Analysis Of Operational Events Research Articles

Applying a new human factor tool in the nuclear energy industry

AimNuclear regulations demand that human contribution is included in the reporting and analysis of operational events (OE), but this topic is not actively studied. We studied current human factor (HF) procedures in nuclear OE reporting and analysis, and tested a new HF tool for OE analysis. MethodsWe modified an HF tool for nuclear purposes. Safety experts (n=8) from two nuclear power companies (NPC) tested the HF tool in a workshop investigating three OEs. We interviewed the safety experts and managers (n=20) of the two NPCs, to evaluate the current HF practices and the output of the OE analysis with the new HF tool. We also analysed the documentation. ResultsThe study revealed that currently, the reporting and analysis of OE focuses mainly on technical and risk aspects, and HF is not very concrete. The new HF tool offered a more accurate picture of the analysed OEs and HFs affecting OEs including the successes, than current OE analysis methods. The users found the HF tool clear and easy to use, useful for investigation, training and self-evaluation, and for monitoring safety trends. DiscussionNPCs are aware of the need and usefulness of HF thinking, but HFs in OE reporting and analysis still need to be concretized. Development needs include further modification and validation of the tool, and planning of future implementation at NPCs and in the nuclear industry. ConclusionsHF competence and implementation has to be improved, as stressed in the nuclear safety regulation.

The Analysis of Operational Events at Ukrainian NPPs during 2015 and the First Six Months of 2016

The events that occurred at Ukrainian NPPs in 2015 and the first six months of 2016 have been analyzed in the areas that characterize operational safety.
 The paper presents results of NPP operational events analysis carried out to identify common features and trends that indicate whether there were (or not) inconsistencies during investigation of events, and provides information on the current level of NPP safety. Negative trends have been determined for each NPP site that identify the areas to be improved and require control of the regulatory authority. Causes of negative trends are analyzed individually.
 Events with common characteristics were evaluated, with the results to be used for the development and implementation of preventive measures to avoid the reoccurrence of such events. Safety-important areas have been determined for inspections and recommendations have been provided to the operator on the improvement of the operating experience feedback system and increase in the level of operational safety.

The Accident Sequence Precursor Analysis: Review of the Methods and New Insights

The Accident Sequence Precursor (ASP) program methods and results are reviewed. Generally, it is concluded that the ASP program is useful and that continued methods improvement efforts currently under way should be continued. More care is needed in the interpretation of results. Alternative methods and treatments for the analysis of operational events and the use of ASP results are determined.