Streamlining Activity-Level Hazard Analysis

DOE-HDBK-1163-2003

4.6

Streamlining Activity-Level Hazard Analysis

An analysis of individual work activities/tasks (i.e., maintenance, equipment upgrades, etc) is

needed in order to understand the potential dangers that workers face during the course of their

duties. This evaluation should rely on hazards information collected, as well as findings from

facility-level analysis, and should be inclusive of all sources of hazards including hazardous

chemicals, excessive physical stresses, radioactive materials, or other potential dangers.

Activity-level hazard analysis should be integrated with work planning and control processes and

institutionalized within procedures. An effective approach used at many DOE sites is a work

screening process that considers the complexity of work to be performed, personnel experience

and potential hazards associated with job tasks. These factors determine the necessary safety

disciplines that should be involved in the activity hazards analysis process, the level of analysis

required, and the documentation (e.g., work permits) required to authorize work.

Several DOE sites have saved considerable resources by using computer-based tools to help

automate activity-level hazard screening and analysis. Most of these systems provide electronic

linkages to standards, regulations and required permits, as well as specific facility and hazards

information. Some systems go even further by providing checklists or questions that help guide

planners and safety professionals through the hazard analysis process.

While these systems can be valuable tools, they must be used with care so as not to replace sound

human judgment and analytical thinking. However, used properly, these systems can enhance

communication among various safety disciplines, work planners, and other decision makers.

Sources of Information on Activity-Level Hazard Analysis:

DOE-STD-1120-98, Integration of Environment, Safety and Health into Facility

Disposition Activities

DOE/EH-0486, Integrating Safety and Health During Facility Disposition, with Lessons

Learned from PUREX

Hanford Automated Job Hazards Analysis Tool

( http://tis.eh.doe.gov/ewp/sites/hanford/AJHA_description0801.pdf)

5.0

References

10 CFR 70, "Domestic Licensing of Special Nuclear Material"

10 CFR 830, "Nuclear Safety Management"

10 CFR 835, "Occupational Radiation Protection"

10 CFR 835, Chronic Beryllium Disease Prevention Program"

10 CFR 1021, "National Environmental Policy Act Implementing Procedures"

29 CFR 1910.119 and 1926.64, "Process Safety Management of Highly Hazardous Chemicals"

29 CFR 1910.120 and 1926.55, "Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response"