Use of The Standard

DOE-STD-1024-92

entitled "Guidance for Geotechnical Studies." This document was written

by Defense Programs for the Systematic Evaluation Program and is being

provided to the Office of Nuclear Energy to turn into a DOE Standard

(DOE-STD-1022).

The final position to be developed through the DOE/NRC program is likely

to more explicitly require geologic/seismic justification of expert input. In

addition, draft DOE Order 5480.NPH provides clarification on time

intervals for reviewing seismic hazard work.

18.

USE OF THE STANDARD

(INEL-2, INEL-5)

The Standard should be used now to define ground motion in any

ongoing efforts for both new and existing facilities. Draft Order 5480.NPH

defines evaluation for existing facilities using backfit and this approach

should be used to determine how to implement the Standard to existing

facilities. The Standard does currently define geographic applicability

(see response 8). In addition, a set of Natural Phenomena Standards and

Guidance Documents will be prepared that will establish more explicit

requirements and acceptance criteria for DOE facilities. This DOE

guidance on seismic hazard will be reviewed by all sites.

In about 2 years this Standard approach will be replaced by a final

standard or incorporated into a standard being prepared to support

5480.NPH. Evaluations of new and existing facilities continuing from that

point will use the final position, which is expected to further lower design

Currently, DOE is proceeding with the NRC and EPRI on a joint program

to develop a final position which includes more stable seismic hazard

estimates. This effort will utilize a group of senior technical specialists

who are well recognized experts in Geosciences, Ground Motion and

Expert Elicitation.

A-28