Difficulty

DOE-HDBK-1078-94

ATTACHMENT 4

1 = NEGLIGIBLE--Improper task performance does not result in unnecessary exposure nor does it

make any difference in plant operation (no lost production). Neither does it pose any personnel or

environmental safety consequences.

2 = UNDESIRABLE--Improper task performance may result in a dose considered inconsistent with

ALARA or cause some undesirable consequences to plant operation (reduced production capability

or some potential environmental impact).

3 = SERIOUS--Improper task performance may result in exceeding plant or equipment operating

limits, which may require moderate corrective action.

4 = SEVERE--Improper task performance may result in equipment damage or personnel injury

requiring extensive corrective action.

5 = EXTREMELY SEVERE--Improper task performance may result in serious exposure or

contamination, implying possible health consequences or plant/equipment consequences that may

be enormously time consuming or costly to correct.

Difficulty

This scale is used to rate the difficulty of performing a task in the typical setting or location, rather than

in unusual circumstances or in locations rarely encountered. In judging task difficulty, consider the

knowledge required to perform the task or the mental activity required. Rate task difficulty using the

following scale:

1 = VERY EASY--The mental activity required is low, and the degree of task complexity is low.

2 = SOMEWHAT EASY--The mental activity required is low, and the degree of task complexity is

medium.

3 = MODERATELY DIFFICULT--The mental activity required is medium, and the degree of task

complexity is medium.

4 = VERY DIFFICULT--The mental activity required is medium to high, and the degree of task

complexity is high.

5 = EXTREMELY DIFFICULT--The mental activity required is medium to high, and the degree of

task complexity is very high.

The examples below illustrate how to make your ratings for each task. The ratings shown in these examples

are not meant to be accurate for any given job, but to show the correct way to mark your responses.