Metz, France

1965 – Appendix J to Historical Record
National Archives of Canada

General

High standards in nuclear safety have been achieved at each of 3 and 4 Wings during the reporting period. However, a certain number of problems associated with the nuclear weapon system GSE, the centerline rack, the 4 Wing Dog Kennels and security manning still prevent the Air Division from achieving a perfect nuclear safety record.

Nuclear Safety Programs

A total of nine Dull Swords occurred during 1965 and the majority of them can be assessed as equipment deficiencies. The centre-line rack with its inadequate front reel device, the sink rate of the L24 forklift arms and the weak tow bar and poorly designed emergency braking of the MHU12M trailer are the primary causes of these Dull Swords. It should be noted that although all of these problems are in the process of being resolved, the time factors involved cannot be controlled by the RCAF because of nuclear safety restrictions.

The dogs at 4 Wing are still being adversely affected by engine noises from the aircraft run-up pad. This problem will resolved by the relocation of the dog kennels in 1966. The strength of the security force is hovering at 10% below establishment and various measures such as doubling-up aircraft on QRA pads, erection of watchtowers around the SOS site and the proper interpretation of existing orders are being taken to relieve manpower shortages.

Nuclear Safety Achievements

The following nuclear safety milestones were achieved during the past year:

1. two Joint Safety and Security Inspections at each of 3 and 4 Wings.
2. one nuclear safety survey at each of 3 and 4 Wings.
3. the operational review of the CF-104/MK28 Weapon System.

All of these milestones confirmed that the nuclear safety programme of both nuclear capable wings were highly satisfactory.