs. Quality holds together the three pillars of project management, which are schedule, costs and scope. There are a plethora of things that can go wrong if the Quality Management System is not implemented on time, like scope changes that are not captured, monitored and controlled. This can lead to scope creep, unnecessary costs and schedule overruns. If there is no cost control, the project can also overrun its budget and consequently be stopped. PBMR is the only company that is active in new nuclear projects in South Africa, except Koeberg, which was commissioned about thirty years ago.