Reviewing and Validating a Lessons Learned Document

Lessons Learned Handbook:

DOE-HDBK-7502-95

Reviewing and Validating a Lessons Learned Document

Subject Matter Experts

For lessons learned requiring validation, the SME should complete an evaluation.

To ensure timely evaluation, an evaluation priority should be attached to each

lesson learned sent to the SME. For example, lessons may be designated as

either urgent (to be completed within 10 working days) or routine (to be

completed within 30 working days). A transmittal memo accompanying the

lesson should identify the priority and the date by which the evaluation is to be

completed.

The SME should determine the applicability and significance of the potential

lessons learned by evaluating the adequacy of current procedures, design

practices, status of regulatory compliance, etc. This evaluation process can be

aided by establishing classifications, or designators, for the SMEs to use when

evaluating potential lessons learned. One method is to classify potential lessons

learned as Not-Applicable, Applicable- No Action Required, or Applicable-Action

Required. Definitions and recommended actions for these classifications are:

Not-Applicable: This response may be used for a potential lesson learned

that does not meet the site-specific lessons learned program criteria.

Examples include employee concerns or complaints.

Applicable-No Action Required: This response may be used for a lesson

learned that meets the site-specific lessons learned program criteria but

does not require any change in site activities or programs. This

determination may be due to the fact that current procedures, training,

etc., already address the lesson learned being submitted. Examples may

include identifying good work practices, having a lesson learned identified

more than once, or a change in site practices due to an audit finding.

Applicable-Action Required: This response may be used for a lesson

learned that meets the site-specific lessons learned program criteria and

requires a change in site activities or programs. The SME should provide

recommendations for possible corrective actions to assist in effective

implementation of the lesson learned. Examples could include improved

methods to sample ground water or new methods to perform

preventative maintenance to reduce labor costs.

Regardless of the classification and action method(s) used by the site lessons learned

program, consideration should be given to keeping the originator of the potential

lessons learned informed of the final decision concerning his/her submittal. An

effective site-specific lessons learned program is dependent upon use by site

personnel and should be an ongoing process throughout the life of the site, or

project. To meet this goal, the site-specific lessons learned program should include a

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