Firearms and Ammunition at Coal Plants

Maintenance personnel at coal plants use firearms (i.e., shotguns) to remove boiler slag, which is the buildup of molten ash. The objective of this evaluation was to determine if firearms and ammunition at coal plants are properly accounted for and safeguarded. In summary, we determined TVA does not have standardized guidance related to the accountability of firearms and ammunition used at coal plants. Instead, each plant has implemented individualized accountability processes. Although three plants have written guidance related to accounting for and safeguarding firearms and ammunition, two plants did not. Our review of the written guidance and actual practices utilized at each plant found they were insufficient to account for and safeguard firearms and ammunition. Additionally, a firearm sent to Cumberland Fossil Plant by TVA Police & Emergency Management could not be located by plant personnel.