IR 05000424/2017002
| ML17202G465 | |
| Person / Time | |
|---|---|
| Site: | Vogtle  |
| Issue date: | 07/21/2017 |
| From: | Shane Sandal NRC/RGN-II/DRP/RPB2 |
| To: | Myers D Southern Nuclear Operating Co |
| References | |
| IR 2017002 | |
| Download: ML17202G465 (35) | |
Text
UNITED STATES NUCLEAR REGULATORY COMMISSION uly 21, 2017
SUBJECT:
VOGTLE ELECTRIC GENERATING PLANT - NRC INTEGRATED INSPECTION REPORT 05000424/2017002 AND 05000425/2017002
Dear Mr. Myers:
On June 30, 2017, the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) completed an inspection at Vogtle Electric Generating Plant, Units 1 and 2. On July 5, 2017, the NRC inspectors discussed the results of this inspection with you and other members of your staff. Inspectors documented the results of this inspection in the enclosed inspection report.
NRC inspectors documented two findings of very low safety significance (Green) in this report.
These findings involved violations of NRC requirements. The NRC is treating these violations as non-cited violations (NCVs) consistent with Section 2.3.2.a of the Enforcement Policy.
If you contest the violations or significance of these NCVs, you should provide a response within 30 days of the date of this inspection report, with the basis for your denial, to the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, ATTN: Document Control Desk, Washington, DC 20555-0001; with copies to the Regional Administrator, Region II; the Director, Office of Enforcement; and the NRC resident inspector at the Vogtle Electric Generating Plant, Units 1 and 2.
If you disagree with a cross-cutting aspect assignment in this report, you should provide a response within 30 days of the date of this inspection report, with the basis for your disagreement, to the Regional Administrator, Region II; and the NRC resident inspector at the Vogtle Electric Generating Plant, Units 1 and 2. This letter, its enclosure, and your response (if any) will be made available for public inspection and copying at http://www.nrc.gov/reading-rm/adams.html and at the NRC Public Document Room in accordance with 10 CFR 2.390, Public Inspections, Exemptions, Requests for Withholding.
Sincerely,
/RA/
Shane Sandal, Chief Reactor Projects Branch 2 Division of Reactor Projects Docket Nos.: 50-424 and 50-425 License Nos.: NPF-68 and NPF-81
Enclosure:
IR 05000424/2017002; 05000425/2017002 w/Attachment: Supplemental Information
REGION II==
Docket Nos.: 50-424, 50-425 License Nos.: NPF-68, NPF-81 Report No.: 05000424/2017002; and 05000425/2017002 Licensee: Southern Nuclear Operating Company, Inc.
Facility: Vogtle Electric Generating Plant, Units 1 and 2 Location: Waynesboro, GA 30830 Dates: April 01, 2017 through June 30, 2017 Inspectors: M. Endress, Senior Resident Inspector A. Alen, Resident Inspector S. Sanchez, Senior Emergency Preparedness Inspector (1EP2, 1EP3, 1EP4, 1EP5, 4OA1)
J. Hickman, Emergency Preparedness Inspector (1EP2, 1EP3, 1EP4, 1EP5, 4OA1)
D. Lanyi, Senior Operations Engineer (1R11)
M. Kennard, Operations Engineer (1R11)
D. Mas, Project Engineer Approved by: Shane Sandal, Chief Reactor Projects Branch 2 Division of Reactor Projects Enclosure
SUMMARY
IR 05000424/2017002; and 05000425/2017002, April 1, 2017 through June 30, 2017; Vogtle
Electric Generating Plant, Units 1 and 2, Other Activities The report covered a three-month period of inspection by resident inspectors and regional inspectors. There are two self-revealing violations documented in this report which were determined to be of very low safety significance. The significance of inspection findings are indicated by their color (i.e., greater than Green, Green, White, Yellow or Red) and determined using Inspection Manual Chapter (IMC) 0609, Significance Determination Process, (SDP)dated April 29, 2015. The cross-cutting aspects are determined using IMC 0310, Aspects within the Cross-Cutting Areas, dated December 4, 2014. All violations of NRC requirements are dispositioned in accordance with the NRCs Enforcement Policy dated November 1, 2016.
The NRCs program for overseeing the safe operations of commercial nuclear power reactors is described in NUREG-1649, Reactor Oversight Process, Revision 6. Documents reviewed by the inspectors which are not identified in the Report Details are identified in the List of Documents Reviewed section of the Attachment.
Cornerstone: Initiating Events
- (Green). A self-revealing, Green, non-cited violation of 10 CFR 50 Appendix B,
Criterion XVI, Corrective Action, was identified for the licensees failure to identify and correct a condition adverse to quality (i.e., manufacturing deficiency), which led to a repetitive failure of main steam isolation valve (MSIV) 1HV-3006B. The failure to determine the cause of a significant condition adverse to quality and take corrective action to preclude repetition was a performance deficiency. Specifically, the licensee failed to identify the root cause of an MSIV actuator failure on April 12, 2014, that resulted in a reactor trip. As a result, appropriate corrective actions were not taken and a repeat failure of the valve actuator caused another reactor trip on February 3, 2017. The licensee has entered this issue into the corrective action program as condition report 10326456.
This performance deficiency was more than minor because it was associated with the Human Performance attribute of the Initiating Events Cornerstone, and adversely affected the cornerstone objective of limiting the likelihood of events that upset plant stability and challenge critical safety functions during shutdown as well as power operations. The finding was of very low safety significance (Green) because the finding did not result in a loss of mitigation equipment used to transition the reactor to a stable shutdown condition. The finding was not assigned a cross cutting aspect since it was not indicative of current licensee performance due to the root cause evaluation in question being performed greater than three years ago (Section 4OA5).
Cornerstone: Mitigating Systems
- (Green). A self-revealing, Green, non-cited violation of Technical Specifications 5.4.1.a,
Procedures, was identified for the licensees failure to redline new wiring installation associated with an open phase protection system modification, as required by work instructions. As result, control circuit wires were not installed per wiring diagrams and caused a loss of the offsite power feed to the B train 4160-volt emergency power bus. The licensee's failure to redline new wiring installation associated with an open phase protection system modification installation, as required by work instruction SNC804606 and maintenance procedure NMP-MA-017 was a performance deficiency. The licensee entered this issue into their corrective action program under condition reports 10343972 and 10344136 and restored offsite power to the emergency bus by correcting the wiring configuration.
The performance deficiency was more than minor because it was associated with the Human Performance attribute of the Mitigating Systems cornerstone and adversely affected the cornerstone objective to ensure the availability, reliability, and capability of systems that respond to initiating events to prevent undesirable consequences. The finding was determined to be of very low safety significance (Green) because the in-service train of shutdown cooling (i.e., 'A' train of the residual heat removal system) was not affected. The finding was assigned a cross-cutting aspect of Procedure Adherence, in the Human Performance area because individuals did not follow work instructions and redline procedures when installing new wiring for the open phase protection system [H.8] (Section 4OA5).
REPORT DETAILS
Summary of Plant Status
Unit 1 began the inspection period in planned refueling outage cycle 20 (1R20). The unit was restarted on April 3, 2017, and attained full reactor thermal power (RTP) on April 7, 2017. On May 30, 2017, operators reduced power to approximately 80-percent RTP in response to a steam generator sodium excursion and repaired a tube leak in the A condenser water box. On June 9, 2017, the unit was returned to full RTP and remained at or near full RTP for the remainder of the inspection period.
Unit 2 operated at or near full RTP for the entire inspection period.
REACTOR SAFETY
Cornerstones: Initiating Events, Mitigating Systems, and Barrier Integrity
1R01 Adverse Weather Protection
a. Inspection Scope
Summer Readiness of Offsite and Alternate AC Power System: The inspectors reviewed the licensees procedures for operation and continued availability of offsite and onsite alternate AC power systems. The inspectors also reviewed the communications protocols between the transmission system operator and the licensee to verify that the appropriate information is exchanged when issues arise that could affect the offsite power system.
The inspectors reviewed the material condition of offsite and onsite alternate AC power systems (including switchyard and transformers) by performing a walkdown of the switchyard. The inspectors reviewed outstanding work orders and assessed corrective actions for degraded conditions that impacted plant risk or required compensatory actions.
Impending Adverse Weather Conditions: The inspectors reviewed the licensees preparations to protect risk-significant systems from an impending storm with high wind, hail, and lightning expected on April 5, 2017. The inspectors evaluated the licensees implementation of adverse weather preparation procedures and compensatory measures, including operator staffing, before the onset of the adverse weather conditions. The inspectors reviewed the licensees plans to address the ramifications of potentially lasting effects that may result from high wind, hail, and lightning. The inspectors verified that operator actions specified in the licensees adverse weather procedure maintain readiness of essential systems. The inspectors verified that required surveillances were current, or were scheduled and completed, if practical, before the onset of anticipated adverse weather conditions. The inspectors also verified that the licensee implemented periodic equipment walkdowns or other measures to ensure that the condition of plant equipment met operability requirements.
b. Findings
No findings were identified.
1R04 Equipment Alignment
a. Inspection Scope
Partial Walkdown: The inspectors verified that critical portions of the following four systems were correctly aligned by performing partial walkdowns. The inspectors determined the correct system lineup by reviewing plant procedures and drawings.
- Unit 1, A train emergency diesel generator (EDG) with the B train EDG out of service (OOS) for monthly surveillance.
- Unit 2, A and B motor-driven auxiliary feed water (MDAFW) trains standby readiness with the C train turbine-driven auxiliary feed water (TDAFW) pump OOS due to an emergent issue.
Complete Walkdown: The inspectors verified the alignment of the Unit 2 B train EDG while the A train EDG was OOS for an extended PM outage by reviewing plant procedures, drawings, the updated final safety analysis report, and other documents.
The inspectors also reviewed records related to the system outstanding design issues, maintenance work requests, and deficiencies.
The inspectors reviewed corrective action documents, including condition reports and outstanding work orders, to verify the licensee was identifying and resolving equipment alignment discrepancies. The inspectors also reviewed periodic reports containing information on the status of risk-significant systems, including maintenance rule reports and system health reports.
b. Findings
No findings were identified.
1R05 Fire Protection
a. Inspection Scope
Quarterly Inspection: The inspectors evaluated the adequacy of fire plans by comparing the fire plans to the defined hazards and defense-in-depth features specified in the fire protection program for the following five fire areas.
- Unit 1 AFW pump house, fire zones 155, 156, 157A, and 157B
- Unit 1 Auxiliary Building level C, pipe penetration area and centrifugal charging pump rooms for A and B trains , fire zones 14B, 19, 20, and 21
- Unit 2 Auxiliary Building level C, pipe penetration area and centrifugal charging pump rooms for A and B trains , fire zones 14B, 19, 20, and 21
- Unit 2, Control Building level B, 1E A and B train battery and switchgear rooms, fire zones 71, 76,77A, 77B, 78A, and 78B
- Unit 2, Control Building level B, 1E C and D train battery and switchgear rooms, fire zones 56A, 56B, 79A, 79B, 83, and 152 The inspectors assessed the following:
- control of transient combustibles and ignition sources
- fire detection systems
- water-based fire suppression systems
- gaseous fire suppression systems
- manual firefighting equipment and capability
- passive fire protection features
- compensatory measures and fire watches
- issues related to fire protection contained in the licensees corrective action program
- material condition and operational status of fire protection equipment Fire Drill Observation: The inspectors observed the licensees fire brigade performance during a fire drill on May 30, 2017, and assessed the brigades capability to meet fire protection licensing basis requirements. The inspectors observed the following aspects of fire brigade performance:
- capability of fire brigade members
- leadership ability of the brigade leader
- proper use of turnout gear and fire-fighting equipment
- team effectiveness
- compliance with site procedures The inspectors also assessed the ability of control room operators to combat potential fires including identifying the location of the fire, dispatching the fire brigade, and sounding alarms.
b. Findings
No findings were identified.
1R06 Flood Protection Measures
a. Inspection Scope
Internal Flooding: The inspectors reviewed related flood analysis documents and walked down the area listed below containing risk-significant structures, systems, and components susceptible to flooding. The inspectors verified that plant design features and plant procedures for flood mitigation were consistent with design requirements and internal flooding analysis assumptions. The inspectors also assessed the condition of flood protection barriers and drain systems. In addition, the inspectors verified the licensee was identifying and properly addressing issues using the corrective action program.
- Unit 1, auxiliary component cooling water heat exchanger rooms (Auxiliary Building rooms R104 and R105)
b. Findings
No findings were identified.
1R11 Licensed Operator Requalification Program and Licensed Operator Performance
a. Inspection Scope
Licensed Operator Requalification: The inspectors reviewed the facility operating history and associated documents in preparation for this inspection. During the week of June 26, 2017, the inspectors reviewed documentation, interviewed licensee personnel, and observed the administration of operating tests associated with the licensees operator requalification program. Each of the activities performed by the inspectors was done to assess the licensees effectiveness in implementing requalification requirements identified in 10 CFR Part 55, Operators Licenses. The evaluations were also performed to determine if the licensee effectively implemented operator requalification guidelines established in NUREG-1021, Operator Licensing Examination Standards for Power Reactors, and Inspection Procedure 71111.11, Licensed Operator Requalification Program. The inspectors also evaluated the licensees simulation facility for adequacy for use in operator licensing examinations using ANSI/ANS-3.5-1985, American National Standard for Nuclear Power Plant Simulators for use in Operator Training and Examination. The inspectors observed two shift crews during the performance of the operating tests. Documentation reviewed included written examinations, job performance measures (JPMs), simulator scenarios, licensee procedures, on-shift records, simulator modification request records, simulator performance test records, operator feedback records, licensed operator qualification records, remediation plans, watch-standing records, and medical records. The records were inspected using the criteria listed in Inspection Procedure 71111.11.
Resident Inspector Quarterly Review of Licensed Operator Requalification: On May 1, 2017, the inspectors observed evaluated simulator scenario, V-RQ-SE-17201, As-Found DEP Scenario, Ver. 1.1, administered to an operating crew conducted in accordance with the licensees accredited requalification training program.
The inspectors assessed the following:
- licensed operator performance
- the ability of the licensee to administer the scenario and evaluate the operators
- the quality of the post-scenario critique
- simulator performance Resident Inspector Quarterly Review of Licensed Operator Performance: The inspectors observed licensed operator performance in the main control room during a Unit 1 B train EDG monthly surveillance run on June 14, 2017 and again on June 27, 2017 during a Unit 2 control rod operability test.
The inspectors assessed the following:
- use of plant procedures
- control board manipulations
- communications between crew members
- use and interpretation of instruments, indications, and alarms
- use of human error prevention techniques
- documentation of activities
- management and supervision
b. Findings
No findings were identified.
1R12 Maintenance Effectiveness
a. Inspection Scope
The inspectors assessed the licensees treatment of the issue listed below to verify the licensee appropriately addressed equipment problems within the scope of the maintenance rule (10 CFR 50.65, Requirements for Monitoring the Effectiveness of Maintenance at Nuclear Power Plants). The inspectors reviewed procedures and records to evaluate the licensees identification, assessment, and characterization of the problems as well as their corrective actions for returning the equipment to a satisfactory condition. The inspectors also interviewed system engineers and the maintenance rule coordinator to assess the accuracy of performance deficiencies and extent of condition.
- Unit 2, nuclear service water system pump no. 3 tripped due to inadvertent lockout relay actuation, CR10289575 Quality Control Maintenance Effectiveness: The inspectors reviewed the licensees control of quality for the Unit 2 A train EDG direct current (DC) control power circuit.
The inspectors assessed the control of parts installed that were purchased as commercial grade parts but were dedicated prior to installation in a quality grade application. The inspectors also assessed the control of quality parts during the maintenance and troubleshooting process for DC control power issues on the EDG.
b. Findings
No findings were identified.
1R13 Maintenance Risk Assessments and Emergent Work Control
a. Inspection Scope
The inspectors reviewed the six maintenance activities listed below to verify that the licensee assessed and managed plant risk as required by 10 CFR 50.65(a)(4) and licensee procedures. The inspectors assessed the adequacy of the licensees risk assessments and implementation of risk management actions. The inspectors also verified that the licensee was identifying and resolving problems with assessing and managing maintenance-related risk using the corrective action program. Additionally, for maintenance resulting from unforeseen situations, the inspectors assessed the effectiveness of the licensees planning and control of emergent work activities.
- Unit 1, April 24, 2017, GREEN risk profile and risk management actions (RMAs)associated with B train EDG and B train NSCW tower fan no. 3 being out of service (OOS) for maintenance.
- Unit 1, May 22, 2017, YELLOW risk profile and RMAs associated with NSCW B train tower fan no. 4 and emergency containment coolers no. 7 and no. 8 being OOS for PMs.
- Unit 2, June 12, 2017 GREEN risk profile and RMAs associated with the TDAFW pump being OOS due to an emergent issue and the B train EDG being OOS for an extended PM outage.
- Unit 2, May 2 thru May 3, 2017, YELLOW risk profile and RMAs associated with A train 125VDC charger, 2AD1CA, and A train EDG being OOS for PMs.
b. Findings
No findings were identified.
1R15 Operability Determinations and Functionality Assessments
a. Inspection Scope
Operability Determinations and Functionality Assessments Review: The inspectors selected the five operability determinations or functionality evaluations listed below for review based on the risk-significance of the associated components and systems. The inspectors reviewed the technical adequacy of the determinations to ensure that technical specification operability was properly justified and the components or systems remained capable of performing their design functions. To verify whether components or systems were operable, the inspectors compared the operability and design criteria in the appropriate sections of the technical specification and updated final safety analysis report to the licensees evaluations. Where compensatory measures were required to maintain operability, the inspectors determined whether the measures in place would function as intended and were properly controlled. Additionally, the inspectors reviewed a sample of corrective action documents to verify the licensee was identifying and correcting any deficiencies associated with operability evaluations.
- Unit 1, operational decision-making issue (ODMI) worksheet associated with repairs for ultrasonic indications identified on the inside diameter of loop no. 4 cold leg safety injection line nozzle connecting to the reactor coolant system piping, TE982923
- Unit 1, operability determination for A train EDG due to building ventilation dampers not being open as expected during standby conditions, CR10357895
- Unit 1 and 2, operability determinations for the 1A and 2A train water pumps of the essential chilled water system due to excessive pump seal leakage, CRs 10378528 and 10378822
- Unit 2, operability determination for the B train EDG speed indication showing incorrectly in the integrated plant computer, CR10351094
- Unit 1, operability determination of the B train essential chilled water system chiller due to NSCW supply valve, TV11675, failure to open when demanded, CR10354953
b. Findings
No findings were identified.
1R18 Plant Modifications
a. Inspection Scope
The inspectors reviewed SNC852818 for instrumentation installation on the Unit 1 loop no. 4 safety injection nozzle. The inspectors assessed the following:
- Verified that the modifications did not affect the safety functions of important safety systems.
- Confirmed the modifications did not degrade the design bases, licensing bases, and performance capability of risk significant structures, systems and components.
- Verified modifications performed during plant configurations involving increased risk did not place the plant in an unsafe condition.
- Evaluated whether system operability and availability, configuration control, post-installation test activities, and changes to documents, such as drawings, procedures, and operator training materials, complied with licensee standards and NRC requirements.
- Reviewed a sample of related corrective action documents to verify the licensee was identifying and correcting any deficiencies associated with modifications.
b. Findings
No findings were identified.
1R19 Post-Maintenance Testing
a. Inspection Scope
The inspectors either observed post-maintenance testing or reviewed the test results for the five maintenance activities listed below to verify the work performed was completed correctly and the test activities were adequate to verify system operability and functional capability.
- SNC595390, Unit 1 B train NSCW tower fan no. 3 maintenance (torque fan blades, oil change, and inspection,) 4/24/17
- SNC857979, Unit 1 B train essential chiller NSCW supply valve motor replacement, 4/18/17
- SNC858819, Unit 1 B EDG functionality tests following logic board replacement, 4/25/17
- SNC868686, Unit 2 A train EDG electric governor replacement, 5/23/17
- SNC874430, Unit 2 TDAFW pump turbine speed control circuit tracking driver (NTD)card replacement, 6/12/17 The inspectors evaluated these activities for the following:
- Acceptance criteria were clear and demonstrated operational readiness.
- Effects of testing on the plant were adequately addressed.
- Test instrumentation was appropriate.
- Tests were performed in accordance with approved procedures.
- Equipment was returned to its operational status following testing.
- Test documentation was properly evaluated.
Additionally, the inspectors reviewed a sample of corrective action documents to verify the licensee was identifying and correcting any deficiencies associated with post-maintenance testing.
b. Findings
No findings were identified.
1R20 Refueling and Other Outage Activities
a. Inspection Scope
For the Unit 1 refueling outage (1R20), which ended on April 4, 2017, the inspectors evaluated the following outage activities:
- heatup and startup
- reactor coolant system instrumentation and electrical power configuration
- reactivity and inventory control
- decay heat removal and spent fuel pool cooling system operation
- containment closure The inspectors verified that the licensee:
- controlled plant configuration in accordance with administrative risk reduction methodologies
- developed work schedules to manage fatigue
- developed mitigation strategies for loss of key safety functions
- adhered to operating license and technical specification requirements Inspectors verified that safety-related and risk-significant structures, systems, and components not accessible during power operations were maintained in an operable condition. The inspectors also reviewed a sample of related corrective action documents to verify the licensee was identifying and correcting any deficiencies associated with outage activities.
b. Findings
No findings were identified.
1R22 Surveillance Testing
a. Inspection Scope
The inspectors reviewed the four surveillance tests listed below. The surveillance test was either observed directly or test results were reviewed to verify testing activities and results provide objective evidence that the affected equipment remain capable of performing their intended safety functions and maintain their operational readiness consistent with the facilitys current licensing basis. The inspectors evaluated the test activities to assess for:
- preconditioning of equipment,
- appropriate acceptance criteria,
- calibration and appropriateness of measuring and test equipment,
- procedure adherence, and
- equipment alignment following completion of the surveillance.
Additionally, the inspectors reviewed a sample of significant surveillance testing problems documented in the licensees corrective action program to verify the licensee was identifying and correcting any testing problems associated with surveillance testing.
Routine Surveillance Tests
- 14807A-1, Unit 1 A Train Motor Driven Auxiliary Feedwater Pump and Check Valve In-service and Response Time Test, Ver. 7
- 14805A-2, Unit 2 A Train Residual Heat Removal IST, Ver. 4.1 Reactor Coolant System Leak Detection
- 14905-2, Unit 2 Reactor Coolant System Leakage Calculation, Ver. 57.1
b. Findings
No findings were identified.
Cornerstone: Emergency Preparedness
1EP2 Alert and Notification System Evaluation
a. Inspection Scope
The inspectors evaluated the adequacy of the licensees methods for testing and maintaining the alert and notification system in accordance with NRC Inspection Procedure 71114, Attachment 02, Alert and Notification System Evaluation, dated July 21, 2016. The applicable planning standard, 10 CFR Part 50.47 (b) (5), and its related 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix E requirements were used as reference criteria. The criteria contained in NUREG-0654, Criteria for Preparation and Evaluation of Radiological Emergency Response Plans and Preparedness in Support of Nuclear Power Plants, Revision 1, were also used as a reference. The inspectors reviewed various documents, which are listed in the attachment to this report, and interviewed personnel responsible for system performance. This inspection activity satisfied one inspection sample for the alert and notification system on a biennial basis.
b. Findings
No findings were identified.
1EP3 Emergency Response Organization Staffing and Augmentation System
a. Inspection Scope
The inspectors reviewed the licensees Emergency Response Organization (ERO)augmentation staffing requirements and process for notifying the ERO to ensure the readiness of key staff for responding to an event and timely facility activation. The qualification records of key position ERO personnel were reviewed to ensure all ERO qualifications were current. A sample of problems identified from augmentation drills or system tests performed since the last inspection was reviewed to assess the effectiveness of corrective actions. The inspection was conducted in accordance with NRC Inspection Procedure 71114, Attachment 03, Emergency Response Organization Staffing and Augmentation System, dated July 21, 2016. The applicable planning standard, 10 CFR 50.47(b) (2), and its related 10 CFR 50, Appendix E requirements were used as reference criteria. The inspectors reviewed various documents that are listed in the attachment to this report. This inspection activity satisfied one inspection sample for the ERO staffing and augmentation system on a biennial basis.
b. Findings
No findings were identified.
1EP4 Emergency Action Level and Emergency Plan Changes
a. Inspection Scope
Since the last NRC inspection of this program area, one change was made to the Radiological Emergency Plan, five changes were made to the emergency action levels, and several changes were made to the implementing procedures. The licensee determined that, in accordance with 10 CFR 50.54(q), the Plan continued to meet the requirements of 10 CFR 50.47(b) and Appendix E to 10 CFR Part 50. The inspectors reviewed these changes to evaluate for potential reductions in the effectiveness of the Plan; however, this review was not documented in a Safety Evaluation Report and does not constitute formal NRC approval of the changes. Therefore, these changes remain subject to future NRC inspection in their entirety.
The inspection was conducted in accordance with NRC Inspection Procedure 71114, 04, Emergency Action Level and Emergency Plan Changes, dated July 21, 2016. The applicable planning standards of 10 CFR 50.47(b), and its related requirements in 10 CFR 50, Appendix E were used as reference criteria. The inspectors reviewed various documents that are listed in the attachment to this report. This inspection activity satisfied one inspection sample for the emergency action level and emergency plan changes on an annual basis.
b. Findings
No findings were identified.
1EP5 Maintenance of Emergency Preparedness
a. Inspection Scope
The inspectors reviewed the corrective actions identified through the Emergency Preparedness program to determine the significance of the issues, the completeness and effectiveness of corrective actions, and to determine if issues were recurring. The licensees post-event after action reports, self-assessments, and audits were reviewed to assess the licensees ability to be self-critical, thus avoiding complacency and degradation of their emergency preparedness program. Inspectors reviewed the licensees 10 CFR 50.54(q) change process, personnel training, and selected screenings and evaluations to assess adequacy. The inspectors toured facilities and reviewed equipment and facility maintenance records to assess licensees adequacy in maintaining them. The inspectors evaluated the capabilities of selected radiation monitoring instrumentation to adequately support Emergency Action Level (EAL)declarations.
The inspection was conducted in accordance with NRC Inspection Procedure 71114, 05, and Maintenance of Emergency Preparedness, dated July 21, 2016.
The applicable planning standards, related 10 CFR 50, Appendix E requirements, and 10 CFR 50.54(q) and
- (t) were used as reference criteria. The inspectors reviewed various documents which are listed in the attachment to this report. This inspection activity satisfied one inspection sample for the maintenance of emergency preparedness on a biennial basis.
b. Findings
No findings were identified.
OTHER ACTIVITIES
4OA1 Performance Indicator Verification
a. Inspection Scope
Cornerstone: Barrier Integrity
- reactor coolant system leak rate (both units)
- reactor coolant system specific activity (both units)
The inspectors reviewed a sample of the performance indicator (PI) data, submitted by the licensee, for the Unit 1 and Unit 2 PIs listed above. The inspectors reviewed plant records compiled between April 2016 and March 2017 to verify the accuracy and completeness of the data reported for the station. The inspectors verified that the PI data complied with guidance contained in Nuclear Energy Institute 99-02, Regulatory Assessment Performance Indicator Guideline, and licensee procedures. The inspectors verified the accuracy of reported data that were used to calculate the value of each PI.
In addition, the inspectors reviewed a sample of related corrective action documents to verify the licensee was identifying and correcting any deficiencies associated with PI data.
Cornerstone: Emergency Preparedness
- drill/exercise performance (DEP)
- emergency response organization drill participation (ERO)
- alert and notification system reliability (ANS)
The inspectors examined data reported to the NRC, procedural guidance for reporting PI information, and records used by the licensee to identify potential PI occurrences. The inspectors verified the accuracy of the PI for ERO drill and exercise performance through review of a sample of drill and event records. The inspectors reviewed selected training records to verify the accuracy of the PI for ERO drill participation for personnel assigned to key positions in the ERO. The inspectors verified the accuracy of the PI for alert and notification system reliability through review of a sample of the licensees records of periodic system tests. The inspectors also interviewed the licensee personnel who were responsible for collecting and evaluating the PI data. Licensee procedures, records, and other documents reviewed within this inspection area are listed in the Attachment. This inspection satisfied three inspection samples for PI verification on an annual basis.
b. Findings
No findings were identified.
4OA2 Problem Identification and Resolution
.1 Routine Review
The inspectors screened items entered into the licensees corrective action program in order to identify repetitive equipment failures or specific human performance issues for follow-up. The inspectors reviewed condition reports, attended screening meetings, or accessed the licensees computerized corrective action database.
.2 Semi-Annual Trend Review
a. Inspection Scope
The inspectors reviewed Unit 2 A train EDG 125VDC control power and DC-DC power supply converter (125VDC to 24VDC) failures in detail to evaluate the effectiveness of the licensees corrective actions for important safety issues. The review focused on the time period between the first control power failure on May 31, 2016 and most recent control power failure on March 8, 2017. The inspectors whether the issues were being properly:
- identified and accurately and completely documented,
- classified and prioritized,
- evaluated to identified root/apparent causes
- considered for extent of condition, generic implications, common cause, and previous occurrences; and
- corrected in a timely fashion.
Documents reviewed included engineering system health reports, condition reports, vendor failure analysis, work orders, and narrative logs.
b. Findings and Observations
No findings were identified. Several issues related to the control power circuits of the 2A EDG were noted during the trend review. There were three instances where the control power breaker for either the A or B control circuit tripped open. On May 31, 2016, the A circuit breaker tripped, on January 19, 2017, the B circuit breaker tripped, and on February 22, 2017, the A circuit tripped (CRs 10229803, 10320302, 10334755). Three failed DC-DC power supplies were also identified during this period. On June 6, 2016, the A control circuit DC-DC power supply was identified failed (CR10232634) during a test run; and on March 8, 2017, both A and B control circuits DC-DC power supplies were identified failed with burnt traces in their printed control boards during a test run, which rendered the EDG inoperable (CR10340120). Licensee troubleshooting for each breaker trip event was limited to circuit power light indication sockets and bulbs, which appeared to be the cause of the overcurrent conditions given successful power restoration (i.e. closure of the breaker) following corrective maintenance of the light socket/bulb.
The inspectors noted there was a correlation between the control circuit breaker trip events and DC-DC power supply failures, however, the two types of failures could not be conclusively tied together. The inspectors concluded that given the information available during each of the events, it was not reasonable for the licensee to have identified the two DC-DC power supplies that failed prior to being identified by the licensee on March 8, 2017. The inspectors also noted that the control power and DC-DC power supply failure issues were only seen on the 2A EDG and not on the 2B, 1A, nor 1B EDGs. The licensee continued to investigate the cause of the DC-DC power supply failures and implemented compensatory measures to ensure the standby readiness of the EDG control power circuits. The inspectors will continue to monitor licensee activities to address the cause of the control power and DC-DC power supply failures.
During the review, the inspectors noted that in each of the three control power breaker failures, the licensee did not perform an operability determination or enter Technical Specification (TS) Limiting Condition for Operation (LCO) 3.8.3.F for the EDG building ventilation system when emergency fans were rendered inoperable during the loss of control power events that disabled the fans auto-start control circuitry. In each of the control power failures, control power was restored prior to exceeding the LCO Required Action Completion Time of 14 days, thus did not result in a TS violation. The inspectors discussed the issue with the licensee who initiated CR10376830 to document this issue in the corrective action program.
4OA5 Other Activities
.1 (Closed) Licensee Event Report 05000424/2017-001-00, Unit 1 Manual Reactor Trip
due to Main Steam Isolation Valve Closure
a. Inspection Scope
On February 3, 2017, at approximately 1545 EST, operators manually tripped Unit 1 when the loop no. 1 outboard main steam isolation valve (MSIV) 1HV3006B began drifting closed due to a hydraulic fluid leak. All control rods fully inserted, all equipment actuated as designed, and the unit was stabilized in Mode 3 with the heat sink being maintained by AFW and through the atmospheric relief valves. Investigation into the event found that the fluid leak was caused by an O-ring failure at the MSIV lower manifold pressure boundary. The O-ring failed from extrusion due to a radial misalignment between the cylinder boss and corresponding O-ring counter-bore in the manifold. The inspectors reviewed the LER, associated condition reports, and cause determination to understand the cause of the event and reviewed the corrective actions.
This LER is closed.
b. Findings
Introduction:
A self-revealing, Green, non-cited violation of 10 CFR 50 Appendix B, Criterion XVI, Corrective Action, was identified for the licensees failure to identify and correct a condition adverse to quality (i.e., manufacturing deficiency), which led to a repetitive failure of MSIV 1HV-3006B. The failure to determine the cause of a significant condition adverse to quality and take corrective action to preclude repetition was a performance deficiency. Specifically, the licensee failed to identify the root cause of an MSIV actuator failure on April 12, 2014, that resulted in a reactor trip. As a result, appropriate corrective actions were not taken and a repeat failure of the valve actuator caused another reactor trip on February 3, 2017.
Description:
On February 3, 2017, Unit 1 was manually tripped from 100% power when MSIV 1HV-3006B drifted closed. The licensee determined that the MSIV drifted closed due to a hydraulic fluid leak caused by a failed O-ring. Subsequent disassembly and troubleshooting revealed a slight radial misalignment between the valve actuators cylinder port boss and corresponding O-ring counter-bore in the actuators lower manifold. Visual and blue checks performed by the licensee and confirmed an unsymmetrical cylinder boss radius and mating surface alignment. The licensee initiated condition report (CR) 10326456 and performed a root cause evaluation for the event.
The evaluation determined that the root cause of the actuator failure was insufficient support of the O-ring resulting from original design and manufacture. The insufficient support, and resulting misalignment, of the O-ring led to O-ring extrusion and failure under hydraulic pressure.
On April 12, 2014, Unit 1 was manually tripped from 28% power due to MSIV 1HV-3006B drifting closed (LER 2014-002-00). The licensee initiated CR 800018 following the reactor trip and performed a root cause evaluation that determined the cause for the failure was a hydraulic fluid leak due to the failure of the same O-ring that failed on February 3, 2017. The O-ring failure was determined to be most likely caused by the O-ring being pinched during installation. Prior to this event, a nearly identical failure occurred on June 28, 1990, when Unit 2 was manually tripped due to MSIV 2HV-3026A drifting closed due to a hydraulic fluid leak (LER 90-008-00) at the same O-ring location.
The failure in 1990 of this O-ring was determined to be due to a slight misalignment of the actuators cylinder port boss and lower manifold assembly along with the valve manifold not being properly torqued.
The inspectors determined that during the causal evaluation for the 2014 event, the licensee failed to recognize the significance of the operating experience from the 1990 event where the same actuator pressure boundary O-ring failed causing a plant trip.
The long term corrective action from the 1990 event was to machine a back-ring to place in the manifold port to create more seating area for the boss to insure metal to metal contact concentrically around the O-ring. This corrective action was not evaluated during the analysis of the 2014 event. The 2014 root cause evaluation focused almost exclusively on the failed O-ring and concluded that the O-ring was pinched during installation due to a weakness in maintenance practices.
Analysis:
The inspectors concluded that the failure to determine the cause of a significant condition adverse to quality and take corrective action to preclude repetition was a performance deficiency. Specifically, the licensees failure to determine the cause of the MSIV closure in 2014 using existing site operating experience and data from the 1990 event resulted in the significant condition adverse to quality (manufacturing deficiency) reoccurring in 2017 and causing a manual reactor trip. This performance deficiency is more than minor because it is associated with the Human Performance attribute of the Initiating Events Cornerstone, and adversely affected the cornerstone objective of limiting the likelihood of events that upset plant stability and challenge critical safety functions during shutdown as well as power operations. The finding was screened using IMC 0609, Appendix A, dated June 19, 2012, and was determined to be Green using Exhibit 1, Initiating Events, Transient Initiators, because the PD did not result in a loss of mitigation equipment used to transition the reactor to a stable shutdown condition. The finding was not assigned a cross cutting aspect since it was not indicative of current licensee performance due to the root cause evaluation in question being performed greater than three years ago.
Enforcement:
10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion XVI, Corrective Action, states, in part, in the case of significant conditions adverse to quality, that measures shall assure that the cause of the condition is determined and corrective action taken to preclude repetition. Contrary to the above, the licensee failed to determine the cause of the MSIV actuator O-ring failure on April 12, 2014, such that corrective actions could be taken to preclude repetition. As a result, the MSIV O-ring failed again on February 3, 2017, resulting in a manual reactor trip. The licensee corrective action following the February 3, 2017, actuator failure was to install a carbon steel bushing in the manifold O-ring counter bore with a reduced O-ring to ensure proper alignment and metal to metal contact around the O-ring of the Lower Manifold and MSIV actuator interface. This violation is being treated as an NCV, consistent with Section 2.3.2.a of the NRC Enforcement Policy and was entered in the licensees corrective action program as CR10326456. (NCV 05000424/2017002-001, Failure to Correct a Condition Adverse to Quality Involving an MSIV Manufacturing Deficiency.)
.2 (Closed) Licensee Event Reports 05000424/2017-002-00 and 05000424/2017-002-01,
Wiring Error Results in Automatic Actuation of a Safety System
a. Inspection Scope
On March 17, 2017, at approximately 1517 EDT, with Unit 1 shutdown for 1R20, power was being restored to an open phase protection system, which was being installed during the outage, for the Unit 1 B reserve auxiliary transformer (RAT). During restoration, the 'B' train 4160-volt emergency power bus lost its offsite power feed and resulted in an automatic actuation of the B EDG to power the bus. The cause of the event was determined to be a wiring error of the open phase protection system alarm and trip circuitry to the B RAT. The inspectors reviewed the LER, associated condition reports, and cause determination to understand the cause of the event and reviewed the corrective actions. This LER is closed.
b. Findings
Introduction:
A Green, self-revealing, NCV of TS 5.4.1.a, Procedures, was identified for the licensees failure to redline new wiring installation associated with an open phase protection system modification installation. As result, control circuit wires were not installed per wiring diagrams and caused a loss of the offsite power feed to the B train 4160-volt emergency power bus. The licensee's failure to redline new wiring installation associated with an open phase protection system modification installation, as required by work instruction SNC804606 and maintenance procedure NMP-MA-017 was a performance deficiency.
Description:
As described in LER 05000424/2017-002-00, on March 17, 2017, while restoring control power to the Unit 1 'B' RAT alarm circuit, as part of the installation and testing of an open phase protection system modification, the unit lost offsite power to the
'B' train 4160-volt emergency power bus, 1BA03. The under voltage condition resulted in the automatic actuation of the 'B' train EDG, which started and powered the bus. At the time of the event, Unit 1 was in Mode 6 and in the process of being defueled.
Shutdown cooling to the unit was not affected because it was being provided by the 'A' train residual heat removal system, powered from the 'A' train 4160-volt emergency power bus, 1AA02. Following the event, all open phase modification work was suspended. Licensee troubleshooting determined the alarm and trip actuation circuit wires from the open phase protection system were improperly labeled and transposed at the 'B' RAT control panel. When power was restored to the circuit, an invalid fault signal was generated within the 'B' RAT and caused the offsite power supply breaker to 1BA03 to open.
The licensee determined that the inadvertent transposition of the alarm and trip wire labels should have been caught by the electricians terminating the wires to the 'B' RAT control panel before restoring power. Specifically, the work instructions (SNC804606)for terminating the wires to the B RAT control panel required the new wires to be redlined following termination at the panel, in accordance with procedure NMP-MA-017, "Red Line Drawings," Ver. 1.2. The redline procedure required wire continuity checks to confirm the wires were installed in accordance with the wiring diagrams, however; the technicians simply terminated the wires as labeled.
The licensee entered this issue into their corrective action program under condition reports 10343972 and 10344136 and took corrective actions to restore the wiring to the correct configuration, verified correct configuration on the 'A' RAT, and restored offsite power to the emergency bus. Also, 'Just-in-Time' training was provided to all crews performing cable terminations and redlining.
Analysis:
The licensee's failure to redline new wiring installation associated with an open phase protection system modification installation, as required by work instructions SNC804606 and maintenance procedure NMP-MA-017 was a performance deficiency.
The performance deficiency was more than minor because it was associated with the human performance attribute of the mitigating systems cornerstone and adversely affected the cornerstone objective to ensure the availability, reliability, and capability of systems that respond to initiating events to prevent undesirable consequences. This resulted in an incorrect wiring configuration that affected the electric power availability from the offsite power to the 'B' 4160-volt emergency power bus. The inspectors used Inspection Manual Chapter (IMC) 0609, Attachment 04, "Initial Characterization of Findings," dated October 7, 2016, to evaluate the significance of the finding. Since the plant was shut down, the inspectors were directed to IMC 0609, Appendix G, Attachment 1, "Shutdown Operations Significance Determination Process Phase 1 Initial Screening and Characterization of Findings," dated May 9, 2014. Using Appendix G, Attachment 1, Exhibit 3, "Mitigating Systems Screening Questions." The inspectors determined the finding was of very low safety significance (Green) because all exhibit questions were answered 'No' because shutdown cooling to the unit was not affected, as it was being provided by the 'A' train of the residual heat removal system at the time of the event.
The inspectors determined the finding had a cross-cutting aspect of Procedure Adherence in the Human Performance area because individuals did not follow work instructions and redline procedures when installing new wiring for the open phase protection system [H.8].
Enforcement:
Technical Specification 5.4.1.a, Procedures, required, in part, that written procedures covering the applicable procedures recommended in Appendix A to Regulatory Guide 1.33, Quality Assurance Program Requirements, of February 1978, shall be implemented. Appendix A, Item 9 required, in part, that maintenance activities that can affect the performance of safety-related equipment should be performed in accordance with written documented instructions appropriate to the circumstances.
Contrary to the above, on March 17, 2017, the licensee failed to install open phase protection system wiring in accordance with documented instructions which resulted in a loss of offsite power to the safety-related B' train emergency power bus. The licensee took corrective actions to correct the wiring configuration and restored offsite power to the emergency bus. This violation is being treated as an NCV, consistent with Section 2.3.2.a of the Enforcement Policy. This violation was entered into the licensee's corrective action program as condition reports 10343972 and 10344136. (NCV 05000424/2017002-02, Failure to Follow Work Instructions for Implementation of Open Phase Protection System)
.3 Institute of Nuclear Power Operations Report Review
In accordance with Executive Director of Operations Procedure 0220, Coordination with the Institute of Nuclear Power Operations, the inspectors reviewed the most recent INPO evaluation and accreditation reports to determine if those reports identified safety or training issues not previously identified by NRC evaluations. The reports contained no safety issues that were not already known by the NRC.
.4 Operation of an Independent Spent Fuel Storage Installation (ISFSI) (60855.1)
a. Inspection Scope
The inspectors performed a walkdown of the onsite ISFSI on June 28, 2017. The inspectors observed each cask passive ventilation system to be free of any obstruction allowing natural draft convection decay heat removal through the air inlet and air outlet openings. The inspectors observed associated cask structures to be structurally intact and radiation protection access controls to the ISFSI area to be satisfactory.
The inspectors also reviewed surveillance records to verify that daily surveillance requirements were performed as required by technical specifications.
b. Findings
No findings were identified.
4OA6 Meetings, Including Exit
On July 5, 2017, the resident inspectors presented the inspection results to Mr. Darin Myers and other members of the licensees staff. The inspectors confirmed that proprietary information was not provided or examined during the inspection period.
ATTACHMENT:
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
KEY POINTS OF CONTACT
Licensee personnel
- A. Lowe, Nuclear Operations Plant Instructor
- D. Komm, Plant Manager
- D. Myers, Site Vice-President
- D. Sutton, Regulatory Affairs Manager
- E. Berry, Engineering Director
- G. Ohmstede, Fleet Training Manager
- I. White, Licensing Supervisor
- J. Deal, Emergency Preparedness Supervisor
- J. Dixon, Radiation Protection Manager
- K. Jenkins, Nuclear Operations Plant Instructor
- K. Walden, Licensing Engineer
- M. Henson, Operations Training Manager
- M. Norris, Shift Operations Manager
- M. Williams, RP Superintendent
- R. Kelly, Nuclear Operations Plant Instructor
- S. Fleshman, Asst Training Manager Operations
- T. Baker, Security Manager
- T. Fowler, Chemistry Manager
- T. Krienke, Operations Director
- W. Davenport, Training
NRC personnel
Shane Sandal, Chief, Region II Reactor Projects Branch 2
LIST OF REPORT ITEMS
Opened and Closed
- 05000424/2017002-01 NCV Failure to Correct a Condition Adverse to Quality involving an MSIV Manufacturing Deficiency (4OA5)
- 05000424/2017002-02 NCV Failure to Follow Work Instructions for Implementation of Open Phase Protection System (4OA5)
Closed
- 05000424/2017-001-00 LER Manual Reactor Trip due to Main Steam Isolation Valve Closure (4OA5)
- 05000424/2017-002-00 LER Wiring Error Results in Automatic Actuation of a and 2017-002-01 Safety System (4OA5)