Discussion - s1035cn10015

DOE-STD-1035-93

3. DISCUSSION

This guide has been prepared to aid facilities and individuals in maintaining logs, both as working

documents used in the daily conduct of facility operations and as permanent legal records.

The guidelines of DOE Order 5480.19 identify logs as part of the overall program for controlling

equipment and system status. Logs have many characteristics in common with round sheets, in

that both provide information concerning the condition and status of equipment, and both are

treated as legal records. Round sheets normally record only data collected from instruments.

Logs are used to record an understandable account of the changes in the status of equipment,

information obtained from sources in addition to instruments, and explanations for unusual data

readings. This information makes logs a valuable tool in reconstructing events. If an unusual

event occurs, its precursors and its progress can often be traced by analyzing logs, round sheets,

and other records.

Logs provide a method for transferring information from one person or shift, to another, and are

an important part of the operations turnover described in DOE Order 5480.19, Chapter XII.

The transfer of information through logs enables current personnel to benefit from the

experiences of previous operators of the equipment. The record of problems and attempted

solutions may be reviewed whenever a new or similar problem occurs. The lessons learned can

save time and effort in the search for solutions to current problems, and can help personnel avoid

situations that caused problems in the past. The information contained in logs is also often used

by engineers to track the performance of components or processes, by training personnel to

provide examples for instruction, and by others requiring specific information concerning

operations.

Logkeeping enhances the formality that must be a part of good operating practices and

encourages individual accountability for operating decisions and actions. Logkeeping may also

reduce paperwork by providing a single location and format for documenting operating

activities.

DOE Order 5480.19 recommends logs for all key shift or process operator positions. Since logs

are regarded as legal documents, they should meet high standards for accuracy and consistency.

Facility guidelines should specify the positions required to maintain logs, the type of information

to be recorded, and the requirements for format, timeliness, and legibility. Facility guidelines

should also provide instructions for correcting errors in logs, periodic review of logs, and

disposition of completed logs.