The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission has released findings from two investigations into an accident at the Quad Cities Nuclear Plant in Cordova. Constellation Energy has agreed on a set of actions to address misconduct and regulatory violations.
The inspections stem from an incident in 2023 when improperly closed coolant valves drained water from the Unit 1 reactor. The water sprayed two plant workers, who were then not properly tested for radiation exposure. The NRC ultimately found the exposure did not exceed federal safety limits.
But investigators found employees inaccurately documented the incident and deliberately failed to report it to federal regulators. One operator admitted to falsifying reports, fearing retaliation from management. Both workers have since been fired.
The NRC’s Confirmatory Order issued last month says Constellation has agreed to implement more safety and training measures, including a fleetwide survey of its nuclear plants. The NRC has yet to issue a decision on regulatory enforcement actions against the power plant operator.
