NRC: News Release - 2003-045 - NRC Develops Model Application for Reactor Startup Modifications Based on Use of Risk Insights


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No. 03-045

April 9, 2003

NRC DEVELOPS MODEL APPLICATION FOR REACTOR STARTUP MODIFICATIONS BASED ON USE OF RISK INSIGHTS
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The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) has developed a model application for reactor licensees to use when requesting modifications to power plant systems during plant restart operations. The model application maintains plant safety while providing additional operational flexibility during startup.

The application, developed through the Consolidated Line Item Improvement Process, is designed to help NRC staff process such requests more efficiently. This is the third of eight risk-informed initiatives the NRC has undertaken to ensure its activities do not present an undue regulatory burden on licensees.

Current technical specifications (TS) require a nuclear power plant to ensure all relevant TS systems are working before changing its operating mode -- bringing the reactor closer to full power. If maintenance activity related to TS systems takes longer than planned, the mode change could be delayed and hamper a utility’s orderly plant startup and return to power operation.

The application describes a process for licensees to make allowances concerning a Limiting Condition for Operation (LCO), with a specific required action and completion time, that would otherwise prevent a mode change. The allowances would only apply as long as there is a high likelihood the LCO would be safely resolved within the specified timeframe after the mode change. Licensees are prevented from making allowances for LCOs involving several safety-related systems and components, such as emergency diesel generators.

Previous versions of the model application are available on the NRC’s web page at this address: http://www.nrc.gov/reactors/operating/licensing/techspecs/changes-issued-for-adoption.html. Physical copies of the documents may be viewed or copied (for a fee) at the NRC’s Public Document Room, 11555 Rockville Pike, Rockville, Md. For more information on the application, contact Robert Dennig at 301-415-1161.

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