Operator Workarounds

DOE-STD-1041-93

they are used to achieve safe and reliable plant operation. Operating crews apply knowledge of

reactor theory, thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and instrumentation and controls to operation of

the plant.

Operating practices promote event-free performance. Standards are established for practices such

as the following:

procedure adherence

self- and peer-verification

component manipulation

pre- and post-evolution briefs

supervisory oversight and direction

operating parameter monitoring

response to equipment abnormalities

on-the-job training

logkeeping

shift turnovers

Establishing observable standards for these practices helps operations managers and supervisors

reinforce desirable behaviors.

Operating crew teamwork, operating practices, and diagnostic skills should be routinely

monitored to reinforce good crew performance and to identify and remedy weak performance.

Also, interpersonal relationships should be considered in crew composition.

3. Operator Workarounds

Equipment deficiencies that adversely affect plant operations or cause operators to take

compensatory actions should be identified and assessed. Operators rely on plant equipment to

operate as designed to properly respond to abnormal and emergency conditions. When equipment

does not operate as designed, operators take compensatory actions. Even during normal

operations, a large burden can be placed on operators that detracts from their ability to monitor

the plant. Often, individual equipment deficiencies do not pose an unreasonable burden on

operators; but in the aggregate, multiple deficiencies pose a significant challenge or distract

operators during their day-to-day routines.

Equipment deficiencies, particularly those that are long-standing, increase the probability of

inappropriate or inadvertent operation of plant systems and may degrade operator ability to

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