SAR Nuclear Facility Guidance for DOE Order 5480.23

DOE-STD-1027-92

methodology for hazard categorization. Finally, Section 4 gives additional specific guidance on

the use of the graded approach and accident/hazard analysis techniques for compliance with this

Order.

Figure 1 portrays the relationships between the Order and the topics covered in this guidance

document.

Questions regarding this standard should be addressed to the Director, Office of Nuclear Safety

Policy & Standards (EH-31).

Guidance

1.0

SAR NUCLEAR FACILITY GUIDANCE FOR DOE ORDER 5480.23

Order 5480.23 defines the "level of concern" within the framework of Hazard

Categorization, which requires the preparation of a SAR for DOE nuclear facilities.

Section 3 and Attachment 1 of this Standard provide consistent guidance on facility

categorization. All facilities classified as at least Category 3 in accordance with this

guidance are required to comply with DOE Order 5480.23. Additional guidance

regarding some environmental restoration activities is provided in an Interpretation

Memo dated June 9, 1997, Black to Psaras. Facilities that do not meet or exceed

Category 3 threshold criteria but still possess some amount of radioactive material may

be considered Radiological Facilities.

Radiological Facilities are exempt from this Order, but they are not exempt from other

safety requirements. 10 CFR 835 applies for all facilities including those that are

exempt from DOE Order 5480.23. Exemption from the requirements of 5480.23 does

not excuse contractors from doing analysis, where applicable, to evaluate potential

significant radiation exposures to workers. For example, EM has prepared a limited

standard to provide additional and more specific guidance regarding measures

necessary to ensure safety for EM facilities and activities below category 3 criteria

(DOE-EM-STD-5502-94).