Chapter 2 Implementation Guidance for Operational Configuration Management

DOESTD107393

CHAPTER 2

IMPLEMENTATION GUIDANCE FOR

OPERATIONAL CONFIGURATION MANAGEMENT

This guidance is appropriate for high-hazard facilities expected to operate for an extended period.

Since DOE facilities vary in hazard level and circumstances of operation, a graded approach to

implementation should be adopted.

2.1 PROGRAM MANAGEMENT ELEMENT

The program management element of a configuration management (CM) program coordinates program

development and implementation and ensures overall program effectiveness. This element leads the

development of the other CM program elements. Development of an effective CM program should be

initiated promptly, where needed, to address known issues, to improve compliance with various DOE

Orders, and to produce the benefits of improved safety, reduced errors, and increased efficiency.

Configuration management program definition and development necessitates the establishment of local

CM policy, philosophy, requirements, and strategies for development and implementation.

Configuration management program development activities should be performed in a phased manner

and should include milestones. Initially, development activities should focus on preparation of CM

program directives and plans. The CM program criteria indicate that the CM program plan should be

provided to DOE for review within 18 months of initiation of planning. Development of the CM program

elements begins after CM program plan concurrence and should be completed within 2 to 3 years (for a

large, complex facility). Program implementation should be initiated as each element is developed, with

full implementation of the five CM program elements, including satisfactory post-implementation

assessment, within 5 years. Adjunct programs such as design reconstitution could extend beyond 5

years. Once fully implemented, the CM program functions should be maintained throughout the life of

the facility. Figure 21 provides an overview of the schedule for CM program development and

implementation.

In the following sections, program management is described by function in the general order of its

Chronological development. The concepts and terminology, and equipment scope criteria functions are

discussed under program planning.

2.1.1 PROGRAM PLANNING

The CM program planning phase is of critical importance because it sets the direction and tone for future

development and implementation activities. Configuration management policy development is a top-

down activity, beginning with a general set of CM program criteria established at the site/division level.

The CM directives should be issued initially at the highest level of management (site/division) and flow

downward to the facility management level. In contrast with policy development, technical program

planning starts at the facility level and flows up to the site/division level. The site/division CM program

plan should be a consolidation of the facility CM program plans and should provide for implementation

variations for different facilities based on hazard levels, operational constraints, and other variables.

Figure 22 reflects the basic steps necessary for CM program planning.

Through review and concurrence with the CM program plan, DOE acknowledges that the plan defines

the appropriate level of implementation, based upon the CM program criteria and the graded approach.

Once reviewed, the plan serves as the basis for future assessments of program effectiveness and

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