Environmental Qualification of Safety-Related Equipment (Generic Letter 80-83)

GL80083 

                                OCT 1 1980 

ALL LICENSEES OF OPERATING PLANTS AND APPLICANTS FOR OPERATING LICENSES AND 
  HOLDERS OF CONSTRUCTION PERMITS 

SUBJECT: ENVIRONMENTAL QUALIFICATION OF SAFETY-RELATED EQUIPMENT 

The NRC has initiated a program to audit the testing of equipment for 
environmental qualification. It includes the witnessing of equipment tests, 
and independent verification testing by the NRC. The long range goals of 
this program are the standardization of qualification criteria, 
accreditation of testing facilities, and improvement of environmental 
testing specifications and standards. This program is part of the overall 
effort to ensure that the equipment will perform its safety-related function 
in the harsh environment resulting from accidents. 

For pre-selected pieces of equipment, the entire test program will be 
reviewed. This will include specimen selection and preparation, test 
procedure review, acceptance criteria review, observation of the test, and 
issuing a Safety Evaluation Report. Industry cooperation is important for 
these tasks. 

To assist in planning and scheduling this effort, you are requested to 
provide pertinent information relative to environmental qualification tests 
to be conducted within the next two years on equipment used or to be used in
your facilities. This information should include: 

1.   Equipment description (type, model, manufacturers etc.) 

2.   The system where the equipment is installed (including Unit name) 

3.   The test location and schedule 

4.   The cognizant licensee contact for the test. 

You are requested to voluntarily supply this information to this office with
a copy of the response to the appropriate Regional Office by November 1. 
1980. 

                                        Sincerely, 


                                        Darrell G. Eisenhut, Director 
                                        Division of Licensing 
                                        Office of Nuclear Reactor Regulation


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