Discussion - s1045cn10015

DOE-STD-1045-93

3. DISCUSSION

3.1 Notifications

An effective notification program provides a positive means for the facility to respond to

public health and safety concerns. Department of Energy policy encourages a positive

attitude toward reporting occurrences. Facilities should develop notification guidelines

that are directed toward ensuring uniformity, efficiency, and thoroughness of

notifications consistent with the requirements of DOE Order 232.1A, Occurrence

Reporting and Processing of Operations Information.

The need for facility-specific notification guidelines is apparent if one considers the

situation of a supervisor during, and immediately after, a serious operating event. The

supervisor's first priority is to ensure safety. This may involve implementing emergency

operating procedures, reassigning operating personnel, and/or personally supervising

immediate actions. In the midst of this activity, the supervisor requires concise

notification guidelines that clearly indicate the appropriate level of notification for the

specific event, based on an evaluation of its potential to impact safety, health, the

environment, or operations. The supervisor also needs to know the time available to

make the notification within regulatory requirements, the individuals to be notified, and

the method to be used to notify each.

Well-designed guidelines will ensure that notifications do not interfere with the

immediate actions that are needed in response to abnormal conditions. They should also

ensure that notifications are regarded as an integral part of the response, not an action to

be considered after conditions have returned to normal.

A manager has overall responsibility for the event investigation process. However, the

manager may delegate specific tasks in the investigation process to other personnel as

appropriate.

3.2 Investigation of Abnormal Events

Prompt investigation of abnormal events and conditions is important so facilities can

assess the impact of each event or condition, determine the root cause, and identify

corrective actions to prevent recurrence. Abnormal events and conditions include all

occurrences requiring formal notification under DOE Order 232.1A. Additionally,