NRC Generic Letter 80-83, Environmental Qualification of Safety-Related Equipment

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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

8012220486