Portland Docks are used for operational visits by nuclear powered submarines with two berths approved for use, otherwise called 'Operational Berths'. Nuclear powered submarines shut down their nuclear reactors when in harbour, and are equipped with extensive safety measures. It is highly unlikely that an accident involving a submarine reactor would occur, indeed the Royal Navy has been operating Nuclear powered submarines since the early 1960s and has a safety record that is second to none. In addition due to the design of a submarine nuclear reactor there is no risk of an 'atom-bomb' type explosion.

Dorset County Council, other Local Authorities and Emergency Services have a statutory duty laid down by Central Government to plan and prepare for emergency situations, in the highly unlikely event of a radioactive accident. This is called 'Emergency Preparedness'.

Dorset County Council's Emergency Planning Service has been working in conjunction with its partners of the Operational Berth Issues Group (OBIG) to plan for nuclear-related emergencies in compliance with Central Government legislation such as the 'Civil Contingencies Act 2004' and the 'Radiation Emergency Preparedness and Public Information Regulations' (REPPIR). These Regulations establish a framework for the protection of the public from radiation accidents or emergencies and have been the driver behind Dorset's planning for nuclear-related emergencies.

A booklet;  "Information in the event of a Radiation Emergency in Portland Port" (pdf, 1Mb) (opens in a new window) describes precautions to be taken in the unlikely event of such an emergency.

The  Portland Port Off-site Nuclear Reactor Emergency Plan (pdf, 987kb) (opens in a new window)  is also available, along with a guide to navigating the Plan (pdf, 678kb) (opens in a new window) . 

In compliance with REPPIR, member organisations of the OBIG will undertake a review and where necessary revise the plan and test the arrangements at suitable intervals not exceeding three years.

For further information please contact the Emergency Planning Service using the e-mail address provided below.

• Name: Dorset County Council Emergency Planning Service
  Email: epservice@dorsetcc.gov.uk
  Tel: 01305 224659
  Full details for Dorset County Council Emergency Planning Service