Even Homer Nods (Off To Sleep)

It’s kind of like the Simpsons . . . if Homer really had the lives of 40 million people throughout the region in his hands:

The guard was discovered about 2 p.m. on Aug. 26 during a routine check by an inspector for the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, an N.R.C. spokesman said.

. . .

The guard was stationed at a checkpoint outside a secured entrance to the plant’s operating area. To get through, a person must swipe a badge that matches their palm print, according to Jim Steets, a spokesman for the plant’s owner, Entergy Nuclear Northeast.

Neil Sheehan, the N.R.C. spokesman, said the inspector stood 8 to 10 feet from the guard and, for about 10 minutes, tried to rouse him. Finally, as the inspector raised his voice, the guard stood up.

The guard has been suspended, with pay, while an investigation is conducted. Tests for drug and alcohol were negative, Mr. Sheehan said.

Mr. Steets said the guard had worked at the plant for about five years. “This is a person’s life and career we’re looking at,” he said. “Clearly it’s unacceptable if he’s inattentive to duty at his post, but before making a final decision, we want to look at all the circumstances.”