Specific Education and Experience

DOE-STD-1063-97

Although the Facility Representative identifies deficiencies, the ultimate

responsibility for identifying and correcting deficiencies rests with the

operating contractor. The contractor shall never rely solely on the Facility

Representative to identify or correct deficiencies.

Minor events or problems are frequently clues that indicate more general

problems in the contractor's organization, management, personnel abilities, or

practices. Therefore, attention to detail in the identification and correction of

minor problems can result in significant improvements in the contractor's

performance. When corrective actions are called for, DOE management

should initiate formal action with the operating contractor. Additionally, the

Facility Representative should also provide input to formal mechanisms such

as confirmation of actions or orders, if necessary.

The Facility Representative shall adhere to certain rules of conduct, or

protocol, while performing assigned duties, including the facility's approved

conduct of operations procedures. A formal protocol should be established

for Facility Representatives and should include the following:

Facility Representatives should avoid interrupting operators in their

work. The Facility Representative should wait for opportune times to

deal with facility operators. If the Facility Representative is observing

operations or activities, the observation should be performed

unobtrusively. Operators carry the true burden of safety, and a

diversion from their duties could adversely affect plant operations.

The Facility Representative should maintain frequent contact with

facility management. When Facility Representatives observe

something that raises a safety concern, they should discuss their

concerns with the facility management. If the contractor response is

deemed unsatisfactory, the Facility Representative should discuss the

concern with DOE management for appropriate action.

All Facility Representative requests for action should go through

established chains of command, except when exercising "Stop Work"

authority.

Facility Representatives shall keep a record of their activities and

observations. This record should be periodically reviewed to

determine if a systemic or recurring problem exists with contractor

activities at one or more facilities. This record is subject to review in

audits or appraisals and may be a source of information for the

contractor evaluation process.

Specific Education and Experience. In order for individuals to enter a Facility

Representative training and qualification program with the greatest opportunity for

successful completion, they should meet certain education and experience

requirements. Several mechanisms available to assist field elements in the

recruitment and retention of high quality candidates necessary for their program are

identified in the DOE Facility Representative Personnel Guide and the DOE-HR