MAS urges small manufacturers to get ‘Fit for Nuclear’

The Manufacturing Advisory Service (MAS) has joined with the Nuclear Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre to roll-out Fit for Nuclear (F4N), which lets companies measure their capabilities against industry standards and helps them bridge gaps to meet requirements. Backed by partners including Areva and EDF Energy, the initiative offers "a business improvement journey that will identify strategy, implement new processes, secure necessary accreditations and provide supplier matching opportunities". It also offers participating SMEs the chance to apply for match funding for business improvement or R&D projects. Steven Barr, head of MAS, explained: "There is great potential for advanced manufacturing SMEs to build business in the civil nuclear sector. Following approval for Hinkley Point, we can expect these opportunities to increase in new build, as well as in decommissioning and existing station maintenance. "We recognise they need help to understand the nature of the opportunities that are opening up and to prepare for them." He added: "Working side-by-side with the Nuclear AMRC, we are widening access to F4N and ensuring more smaller manufacturers receive expert on-the-ground support and funding to take advantage of this multi-bullion pound market." To date, around 150 companies have completed the online F4N assessment, with most receiving ongoing support and development from Nuclear AMRC.