Specific Application of Graded Approach: Assessments Element

DOESTD107393

2.5.4 SPECIFIC APPLICATION OF GRADED APPROACH: ASSESSMENTS ELEMENT

The initial assessments are important in identifying the strengths and weaknesses of existing programs

and procedures. Accordingly, the more thorough these assessments are, the more representative and

accurate the findings will be. Initial assessments may be adjusted based on facility grade. As defined

in the program criteria, at least two vertical slices (one on a principal safety system) and at least two

horizontal slices (one on change control and one on a topical area) should be conducted. However, for

some small facilities that have limited hazards and are not complex, the number of vertical slices and

horizontal slices may be adjusted. The following table presents different levels of implementation for

the initial assessments, based on the facility grade.

FACILITY GRADE

ASSESSMENT

TYPE

High

Medium

Low

Minimal

Vertical Slice

Necessary

Recommended

Principal Safety System

Horizontal Slice

Necessary

Recommended

Optional

Change Control

Second Vertical Slice

Necessary

Recommended

Optional

Horizontal Slice

Necessary

Recommended

Optional

Topical Area

This matrix applies to the case in which the facility grade is being applied directly to the CM program

general criteria. In other words, no other graded approach considerations (such as facility remaining

lifetime, etc.) have been applied. With application of other graded-approach considerations, the

implementation level may be adjusted further and this matrix would serve as an example of relative

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