Observation. - std55050064

DOE-EM-STD-5505-96

Use of the activity public address system.

Use of portable radios by various shift positions

Use of abbreviations, acronyms, and "repeat backs" during communications

Use of standardized terminology and phonetic alphabet

Communications during the occurrence notification process

Communications between drill team controllers

Observing the activities above should be supplemented with observations of routine shift

communications conducted during walkthroughs and tours of the activity and control area.

Operators, maintenance personnel, and shift supervisors from each shift should be observed to get

a broad picture of communication accuracy, reliability, and effectiveness. If possible, the

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

about the operations, maintenance, and special operations in progress at the activity, is passed at

this time.

To observe communications while touring the activity with an operator, the following

methodology could be used:

Observe the shift turnover conducted between the on-coming and off-going operators. Pay

attention to the information passed verbally between the operators concerning operations

planned or in progress, status of activity systems and equipment, and any abnormal conditions

that exist at the activity. Review any documentation used to communicate written information

in the turnover process.

Attend the shift crew briefing. Observe the information exchanged.

Accompany the operator as he performs his duties. Observe the use of portable radios, the

public address system, telephones and face-to-face communications between the operator and

other shift positions. If the activity has a control area, observe communications between the

control area operator and other shift positions.