Observation - Continued

DOE-EM-STD-5505-96

of temporary modifications

Distribution and control of equipment and system documents such as procedures, drawings,

and specifications

Equipment deficiency identification, documentation, and communication

Authorization and isolation of maintenance

Operators, maintenance personnel, and shift supervisors 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 operating status of equipment and systems, and

activities and maintenance in progress, is passed between shifts at this time.

To observe a control area 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 activities

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

that exist in the activity.

Attend the shift crew briefing. Observe the information exchanged.

Observe the operator as duties are performed. Observe the items listed in section 6.8.3 as

well as the interface between this operator and other shift positions, and how the operational

status of activity equipment and systems is controlled.

At the end of the shift, observe the turnover process between this operator and the oncoming

operator.

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

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

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

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

problems exist. A similar process can be used to observe roving operators and shift supervisors,