Wireless Upgrades Strengthen Hanford Cleanup Communications

Workers with Hanford Field Office contractor Hanford Mission Integration Solutions install a wireless antenna that connects a remote facility to Hanford’s computer network in support of preservation work at the B Reactor National Historic Landmark.

RICHLAND, Wash. — With an eye toward the future, the Hanford Site’s wireless computer network is getting a boost to support evolving cleanup needs.

After operating on the current platform for nearly 10 years, the site's wireless network connections across the Central Plateau and remote facilities are getting upgraded by Hanford Field Office contractor Hanford Mission Integration Solutions (HMIS) to improve performance and better support the cleanup mission.

“Modern, dependable communications are critical to the Hanford cleanup mission,” said Mike Eddy, federal information technology infrastructure program manager for the Hanford Field Office. “By upgrading wireless capabilities and testing new technologies for remote locations, we are building a stronger network to support current operations and future cleanup challenges.”

The upgrade is expected to triple network speeds and improve efficiency across areas of the Central Plateau where wireless service supports daily operations. Because of Hanford’s large footprint — 580 square miles — and limitations on installing fiber optic lines, wireless technology plays an important role in connecting groundwater pump-and-treat operations, construction zones and remote monitoring systems.

To expand connectivity even further, HMIS’ Information Management Services team is also testing satellite internet services in areas where fiber networks cannot reach. This technology is currently being tested at several construction trailers, providing another option for connecting remote facilities.