Security
Built-in Security
The reactor and most radioactive materials at Palisades are within a 3˝ foot thick, leak-tight, steel-reinforced concrete containment structure. The reinforcing steel bars in the structures are 2˝ to 3 inches in diameter. The plants are among the strongest structures built by man. They are designed to safeguard plant personnel and the community even under the most catastrophic scenarios. Studies have shown that nuclear plant containment structures can survive direct crashes of aircraft. The design of U.S. nuclear power plants makes a nuclear accident like the one at Chernobyl impossible.
Security Redundancies
The Palisades Power Plant has several layers of security. Access to the controlled property is restricted to identified personnel only. Roadways are controlled by multiple barricades. Access to the plants themselves is restricted to employees who have passed an in-depth security background check and who undergo a lengthy entry and exit search process at our security checkpoint. Within the plants, access to sensitive areas is even further restricted. The plants and property are monitored around the clock by well-trained, armed security guards, both at guard stations and in constant patrols. Double fencing with barbed wire at various perimeters is equipped with television monitors.
The Security Umbrella
A “first layer” of protection is now provided by the federal government and its powerful security resources--including military air cover and aircraft interdiction, the National Guard patrolling on-site and the Coast Guard patrolling adjacent waters.
Enhancing Our Security
Since 9/11, additional security measures at Palisades include increased surveillance activities, greater restrictions on persons and deliveries entering the site, and further support from and coordination with local, county, state and federal law enforcement authorities.