Dive Summary:
- Southern California Edison is investigating the possibility that its San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station was sabotaged by a disgruntled employee last October.
- Engine coolant was found poured into the oil reservoir of a backup generator at the plant, which has been offline since early this year after a small leak was discovered.
- The potential for sabotage arose from contract negotiations and pressure from anti-nuclear groups; security at the plant has been increased during the investigation.
From the article:
Rancorous negotiations between the union and management, combined with pressure from anti-nuclear groups and a frustrated general public, have led to a steep decline in morale at the plant, according to the article. "While morale is as low as it has ever been and the environment is as chilled as it has ever been, no one I know could imagine doing such a thing,” an unnamed plant employee was quoted as saying. “First of all, the chances of getting caught are so high. But more importantly, what are you accomplishing? You're only endangering yourself and your coworkers and the surrounding public. I can't understand the logic behind it."On the other hand,” he said, “I'm also not completely surprised because the environment really is so harsh. People can do crazy things when they are under extreme stress." ....
