Chapter 1 Operational Configuration Management Program Principles

DOESTD107393

This Standard presents the program criteria and implementation guidance for an operational

configuration management (CM) program for Department of Energy (DOE) facilities. This Standard is

applicable to DOE nuclear facilities in the operational phase. Although it was developed for application

to DOE nuclear facilities, the concepts in this Standard can be adapted and applied to DOE non--

nuclear facilities. Portions of this Standard are also useful for other DOE processes, activities, and

programs.

The first two sections of this Chapter describe the fundamental objective and functional model on which

operational configuration management is based. Section 1.3 describes program criteria for the

functions depicted in the model. Section 1.4 describes the graded approach recommended for the

implementation of these criteria.

The CM program described in this Standard is founded on a concise objective that provides significant

program benefits. The objective and benefits are explained in the subsections that follow.

Program Objective. The objective of the operational CM program is to establish consistency among

design requirements, physical configuration, and facility documentation, and to maintain this consistency

throughout the operational life-cycle phase, particularly as changes are being made. These basic

relationships are depicted in Figure 1-1. The physical configuration should conform with the design

requirements, which are established by design output documents. The facility documentation, which

includes as-built drawings and operating procedures, should accurately reflect both the physical

configuration and the design requirements. Changes to design requirements should be reflected in both

the physical configuration and the facility documentation. Changes to either the facility physical

configuration or facility documentation should be supported by the design requirements.

Program Benefits. The consistency among design requirements, physical configuration, and facility

documentation that is the objective of operational configuration management offers many benefits in

terms of the safety and efficiency of DOE facilities. Effective implementation of the elements and

functions of an operational CM program provides the tools and information necessary for integrating and

coordinating activities to ensure that work is done correctly and safely the first time.

For example, an effective CM program increases the availability and retrievability of accurate

information to support safe, sound, and timely decision-making related to facility design and operations.

It also increases efficiency by ensuring the prompt availability of needed information, thereby preventing

errors and resultant rework, reducing duplications of effort, and improving scheduling and planning

estimates. A CM program improves response to critical design and operational problems by making

complete and accurate information readily available. Moreover, it enhances worker safety by providing

assurance that equipment will perform as intended and by reducing exposures to radiological and other

hazards, such as stored-energy sources. The cumulative benefits of a CM program include increased

facility safety and reliability, improved environmental protection, and a reduced potential for extended

facility shutdowns.

Many other programs need an effective CM program to fulfill their objectives and requirements. By maintaining

the basic relationships (shown in Figure 1-1), the CM program helps maintain the

I-1