Project Overview

Professional Systems Engineering, LLC performed threat assessment and risk mitigation studies and developed a conceptual design to upgrade the perimeter security systems and procedures for the Donald C. Cook Nuclear Power Station. The plant has the capacity to produce 1020 megawatts through the pressurized water reactors. The project included a site assessment and preparation of a report and conceptual design. Recommendations were made to modify protected area barriers, establish bullet-resistant defensive positions, replace the soil for stabilization, and upgrade intrusion detection system, CCTV system, and lighting. PSE also prepared a detailed cost estimate.

PSE developed a conceptual design to upgrade the vital area security system. The design included enhancement of vital area barriers, addition and replacement of CCTV surveillance equipment, and enhancement of the interior intrusion detection system. The design also included new conduit and cable, seismic supports, and interface to the existing security system and the existing CAS and SAS consoles.

Under a tight timetable established by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), PSE adapted a 20-year-old nuclear security infrastructure to accommodate new technologies. This enhancement, in response to recent terrorist threats and attacks, established a higher level of ability to neutralize many threats perceived by the plant operators and security staff.

Services Provided

Threat Assessment and Concepts
  • Protected area barrier design
  • New defensive position recommendations
  • Vital area barrier design
  • Upgrades to central and secondary alarm system consoles

Critical Enhancements
  • New CCTV surveillance systems
  • Perimeter intrusion detection systems (PIDS) enhancement
  • New critical infrastructure
  • New entrance gate barriers and controls