February 25, 2016

Less protective gear at Fukushima Daiichi

http://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20160225_02/

Progress with decontamination work at the crippled Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant means a uniform change of sorts for some of its workers. The plant's operator will let them work on decommissioning the facility without wearing protective gear in areas of low radiation.

The earthquake and tsunami almost 5 years ago devastated the plant in northeastern Japan.
Tokyo Electric Power Company has required workers decommissioning the facility to wear protective gear and 2 pairs of gloves. This can hinder movement and prevent precision work from being performed.

NHK has learned that TEPCO officials will widen the area where work can be done without protective gear starting next month.

The source close to the company told NHK that the decision came after they found out that they managed to lower the radiation level of the area.

Radiation decreased after TEPCO removed contaminated soil and put down pavement at the plant.