Conduct of Operations - STD-1128-98master0093

DOE-STD-1128-98

Guide of Good Practices for Occupational Radiological Protection in Plutonium Facilities

3.9

CONDUCT OF OPERATIONS

The organization and administration of operations should ensure that a high level of performance in

DOE facility operations is achieved through effective implementation and control activities.

Administration of operations activities should recognize that protection of the environment,

maintaining high-quality safety, and productivity are compatible goals. The DOE policies should

describe the standards of excellence under which the facility is expected to operate. Clear lines of

responsibility for normal and emergency conditions must be established. Effective implementation

and control of operating activities are achieved primarily by having readily accessible written

standards for operations, periodical monitoring and assessment of performance, and personnel

accountability for performance. For a more detailed discussion, see DOE Order 5480.19, Ch. 2,

Conduct of Operations Requirements for DOE Facilities (DOE, 2001c).

A high level of performance in DOE operations is accomplished by management establishing high

operating standards and then by communicating the operating standards to workers:

-- By providing sufficient resources to the operations department

-- by ensuring that personnel are well trained by closely monitoring performance in operations

-- by holding workers and their supervisors accountable for their performance in conducting

activities.

Senior management establishes operating standards, considering input from workers when

appropriate. Working-level personnel will more strongly support the standards when they have had

appropriate input into their development. The standards should define operating objectives,

establish expected performance levels, and clearly define responsibilities in plant operations.

Standards for operating activities should be integrated into operations department procedures and

programs. Operating standards should also be communicated to workers by training them in

operating practices and by having supervisors monitor and guide work involving facility operations.

Sufficient staff, facilities, equipment, and funding should be allocated to permit the operations

department to effectively perform its functions. Performance in operations should be closely

monitored by facility management, preferably using operating reports and goals, so that the

performance of the operations department can be effectively measured. Operations personnel

should be held accountable for their performance through supervisor counseling, performance

appraisals, and, when necessary, disciplinary measures. Remedial training should be provided

when appropriate.

The health physics organization, as a support element, must ensure that all aspects of radiation

safety are considered in the establishment of operations standards and policy. A well instituted

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