Department of Energy (DOE) Radiological Control Manual

Chapter 3 - Conduct of Radiological Work

Part 5 - Evaluation of Performance

Table of Contents (Articles 35x)

• Forward
• 351 Conduct of Critiques
• 352 Post-Job Reviews
• 353 Lessons Learned

Forward

During the conduct of radiological work and the handling of radioactive materials, abnormal events may occur which could indicate a weakness or area of programmatic breakdown of radiological controls. Prompt, consistent gathering of facts related to such events is required to satisfy reporting and investigation requirements and to formulate corrective actions to prevent recurrence. In addition, successful performance or completion of unique activities should be evaluated to identify and incorporate appropriate lessons learned.

Analysis of the facts should reveal areas where improvements can be made or where methods can be identified to prevent the recurrence of undesired results.

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Article 351 - Conduct of Critiques

Critiques are meetings of the personnel knowledgeable about an event (either a success or an abnormal event) to document a chronological listing of the facts. The purpose of the critique is not to assign blame, but to establish and record the facts.

1. Critiques should be conducted for successes and abnormal events.

2. Critique leaders should be trained in the required elements of the critique process and the appropriate methods of conducting and controlling the critique.

3. Critique meetings should be conducted as soon as practicable after the event or situation is stabilized, or after a successful evolution is completed. Critiques of abnormal events should preferably be conducted before involved personnel leave for the day.

4. At a minimum, the general critique process should include the following elements:

• Formal meetings, chaired by a critique leader
• Attendance by all who can contribute
• Personal statement forms completed by selected personnel before the meeting
• Attendance records
• Minutes, recorded and signed by the critique leader and all contributors
• Personal statements, signed and attached to the meeting minutes
• A listing of the facts in chronological order
• Supporting materials, including documents, records, photographs, parts and logs, maintained by the critique leader.

• Evaluation of complex evolutions or events may require multiple critiques. Return to Chapter 3, Part 5 Table of Contents

Article 352 - Post-Job Reviews

Performance should be reviewed after completion of nonroutine radiological work. Requirements for post-job reviews should be delineated in the Site-Specific Radiological Control Manual.

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Article 353 - Lessons Learned

Lessons learned are available from post-job reviews and reports of past radiological events on site and at other facilities. The Radiological Control Organization, in conjunction with line management, should evaluate lessons learned, provide prompt distribution, and incorporate the lessons into the Site Radiological Control Program, the radiological training program and related operations.

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