Considering the Impact of Minor Changes

DOE-STD-1073-2003

Configuration Management

5.1.2 Considering the Impact of Minor Changes

It is important to identify and consider even subtle changes under the configuration

management process. Changes that are perceived to be minor or insignificant can

significantly impact the functions of SSCs required to maintain safe operation or to

achieve mission objectives. They can also result in operation outside the approved safety

basis. A well-designed change control process should include a screening process to

determine if seemingly insignificant changes should have at least a cursory review by an

interdisciplinary group to confirm that there are no significant impacts from the proposed

change. In addition, the contractor must ensure that the USQ process is invoked and

applied to changes consistent with the requirements of 10 CFR Part 830 and the DOE-

approved USQ process to maintain the integrity of the safety basis.

5.1.3 Making Equivalent Changes

Changes that are shown to be equivalent changes do not need to be evaluated under the

change control process. Equivalent changes are hardware changes that:

continue to meet the design requirements for the equipment,

meet all interface requirements, and

do not impact the safety basis.

An example of an equivalent change would be replacement of a failed part with the same

make and model number part. However, as vendors sometimes change materials or

design of components without changing the model number, the contractor should ensure

that the design requirements continue to be met with the replacement part.

5.1.4 Using a Consistent Configuration Management Process

If multiple change control processes are used, they should be consolidated into a single,

consistent change control process that is both useful and effective. Unique change

control processes for specific types of changes, such as software changes, should be

integrated into the overall change control process for the activity. The change control

process may provide provisions for varying levels of review based on a documented

graded approach, as well as graded schedules for updating documents based upon their

relative importance. Facility managers should ensure that vendors and subcontractors use

the established process. All personnel in design, operations, and support organizations

that do work for the facility or activity should:

be trained on the change control process,

follow the associated procedures closely, and

be alert to activities that may not be planned or may occur without following

appropriate procedures.

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