Where and When to Observe

DOE-EM-STD-5505-96

facility, the assessor may review the work documentation and applicable facility operating and

radiological control procedures before the observation. This will allow the assessor to become

familiar with the guidelines to be used as an expectation baseline for the observation. While

observing the operation, the assessor should watch the performance of as many operations

personnel as possible and take notes on what is observed. Finally, the assessor should review

these notes to identify any apparent deviations from requirements and determine the follow up

actions necessary to validate or disprove them.

5.8.1.3 Where and When to Observe. Observations can be conducted the entire time that the

assessor is at an activity. Observations can take place during scheduled activities (drills,

maintenance operations, system alignments, etc.) or can be conducted during activity

walkthroughs and tours. The activity plan of the day or plan of the week should aid in identifying

the time and place for observing scheduled activities.

5.8.1.4 Stop Work Authority. In general, assessors should be familiar with and abide by the

Operations Office's policy concerning stop work authority. While observing an operation, if an

unsafe situation arises in which operators fail to recognize a potential safety concern, the assessor

has a responsibility to point this out to the operators. Having the safety concern pointed out, the

operators should correct the problem. If they do not, the next step might be to contact the work

supervisor so that he or she can put a stop to the unsafe work. If the situation requires immediate

action to prevent personal injury, the assessor must be the authority in stopping the unsafe work.

An assessor who stops unsafe work should notify the team leader immediately. The team leader

will take the necessary steps to inform activity management.

5.8.2 Interview. During any assessment, the interview process will be an important

information-gathering tool. Interviews are an effective method of determining level of

knowledge and familiarity with activity policies and procedures. An interview can be the key

step in following up on leads. To ensure that all relevant information is obtained efficiently and