The Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR) has removed Sellafield, the world's largest plutonium storage facility, from special measures concerning its physical security.

This decision follows notable enhancements in the site's security arrangements, allowing for routine inspections rather than the previously required enhanced oversight.

Sellafield, located in Cumbria, England, is responsible for storing and managing decades of nuclear waste from power generation and weapons programs.

Despite these advancements in physical security, the ONR has expressed ongoing concerns regarding Sellafield's cybersecurity.

The site remains under significantly enhanced attention for cybersecurity, with collaborative efforts underway to address the identified issues.

In October 2024, Sellafield Ltd was fined £332,500 for cybersecurity shortfalls between 2019 and 2023, following a prosecution by the ONR.

The investigation revealed that the company failed to meet its own cybersecurity standards, leaving sensitive nuclear information vulnerable to potential cyber threats.

The ONR's decision to transition Sellafield to a routine regulatory regime for physical security reflects the site's progress in enhancing its security measures.

However, the persistent cybersecurity challenges underscore the need for continued vigilance and improvement in protecting critical infrastructure.

Sellafield Ltd has acknowledged the cybersecurity failings and has been implementing measures to rectify the issues, including changes in IT management and the establishment of a new data center.

The company has expressed its commitment to enhancing its cybersecurity protocols to prevent future incidents.

The ONR continues to monitor Sellafield's security and cybersecurity performance to ensure that the necessary improvements are sustained and that the site operates safely and securely.