Review of SAR/TSR implementation

DOE-STD-3006-2000

Some observations were noted. A significant one is that the threshold for an unusual

occurrence regarding the release of "hazardous materials above limits. . ." is unclear. The

descriptive guidance given in the contractor procedure is too general and leads to

inconsistency and confusion. Seven managers of organizations within the facility that dealt

with hazardous materials were interviewed regarding the threshold for reporting under this

Order. All were interpreting the guidance differently and required different responses for

similar occurrences involving hazardous material.

A sample of five occurrence reports revealed that all but one were on schedule regarding

reporting to DOE Headquarters. Lessons learned training required in three of the five reports

was complete. A spot check of operators during interviews (13 interviews) confirmed the

effectiveness of the lessons learned training.

(b) Not Desirable; no specifics, personalized, irrelevant...

The contractor's ORPS Program was examined. It's one of the best I've seen - almost as good

as XXX in XXXX. A sample of reports were looked at and found to be in excellent

condition. Headquarters likes this program too and was very complimentary about it when I

was up there last month.

Review of SAR/TSR implementation; maintenance of pressure differential in glove boxes for

personnel protection.

(a)

Desirable; objective, analytical, supported by background detail.

Chapter XXX of the SAR requires ". . . absolute pressure in a glovebox in operation with

radioactive material in it shall be maintained below the pressure of the surrounding area such

that any air flow shall be from the surrounding area into the glovebox. This is to prevent the

escape of airborne or potentially airborne radionuclides from the glovebox to the surrounding

area." This requirement has been implemented through Technical Safety Requirement (TSR)

xxxx that requires a differential pressure (DP) of xx in. of water to be maintained between a

glovebox and its surrounding area.

The gauges installed to monitor this DP are not calibrated on a regular basis and have not

been calibrated since installation 5 years ago. These gauges are the principle means of

surveillance to ensure that the TSR is complied with. The DP gauges are not considered

Appendix 4-24