Observation. - std55050106

DOE-EM-STD-5505-96

A technician monitoring parameters or taking samples

An operator performing maintenance that will cause an alarm condition

Operators and technicians from each shift should be observed during the assessment. If possible,

the observation of a particular shift position should start at shift turnover since vital information

about the status of activity processes is passed at this time.

An effective way to observe operators is to follow them during their inspection tours. If they are

taking round sheets, observe what parameters are monitored and the parameter normal, high, and

low values recorded on the round sheet. If the actual parameter value is outside the high/low

band, observe what actions the operator takes, if any. If a maintenance action or operator will

cause an expected alarm, then are the appropriate operations personnel informed prior to receipt

of the alarm?

Because matrixed technicians are outside the operations organization, observing the

communication of sample results or parameter monitoring will be required. Once again, an

effective means of conducting the observation is to contact the matrixed organization, and arrange

to follow a technician while sampling or monitoring operations. Observe the technician take the

sample or monitor the parameter as before. If the sample requires analysis to obtain a parameter,

observe if the results are returned to the operations organization in time to have meaningful

process control.

Once an observation has been completed, compare what was observed to the requirements

contained in activity policies and procedures to identify any apparent deviations from

requirements. Pursuing these leads using additional observations, interviews, and document

reviews to confirm or disprove them and determine if programmatic breakdowns or widespread

problems exist.