Re: DOE Emergency Preparedness Plans

[James Willison <BBRE263@barms036.b-r.com>]

DOE does have standards for Emergency Preparedness.  Contractors at DOE 
sites are requried to conform to the 5500 series of DOE Orders (recently 
replaced by DOE O 151.1) that require an Emergency Preparedness and Response 
Program.  In many ways, the requirements and guidance for DOE programs are 
more comprehensive than for NRC licensed facilities as they include both 
nuclear and chemical hazards.  The DOE program was built upon the lessons 
learned in NUREG-0654 for NRC reactors and is designed to be applicable for 
all types of nuclear and chemical facilities.

As is usually the case, the problem is in the implementation.  NRC licensees 
can be fined or have their licenses suspended for not having an adequate 
emergency plan.  The penalties that DOE can apply to M&O contractors are 
more subtle and not as effective.

The underlying problem that the commerical plants had to face (after TMI) 
and that DOE facilities now are facing is the safety culture that denies 
that accidents can happen.  If you don't think an accident will happen, you 
won't take the training seriously, and can't respond appropriately when 
called upon.

Jim Willison, PE, CHP
bbre263@barms036.b-r.com