Frequently Asked Questions cont'd

DOE-HDBK-1148-2002

Q22

What lessons were learned at LLNL from following the N&S Process?

A22

Lessons learned from the LLNL N&S Process application are summarized below, and

are also reflected in the body of the N&S Handbook.

The N&S Process should include all ES&H aspects of the performance and

management of work. Work activities are performed within the total programmatic and

safety environment of the institution. Selection of safety standards is best done based

on the hazards associated with the work and an understanding of the management

philosophy and processes. Also, standards for the management of safe work are often

critical first line elements for creating a safe work environment and should be considered

in selecting a complete WSS set.

Since the N&S Process is an integral part of ISM, the activities should be initiated at the

same time. ISM and the N&S Process have a synergistic relationship. Standards

identification is a key step in the ISM work functions. Similarly, having a strong

foundation in the principles and functions of ISM will allow the N&S Closure Process to

proceed more efficiently and provide a context for the selection of both technical and

management standards.

Complete documentation supporting justification of adequacy of proposed standards

should be provided to the Confirmation Team. The N&S Process identifies various types

of documentation and the responsible party as a normal part of the Process. A complete

and integrated set of documents describing and documenting the Process is necessary

before confirmation to permit the Confirmation Team to understand and evaluate the

Process. This information should be provided to the Confirmation Team 3-5 weeks

before their site visit to allow adequate time for review.

Confirmation Team members should make a separate visit to tour facilities and become

familiar with the site. The Confirmation Team needs to have adequate information,

understanding and first hand experience of typical work environments and their safety

systems. A separate visit allows sufficient dedicated time for site familiarization and a

helpful background for review of documentation prior to the confirmation visit.

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