Appendix E: Action Verb List

DOE-STD-1029-92

Appendix E: Action Verb List

The following list of verbs is not intended to be comprehensive. Verbs are selected from this list

where possible so that words have a meaning common to all performers.

Avoid using terms that do not provide specific instructions unless they are followed by specifying

information. For example, "increase" used without qualification is almost meaningless, but

"increase flow to maintain level above the inlet standpipe" provides the necessary information.

Many of these verbs have similar meanings. Once a verb has been selected for a related series of

action steps, use it consistently.

Developing and using a site- or facility-specific verb list is highly recommended. The site-specific

verb list may drawn upon the following list of action verbs and may also use verbs that have

specific meaning at the site. All verbs on the site-specific verb list should be defined precisely and

used consistently in all site procedures.

DEFINITION (as used in Action Steps)

VERB

Actuate

Place into a specific state of functional performance.

Add

Increase the size or quantity.

Adjust

Make an incremental change or series of changes to arrive at a desired

condition.

Align

Arrange equipment into a specific configuration to permit a specific

operation.

Allow

Permit the completion of a specific action.

Announce

To make known publicly.

Assemble

Put together what is required to provide an operational or functional

capability.

Attach

To fasten one thing to another.

Balance

Adjust several parameters at the same time at certain points in a system to

specified values.

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