John Large — Independent Nuclear Safety Consultant (1943–2018)

Career and approach

Large built a reputation as an independent technical expert who combined engineering experience with radiation and safety analysis. He provided detailed, readable reports aimed at both specialists and the wider public, and he often served as an expert witness in regulatory and legal processes. His work emphasized practical engineering judgement, transparent explanation of assumptions, and conservative interpretations of available data.

Notable investigations and public work

• He produced independent analyses following the 2011 Fukushima Daiichi nuclear accident and reported on potential releases and the performance of containment measures.
• Large supplied technical evidence in the Friends of the Earth legal action related to the failure of the steam generators at the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station in California in 2013, a case that attracted considerable public attention and regulatory scrutiny. See the supporting material at Friends of the Earth case material.
• His commentary and reports were sought by media outlets, environmental groups and professional bodies when complex technical issues needed independent review; some of this coverage and selected reports are available via related resources.

Legacy and significance

Large helped make technical aspects of nuclear safety accessible to non-specialists without sacrificing engineering rigor. By providing independent, peer-readable assessments he contributed to public dialogue about nuclear risk, accountability and regulatory oversight. His work illustrated how specialists can influence policy debates and legal outcomes through transparent analysis.

John Large died on 3 November 2018 after a heart attack. He is remembered in the nuclear and environmental communities for his forensic approach to safety questions and for using engineering expertise in public-interest cases.