Standards Reference Base

DOE-HDBK-1148-2002

can be implemented within expected resource and time constraints. The work of identifying

standards is carried out by the Identification Team, operating within the protocols and

documentation requirements previously established.

Experience has shown that properly performing the identification process will often require more

time than initially expected. Identification Team discovery time can be reduced if participants

are provided adequate training, a well thought out charter or statement of work from the

Convened Group, and strong liaison between the Team and the Convened Group (via the

Process Leader).

11.2

Standards Reference Base

The term "standards" is intended to have broad meaning. Standards are the expressed

expectations for performance of work. Standards may be reference points against which to

measure excellence or may become enforceable requirements (either under law or under

Department contract.) Standards includes: Federal, state, and local laws and regulations;

Department Orders; nationally and internationally recognized standards; and other documents

(such as industrial standards) that protect the environment and the safety and health of our

workers and the public. Standards are an accepted way of communicating to our workers and

the public the performance we expect in our daily operations. They are supportive of work, not

barriers or extra burdens.

The "starting point" for determination of which standards will be considered during application of

the N&S Process is a thorough understanding of the work and its associated hazards. The

WSS set is expected to include standards that, when properly implemented, will provide

reasonable assurance of adequate protection for workers, the public, and the environment. The

WSS set is expected to include all applicable requirements in federal, state, and local laws and

regulations, as well as other standards identified through the N&S Process which are necessary

and sufficient to provide adequate protection to workers, the public, and the environment.

Potential sources of such other standards include, but are not limited to, DOE directives, DOE

Technical Standards, and nationally and internationally recognized commercial consensus

standards.