Screening of Multiple Hazard Types

DOE-HDBK-1163-2003

Sources Requiring the Collection of Hazards Information:

10 CFR 70.62 (Domestic Licensing of Special Nuclear Material)

NUREG-1520, Chapter 3, Integrated Safety Analysis and ISA Summary

(http://techconf.llnl.gov/cgi-bin/downloader/Part_70_lib/073-0161.pdf)

DOE HDBK-1100-96, Chemical Process Hazard Analysis

29 CFR 1910.119, Process Safety Management

4.3

Screening of Multiple Hazard Types

Hazard screening is a useful process that can help pinpoint the presence of certain hazard types

and does not require comprehensive or formalized analysis to develop a control strategy. Many

DOE sites use screening processes in conjunction with collection of hazard baseline information

to make decisions on the rigor of hazard analysis, safety documentation that may be required and

the processes required for work authorization. Screening is also routinely incorporated into work

planning activities through the use of checklists as a part of activity hazards analysis.

In most cases, hazard screening helps to identify standard industrial hazards (SIH) that are

routinely encountered. This includes hazards that (1) are well understood, (2) have adequate

safety guidance relative to their use, and (3) may be adequately controlled by compliance with

OSHA regulations or consensus standards. Examples of SIHs include small quantities of

hazardous materials (e.g., radiological or chemical) and occupational hazards typically associated

with mechanical presses, machine shops, forklifts, and heavy equipment operation.

The key to an effective screening process is that it encompasses a comprehensive listing of

multiple hazard types and has a basis linked to regulatory requirements. A composite list of

sample screening criteria is provided in Table 3, based on observed practices from various DOE

sites. These criteria are for information purposes only. Site-specific definitions should take

precedence over those used in the table.

While screenings are useful tools, users should bear in mind that SIHs must still be considered as

initiators for accidents involving other hazards. For example, flammable materials may be

screened out as an SIH, however, if the flammable materials could potentially cause a fire that

releases toxic or radiological materials, the flammable materials must be considered as a potential

initiator for a toxic material release. Additionally, SIHs can result in significant injury to workers

and, although well understood, may need to be further analyzed by a AHA.