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 Discovered dateReporting criterionTitleDescriptionLER
ENS 4542410 October 2009 18:21:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(v)(D), Loss of Safety Function - Mitigate the Consequences of an AccidentControl Room Filtration Out of Service for Maintainance

Post maintenance operability testing of the 'A' CREF (Control Room Emergency Filtration) subsystem will result in a planned potential loss of safety function for the CREF for a brief period of time when the 'B' CREF subsystem is simultaneously made inoperable during the testing. Clear guidance for timely restoration of the 'B' CREF subsystem, and therefore, CREF safety function is included in the test procedure. An operator will be dedicated to the testing to ensure that the CREF will perform its safety function if required. The licensee will notify the NRC Resident Inspector.

  • * * RETRACTION AT 1525 EST ON 12/04/09 FROM COOK TO HUFFMAN * * *

Monticello is retracting the event reported based on further evaluation. An investigation of the event found the removal of the (CREF) system from service was part of a planned evolution for maintenance or surveillance testing and done in accordance with an approved procedure and the plant's TS (Technical Specifications). In addition, the event would not have prevented the completion of the fulfillment of a safety function since an operator was stationed and briefed that in the event of the start of any transient, the CREF system would be immediately restored to operability and thereby ensure the train would have been available to perform its safety function In its required timeframe. The licensee has notified the NRC Resident Inspector. R3DO (Riemer) notified.

ENS 4583010 April 2010 13:00:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(xiii), Loss of Emergency PreparednessPlant Phone System Out of Service for Planned Maintenance

On April 10, 2010, the Monticello Nuclear Generating Plant (MNGP) will be performing planned maintenance to upgrade the site phone system. The maintenance activity will result in the majority of commercial phone lines to the site and the onsite phone system being taken out-of-service for approximately two hours starting at approximately 0800 CDT. The site NRC Emergency Telephone System (ETS), phone lines (which includes ENS, HPN, and ERDS), auto ring lines between the site and the State of MN Emergency Operations Center, onsite radio communication systems, offsite radio communications systems, and the plant Gaitronics system will be unaffected by the maintenance activity. In addition, a commercial phone line in the Control Room and dedicated cellular phone for the Shift Manager will be available for off-site communications. The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector and will notify state and local agencies.

  • * * UPDATE FROM NICK KRAMER TO CHARLES TEAL AT 1604 EDT ON 4/10/2010 * * *

On April 10, 2010 at 1030 hours use of the commercial phone lines and the on-site phone system was restored to the Monticello Nuclear Generating Plant (MNGP). Testing activities are in progress/completed to verify the functionality of affected phones. The licensee has notified the NRC Resident Inspector. Notified R3DO (Peterson).

ENS 459753 June 2010 15:50:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(v)(D), Loss of Safety Function - Mitigate the Consequences of an Accident
10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(v)(C), Loss of Safety Function - Release of Radioactive Material
Secondary Containment Briefly DegradedOn June 3rd, 2010, at 1050 CST, both doors in Airlock 413 from Secondary Containment (SCT) to the Rad Waste 985' Pump Room were opened simultaneously for approximately five seconds and subsequently re-closed. This condition caused an unplanned entry into Technical Specification 3.6.4.1.A for SCT. The condition could have prevented the Standby Gas Treatment system from developing a negative pressure within SCT following a design basis accident. This negative pressure is required to prevent ground level releases of radioactivity and minimize onsite and offsite dose consequences following an accident, The Standby Gas Treatment system remained operable throughout the event. The site continues to assess the situation. The licensee has notified the NRC Resident Inspector and will also notify State authorities.
ENS 4601616 June 2010 15:15:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(xiii), Loss of Emergency PreparednessLoss of Emergency SirensOn June 16, 2010, at approximately 1015 hours (CDT), the Monticello Nuclear Generating plant determined that there was a loss of 48 out of 106 Emergency Preparedness sirens. No counties other than Sherburne County were affected. Availability of less than 70% of the total number of sirens is considered to be a loss of emergency off-site response capability and is reportable under 10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(xiii), 'Loss of Emergency Preparedness Capabilities.' Notification to the public in the event of an emergency has not been compromised since a back-up notification method is provided in the station's Emergency Plan. At this time there is no estimated return to service time for the sirens. The station is working on restoration of the sirens. A follow-up notification of the return to service of the sirens will be provided once the issue is corrected. Sherburne County, the State of Minnesota, and the NRC Resident (Inspectors) have been informed of this event. Updated Information: At 1320 hours on June 16, 2010, sirens have been returned to service. Siren activation capability has been restored via the secondary method of activation. Investigation and repair of the primary method of siren activation continues.
ENS 4602317 June 2010 15:45:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(2)(xi), Notification to Government Agency or News ReleaseOffsite Notification Due to Inadvertent Initiation of Emergency Preparedness SirensAt 1045 (CDT) on 6/17/2010, the Monticello Nuclear Power Generating Plant (MNGP) received a report from the Sherburne County Sheriff Dispatcher that there had been an inadvertent manual initiation of Emergency Preparedness sirens in the county while performing siren testing in preparation for inclement weather anticipated later this evening. All plant conditions/parameters are normal. A total of 48 emergency sirens were on for approximately 1 minute before being secured. The inadvertent initiation of the sirens was determined to be reportable under 10 CFR 50.72(b)(2)(xi), 'News Release or Notification of Other Government Agency.' Sherburne County, the State of Minnesota, and the site NRC Resident Inspector have been notified.
ENS 4611321 July 2010 13:16:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(2)(xi), Notification to Government Agency or News ReleaseInadvertent Manual Initiation of Emergency Alert SirensAt 0816 (CDT) on 7/21/2010, the Monticello Nuclear Power Generating Plant (MNGP) received a report from the Sherburne County Sheriff Dispatcher that there had been an inadvertent manual initiation of Emergency Preparedness sirens in the county while performing siren testing. All plant conditions/parameters are normal. A total of 48 emergency sirens were on for approximately 1 minute before being secured. The inadvertent initiation of the sirens was determined to be reportable under 10 CFR 50.72(b)(2)(xi), 'News Release or Notification of Other Government Agency.' Sherburne County, the State of Minnesota, and the site NRC Resident Inspector have been notified.
ENS 461526 August 2010 12:00:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(xiii), Loss of Emergency PreparednessTechnical Support Center (Tsc) Planned Maintenance Activity

On 8/6/10 at 0700 CDT the Monticello Nuclear Generating Plant's (MNGP) Technical Support Center uninterruptible power supply will be isolated to perform a planned maintenance activity. The maintenance activity requires implementation of compensatory measures to maintain TSC functions during the activity. The compensatory measures include having the Emergency Director report to the Control Room and co-locating the remaining TSC staff at the EOF should an event be declared requiring ERO activation. The ERO has previously successfully demonstrated the ability to implement these compensatory measures. The maintenance activity is scheduled to be completed with the TSC returned to full functionality by the end of the dayshift on 8/6/10. The Site Emergency Response Organization has been notified of the maintenance activity and instructed on the planned compensatory measures to be implemented during the activity. MNGP will notify the NRC upon completion of the activity restoring full TSC operability. This event is considered reportable per 10CFR50.72(b)(3)(xiii). The licensee has notified the NRC Resident Inspector. The licensee will inform both State and local agencies.

  • * * UPDATE AT 2015 EDT ON 8/6/10 FROM MARTIN RAJKOWSKI TO S. SANDIN * * *

On 8/6/10 at 1705 CDT the Monticello Nuclear Generating Plant's Technical Support Center was returned to full operability. The Monticello Emergency Response Organization has been notified and the compensatory measures that were in effect have been terminated. The licensee has notified the NRC Resident Inspector. The licensee will inform both State and local agencies. Notified R3DO (Stone).

ENS 461555 August 2010 16:45:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(v)(D), Loss of Safety Function - Mitigate the Consequences of an Accident
10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(v)(C), Loss of Safety Function - Release of Radioactive Material
Momentary Loss of Secondary Containment Due to Personnel Passing Through Open AirlocksOn August 5, 2010 at 1145 CDT, both doors in Airlock 413 from Secondary Containment (SCT) to the 985 ft Radwaste Pump Room were simultaneously open for a period of approximately five (5) seconds and subsequently reclosed. This condition caused an unplanned entry into Technical Specification 3.6.4.1.A for SCT. The condition could have prevented the Standby Gas Treatment system from developing a negative pressure with SCT following a design basis accident. This negative pressure is required to prevent ground level release of radioactivity and to minimize onsite and offsite dose consequences following an accident. The Standby Gas Treatment system remained operable throughout the event. The licensee will inform the State and has notified the NRC Resident Inspector.
ENS 4628025 September 2010 07:57:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(xiii), Loss of Emergency PreparednessLoss of Erds, Spds and Tsc Phone Lines Due to Uninteruptable Power Supply Failure

On 9/25/10 at approximately 0237 CDT, the site experienced a loss of the Uninterruptable Power Supply UPS Y91. This resulted in a loss of power to the Safety Parameter Display System (SPDS) and site computer servers which disabled the Emergency Response Data System (ERDS). In addition, in-house Technical Support Center (TSC) telephones were lost (the NRC phone lines in the TSC are still available) rendering the TSC non-functional. The alternate TSC is functional and will be used, if needed, to implement the Emergency Plan (EOF Phones were unaffected). Alternate assessment capability is fully functional and will meet necessary requirements to implement the Emergency Plan. Troubleshooting efforts are underway. This event is reportable under 10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(xiii). The licensee stated that the Y91 UPS supplies a non-vital 125 volt dc bus and has no safety impact on plant operation and is not subject to any technical specification LCO. The NRC Resident Inspector has been notified.

* * * UPDATE FROM MARTIN RAJKOWSKI TO PETE SNYDER AT 1656 ON 9/25/10 * * *

All equipment noted as out of service above has been returned to service as of 1541 CDT on 9/25/10. Notified R3DO (Skokowski).

ENS 4632711 October 2010 18:05:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(ii)(B), Unanalyzed ConditionTechnical Specification Does Not Account for Power Uprate

On October 11, 2010 at 1305 CDT it was identified that the analysis of record for the Technical Specification 3.3.5.1, Table 3.3.5.1-1 function 1e and 2e, Reactor Steam Dome Pressure Permissive-Bypass timer (Pump Permissive) did not reflect current plant conditions. Specifically, the analysis was not updated to account for any increase in plant licensed power and a change to the RWCU (Reactor Water Cleanup System) isolation for enhanced ability to isolate RWCU on a line break on critical crack. The allowable value for these function is greater than or equal to 18 minutes and less than or equal to 22 minutes. All equipment associated with emergency core cooling function are unaffected. Discussion with General Electric indicates that a margin exists to accommodate the higher power level. Additionally, the changes to the RWCU isolation logic added leak detection instruments that will isolate RWCU earlier for the majority of pipe leaks. This discovery is being reported as an unanalyzed condition solely due to the lack of a formal analysis of current plant conditions. The NRC Resident Inspector has been notified.

  • * * RETRACTION FROM MARTIN RAJKOWSKI TO JOHN KNOKE AT 1451 ON 10/29/10 * * *

Under NUREG-0737, Item II.K.3.18 is a regulatory requirement to implement a modification to extend the ADS (Automatic Depressurization System) to a unique event sequence that involves multiple failures including HPCI (High Pressure Coolant Injection) plus no operator action after 10 minutes. According to Item II.K.3.18, the bypass timer logic complements, but does not replace, the existing ADS actuation logic. This requirement is not associated with any design basis accident mitigation sequence at MNGP (Monticello Nuclear Generating Plant). The plant has performed an evaluation that addresses the changes in plant thermal power and RWCU (Reactor Water Cleanup System) enhanced isolation capabilities to the analysis of record. This evaluation concluded that Peak Clad Temperature (PCT) will remain under the 2200 ?F acceptance limit with the current Technical Specification allowable value, current plant configuration and current licensed thermal power. GEH (General Electric) did an independent evaluation that concluded that based on use of limiting scenarios analyzed for MNGP, this condition is only a lack of formal analysis of current plant conditions and that no Substantial Safety Hazard exists. It is judged that the maximum Reactor Steam Dome Pressure Permissive-Bypass timer (Pump Permissive) setting of 22 minutes will not result in a predicted PCT higher than 2200?F with consideration of the RWCU pipe break isolation instrumentation modification. Since the timers with their current setpoint will protect the fuel cladding, this event does not significantly degrade safety. Therefore, the event notification made on October 11, 2010 is being retracted. The licensee has notified the NRC Resident Inspector. Notified R3DO (Skokowski)

ENS 463944 November 2010 05:00:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(v)(D), Loss of Safety Function - Mitigate the Consequences of an Accident
10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(v)(C), Loss of Safety Function - Release of Radioactive Material
Containment Air Lock Doors Not Operated ProperlyOn November 4, 2010, at 11:28 AM both doors in airlock 124 from secondary containment to access control were simultaneously open for a period <5 seconds. The doors were immediately closed. This condition resulted in an unplanned entry into Technical Specification 3.6.4.1.A for secondary containment. The condition could have prevented the Standby Gas Treatment System from developing a negative pressure within secondary containment following a design basis accident. This negative pressure is required to prevent ground consequences following an accident. The Standby Gas Treatment System remained operable throughout the event. The licensee was decreasing power at the time of the report for a condition unrelated to the report. The licensee will notify the Minnesota Duty Officer. The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector.
ENS 463975 November 2010 04:25:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(v)(A), Loss of Safety Function - Shutdown the Reactor
10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(v)(D), Loss of Safety Function - Mitigate the Consequences of an Accident
Four Average Power Range Monitors Outside Allowable Range

Following a power reduction to 49 percent reactor thermal power at approximately 2312 (CDT) on November 4, 2010, 'B' high pressure feedwater heaters were isolated at approximately 2320 in preparation for repair of the 15B feedwater heater. Calculated core thermal power (CTP) rose by approximately 50 MWth. This resulted in all four average power range monitors (APRMs) failing to satisfy Technical Specification (TS) Surveillance Requirement SR 3.3.1.1.2 in that the absolute difference between the APRMs and the calculated power from the heat balance was greater than 2.0 percent rated thermal power (RTP). All four APRM channels were between approximately 3.5 and 4.0 percent lower than CTP. Since all four APRM channels were affected, the functions of the APRMs were inoperable and RPS trip capability had not been maintained. TS Conditions 3.3.1.1.A and 3.3.1.1.C were entered at 2325. All four APRM gains were adjusted and the TS Conditions were exited at 2349. This event is reportable under 10CFR50.72(b)(3)(v) as an event that could have prevented the fulfillment of the safety function of a system needed to: (A) shutdown the reactor and (D) mitigate the consequences of an accident. This event notification is being submitted outside the 8 hour reporting requirement. The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector.

  • * * UPDATE FROM RANDY SCHULTZ TO HOWIE CROUCH AT 1652 EST ON 11/7/10 * * *

The following is an update to Event Notification 46397 made on 5 November 2010 concerning Average Power Range Monitors (APRMs) inoperability due to >2% deviation from calculated Core Thermal Power (CTP). During review of inputs to the CTP calculation, Operations staff determined that indicated power levels were not consistent with the indicated electrical output of the turbine generator. Subsequent investigation revealed an erroneous feedwater flow input from the isolated 'B' feedwater heater string. Actual CTP was less than indicated CTP by approximately 50 MWth. This was validated and verified through manual calculation. 50 MWth constitutes approximately 3% of rated thermal power. With the adjustments made to APRM on 4 November 2010, this resulted in all four APRMs being outside of the acceptable tech spec value. Following Operations review, at 1108 on November 7, 2010, all four APRMs were declared inoperable and tech. spec. 3.3.1.1.A and 3.3.1.1.C actions were initiated. Values consistent with the actual plant configuration ('B' feedwater heater string isolated) were input to the CTP calculation with subsequent indicated CTP returning to actual CTP. All four APRM gains were adjusted and APRMs returned to operable status. Tech Spec 3,3.1.1.A and 3.3.1.1.C conditions were exited at 1207 on November 7, 2010. The licensee has notified the NRC Resident Inspector. Notified R3DO (Giessner).

ENS 464079 November 2010 17:39:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(2)(xi), Notification to Government Agency or News ReleaseOffsite Notification - Violation of the Discharge PermitThe Minnesota Pollution Control Agency was notified (on 11/9/10) at 1139 hours (CST) today that at Monticello, the Circulating Water and Service Water Streams were simultaneously chlorinated for a duration of approximately one (1) hour. Simultaneous chlorination of these two water streams is a violation of the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Permit. Chapter 4, Section 2.3, states, 'The condenser cooling water and the service water shall not be chlorinated simultaneously.' Upon discovery of this event, both the Service Water and the Circulating Water bleach injection skids were secured. This event did not result in bleach discharge concentration in excess of the 0.038 ppm concentration set forth in the NPDES permit. The licensee notified NRC Resident Inspector.
ENS 4641712 November 2010 18:10:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(ii)(B), Unanalyzed ConditionUnanalyzed 10Cfr50 Appendix R ScenarioAt approximately 1210 on November 12, 2010, a fire protection assessment identified a potentially unanalyzed condition in the plant's 10CFR50 Appendix R analysis. In the unlikely event of a fire in the main control room or cable spreading room, coincident with a fire induced loss of off site power, in which the control room must be evacuated, Operations personnel would proceed to the Alternate Shutdown System (ASDS) panel to perform required safe shutdown activities. During certain scenarios, High Pressure Coolant Injection (HPCI) may start on a reactor low-low water level signal or on high drywell pressure signal. Since HPCI is not controlled manually from the ASDS, a postulated fire induced short could prevent the HPCI system high reactor water level trip and possibly result in reactor vessel overfill. Operation of the Safety Relief Valves in this condition has not been analyzed. For this scenario, the following unlikely sequence of events is required: 1. A fire would have to occur in the main control room or cable spreading room 2. The fire would have to be significant enough to require main control room evacuation 3. Offsite power would have to be lost 4. HPCI would have to initiate 5. A fire induced short preventing HPCI from tripping automatically would have to occur Applicable safety systems remain operable, and Operations personnel are trained in procedures to handle complex fire scenarios, including fires in the main control room and cable spreading room. Additionally, the cable spreading room is protected by an automatic Halon fire suppression system. As a precaution, a fire watch has been established as a compensatory measure. This event is being reported under 10CFR50.72(b)(3)(ii)(B). The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector.
ENS 4643122 November 2010 23:47:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(v)(D), Loss of Safety Function - Mitigate the Consequences of an Accident
10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(v)(C), Loss of Safety Function - Release of Radioactive Material
Valves Identified Open in Mode 2 That Should Have Been ClosedAt 1547 CST, November 22, 2010, the reactor mode was changed from Mode 4 to Mode 2 with the main steam drain valves, which are primary containment isolation valves, tagged open with power removed from their respective breakers. The valves were tagged to comply with S/D (Shutdown) operating procedure requirements. The valves should have been restored prior to making the mode change. The main steam line drain isolation valves MO-2373 and MO-2374 were restored at 1747 CST and verified at 1755 CST. Startup was held for determination of further actions needed. Reactor startup recommenced at 2200 CST. Currently the reactor is not critical. The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector. The licensee notified the Minnesota State Duty Officer.
ENS 4649620 December 2010 09:57:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(iv)(A), System ActuationFuel Pool/Reactor Building Exhaust Plenum Primary Power Supply FailedAt 0357 December 20, 2010 the 'A' division Fuel Pool/Reactor Building Exhaust Plenum Primary Power Supply failed, resulting in upscale readings on both the Fuel Pool and Reactor Building Ventilation Plenum radiation monitors. This condition resulted in closure of the Group II Primary Containment Isolation Valves (PCIV), isolation of Secondary Containment (SCT), initiation of the Standby Gas Treatment System (SBGT), and a transfer of the Control Room Ventilation (CRV) and Control Room Emergency Filtration (CREF) systems to the High Radiation Mode. Conditions and Required Actions were entered for Technical Specification 3.3.6.2 (SCT Instrumentation), 3.3.7.1 (CREF Instrumentation), and 3.4.5 (RCS Leakage Detection - CAM). Radiation levels were verified to be normal in the affected areas. Isolations signals were reset and Secondary Containment ventilation systems were restored to a normal lineup. Repairs are currently in progress to replace the high voltage power supply to the affected radiation monitors and are expected to complete within the required action time limits of the applicable technical specifications. The licensee is in a 24 hour LCO. The licensee has notified the NRC Resident Inspector.
ENS 4660611 February 2011 09:27:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(v)(D), Loss of Safety Function - Mitigate the Consequences of an Accident
10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(v)(C), Loss of Safety Function - Release of Radioactive Material
Inoperable Containment Isolation DampersOn February 11, 2011 at 0327 (CST), Secondary Containment isolation damper V-D-61 (Reactor Building Outboard Isolation Damper) was discovered iced closed with the actuator broken. The corresponding inboard damper, V-D-62, was found blocked partially open due to icing. Technical Specification Condition 3.6.4.2.B was entered for one Secondary Containment penetration flow path with two isolation valves inoperable. This resulted in a condition which could have prevented the fulfillment of a safety function required to control the release of radioactive material and mitigate the consequences of an accident. The required action to isolate the flow path by use of one closed and de-activated valve was completed at 0354 (CST), within the four hour completion time. Repair activities are in progress. The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector and the State of Minnesota Duty Officer.
ENS 466575 March 2011 16:45:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(2)(xi), Notification to Government Agency or News ReleaseOffsite Notification Related to Fish KillAt 1045 the Monticello Nuclear Generating Plant (MNGP) control room was notified by an Xcel Energy environmental specialist that a fish kill count was conducted on the morning of 3/5/11 following reactor shutdown. In accordance with the MNGP water appropriations permit for fish kill in the Mississippi river, the environmental specialist will be notifying the State of Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. Notifications made to above government agencies meet the reporting criteria established in 10CFR50.72(b)(2)(xi) as an event or situation related to the protection of the environment for which a notification to government agencies has been or will be made. Total fish kill was determined to be approximately 100 fish downstream of the plant's discharge canal. Fish kill was the result of cooldown of water being discharged to the river from the plant's discharge canal. All temperature limits specified in the plant's water appropriation permit were met throughout the shutdown. There was no release of any chemical or radioactive materials to the environment. The licensee has notified the NRC Resident Inspector and will be notifying appropriate state and local authorities.
ENS 467275 April 2011 19:30:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(xiii), Loss of Emergency PreparednessPlanned Loss of Emergency Assessment Capability for Scheduled MaintenaceMonticello Nuclear Generating Station reported a planned loss of emergency assessment capability for maintenance, at 1430 (CDT) on 04/05/11. Unavailable systems and functions include the Safety Parameter Display System (SPDS), communications between the Process Computer System (PCS) and the Man-Machine Integration Design and Analysis System (MIDAS) computer, and data transfer capability via Emergency Response Data System (ERDS) link to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC). Projected outage duration is approximately 4 hours. Control Room and local instrumentation, and annunciators remain available for accident assessment. Telephone lines remain available between site emergency response facilities and offsite agencies for communication of plant status information. During this period, MIDAS remains available to perform dose assessment in the manual input mode. The licensee will notify the NRC Resident Inspector and the State Emergency Response Center.
ENS 4683310 May 2011 14:15:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(xiii), Loss of Emergency PreparednessLoss of Emergency Assessment Capability

Dose assessment cannot be performed onsite. Pursuant to 10CFR50.72 (b)(3)(xiii), Monticello Nuclear Generating Plant is reporting a planned loss of emergency assessment capability scheduled for 0915 hours on May 10, 2011 for system maintenance. Dose assessment in the control room, TSC, and EOF are non-functional. Main meteorological tower data is unavailable. Projected outage duration is approximately 7 hours. Control room and local instrumentation/annunciation remain available for accident assessment. Telephone lines remain available between site emergency response facilities and offsite agencies for communication of plant status information. Dose assessment capabilities will exist at the backup EOF. Backup meteorological data will be available in the control room, TSC, and EOF. The licensee will not be in any Technical Specification action statements as a result of this evolution. The NRC Resident Inspector has been notified.

* * * UPDATE FROM JEFF OLSON TO PETE SNYDER ON 5/10/11 AT 1650 EDT * * * 

The licensee has restored their dose assessment capability. Notified R3DO (Passehl).

ENS 469378 June 2011 13:00:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(v)(D), Loss of Safety Function - Mitigate the Consequences of an Accident
10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(v)(C), Loss of Safety Function - Release of Radioactive Material
Secondary Containment Inoperable Due to Ventilation Alignment IssueSecondary containment was declared inoperable after transferring refuel floor supply fans. Secondary containment D/P (Differential Pressure) lowered to 0.17 inches of water vacuum which does not meet the surveillance requirement to have secondary containment vacuum greater than or equal to 0.25 inches of water vacuum. Refuel floor ventilation was restored back to the previous configuration and secondary containment D/P was restored back to greater than 0.25 inches of water vacuum. Vacuum was less than 0.25 inches of water for approximately 4 minutes. There were no actual radiological releases associated with the event. Actual secondary containment integrity was not challenged. The lowered secondary containment D/P was a result of a ventilation lineup change. The licensee has notified the NRC Resident Inspector and the State of Minnesota.
ENS 4699930 June 2011 10:16:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(v)(A), Loss of Safety Function - Shutdown the Reactor
10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(v)(D), Loss of Safety Function - Mitigate the Consequences of an Accident
Power Range Monitor Channels Out of AlignmentAt 0516 (CDT) on 6/30/11 after control rod movements to support rod pattern adjustment, 3 of 4 APRMs were out of required Technical Specification deviations of +/-2% power in relation to calculated Core Thermal Power. APRM #1 was at -3.6% deviation, APRM #3 was at +2.5% and APRM #4 was at +3.1 %. APRMs 1, 3, and 4 were declared inoperable. With 3 of the 4 APRM channels affected, the functions of the APRM were inoperable and that RPS trip capability had not been maintained. Technical Specification Conditions 3.3.1.1.A and 3.3.1.1.C were entered at 0516. All three (3) APRM gains were adjusted and the Tech Spec Conditions were exited at 0540 (CDT). Thermal Limits were evaluated and no limits were challenged. This event is reportable under 10CFR50.72 (b)(3)(v) as an event that could have prevented the fulfillment of the safety function of a system needed to: 50.72(b)(3)(A) shutdown the reactor and 50.72(b)(3)(D) mitigate the consequences of an accident. The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector.
ENS 471265 August 2011 13:54:0010 CFR 26.719, FFD Reporting requirements24-Hour Fitness-For-Duty ReportA non-licensed contract supervisor had a confirmed positive for alcohol during a random fitness-for-duty test. The employee's access to the plant has been terminated. Contact the Headquarters Operations Officer for additional details. The NRC Resident Inspector has been informed.
ENS 4721229 August 2011 11:00:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(xiii), Loss of Emergency PreparednessTechnical Support Center Planned Maintenance Activity

On 8/29/11, Monticello Nuclear Generating Plant's Technical Support Center (TSC) power supply will be isolated to perform a planned maintenance activity. The maintenance activity requires implementation of compensatory measures to maintain TSC functions during the activity. The compensatory measures include having the Emergency Director report to the Control Room and co-locating the remaining TSC staff at the EOF should an event be declared requiring ERO activation. The ERO has successfully previously demonstrated the ability to implement these compensatory measures. The maintenance activity is scheduled to be completed with the TSC returned to full functionality by the end of the dayshift on 8/29/11. The site Emergency Response Organization has been notified of the maintenance activity and instructed on the planned compensatory measures to be implemented during the activity. The licensee has notified the NRC Resident Inspector.

  • * * UPDATE AT 1735 EDT ON 8/29/11 FROM ANDERSON TO HUFFMAN * * *

The licensee reports that TSC maintenance activities were completed at 1308 CDT and that the TSC was declared fully operational at 1545 CDT on 8/29/11. The licensee has notified the NRC Resident Inspector. R3DO (Kunowski) notified.

ENS 472372 September 2011 21:00:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(ii)(B), Unanalyzed ConditionIntake Structure Fire Suppression System Failed Surveillance TestDuring intake structure fire suppression sprinkler system surveillance testing, Operations identified that a portion of the sprinkler system was not able to pass flow. A 14-day fire protection system impairment was entered and a continuous compensatory fire watch with backup suppression was stationed prior to removing the system from service for testing. Upon failure of the surveillance test, the impairment remained in effect and the continuous fire watch remained stationed pending investigation/repair by Maintenance. On 9/2/2011 at approximately 1600 (CDT), Mechanical Maintenance personnel informed Operations that the sprinkler suppression piping was found to be fouled and not capable of passing flow. The intake sprinkler system is relied upon in part to satisfy an exemption for the station to 10CFR50 Appendix R, Section III.G.2.B concerning separation of components in the intake structure. Based upon the intake sprinkler system being non-functional, this condition is being reported under 10CFR50.72(b)(3)(ii)(B) as an unanalyzed condition affecting plant safety systems. The licensee informed the NRC Resident Inspector.
ENS 4730629 September 2011 22:00:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(v)(A), Loss of Safety Function - Shutdown the Reactor
10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(v)(B), Loss of Safety Function - Remove Residual Heat
10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(v)(D), Loss of Safety Function - Mitigate the Consequences of an Accident
10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(v)(C), Loss of Safety Function - Release of Radioactive Material
Inadequate Surveillance Testing of Emergency Diesel GeneratorsMonticello has discovered that it has not met Technical Specification Surveillance Requirement (SR) 3.8.1.7 relating to the largest single post-accident load reject for the Emergency Diesel Generators (EDG). Although the current test designated post-accident load is successfully load rejected during the surveillance, the test load rejection must be higher to bound all post-accident load scenarios. The capability of an EDG subsystem to recover from a reject of the largest single post-accident load testing has not met the requirements of SR 3.8.1.7. Therefore, both EDGs have been declared inoperable. Both EDGs are considered Functional and Available for use at this time. There were no automatic EDG initiation signals associated with this event. The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector and will notify the State.
ENS 4735118 October 2011 14:39:0010 CFR 26.719, FFD Reporting requirementsRandom Fitness for Duty Test FailureA non-licensed employee had a confirmed positive for alcohol during a random fitness-for-duty test. The employee's access to the plant has been terminated. Contact the Headquarters Operations Officer for additional details.
ENS 4736421 October 2011 17:50:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(2)(xi), Notification to Government Agency or News Release
10 CFR 50.72(b)(2)(iv)(B), RPS System Actuation
10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(iv)(A), System Actuation
Automatic Reactor Scram Due to Lockout of Auxiliary Power Transformer

The station experienced a lockout of the 2R Auxiliary Power Transformer. The resulting transient caused an automatic actuation of the RPS system. All control rods fully inserted. A Group 2 Primary Containment isolation occurred. Both 11 and 12 Emergency Diesel Generators started on a loss of voltage signal. Equipment response was that the 11 ESW (Emergency Service Water) pump (cooling for the #11 Emergency Diesel) failed to develop required pressure. The #13-4160V non-safety related bus failed to restore after the transient (and feed the Division 1 Essential Bus). Additionally, the #15 bus transferred to the 1AR transformer (and is feeding the Essential Bus). The #11 Emergency Diesel Generator is currently tagged out of service. Electrical supply is being provided by offsite power. Reactor heat is being removed through the main steam line to the main condenser and reactor water inventory is being provided by the feedwater system. The SRVs lifted and reseated. The HPCI system was manually place into a pressure control mode. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency is being notified due to the licensee violating the site discharge canal temperature rate of change limit. The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector.

  • * * UPDATE FROM RYAN RICHARDS TO JOHN KNOKE AT 1730 EDT ON 11/01/2011 * * *

Prior to this event the 'B' Control Room Emergency Filtration (CREF) and 'B' Control Room Ventilation (CRV) Systems were inoperable for planned maintenance. On 10-21-11 at 1325 CDT, the #11 EDG ESW Pump was declared inoperable due to low cooling water pump flow, resulting in the #11 EDG being inoperable, which in turn resulted in the 'A' CREF and 'A' CRV being inoperable. Contrary to reporting requirements this condition was not identified and reported pursuant to 10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(v)(D) as required within 8-hours in the previous event notification. This condition resulted in a loss of safety function for both divisions of CREF and CRV. This update amends the 10-21-11 event notification to include this as an 8-hour non-emergency event pursuant to 10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(v)(D). The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector. Notified the R3DO (Nick Valos)

ENS 4745718 November 2011 19:30:0010 CFR 74.11(a)Local Power Range Monitor (Lprm) Stored in Spent Fuel Pool Cannot Be LocatedAt 1330 (CST) on 11/18/11, Nuclear Engineering reported to Operations that during a Special Nuclear Material (SNM) Physical Inventory they were unable to locate an individual LPRM (Local Power Range Monitor) detector that was believed to be loose in the bottom of the Spent Fuel Pool. Efforts remain in progress to locate the material in the pool. The licensee stated that during a previous refueling, a 4-detector LPRM string had been removed from the core and placed in the spent fuel pool. At the time, the string had been cut and a single detector at the bottom of the string had fallen to the bottom of the spent fuel pool under the fuel racks. Today, the licensee attempted to retrieve the LPRM detector for placement in a special storage canister in a controlled location that could be easily inventoried. During the retrieval attempt, the licensee could not locate the LPRM detector. There is no indication at this time that the detector has been inadvertently removed from the spent fuel pool and disposed of. The licensee believes that the detector is still in the pool and just needs to be located. The specific information on the detector was not available at the time of this report but the licensee is conservatively assuming the it contained greater than 1 gram of Uranium-233 and is therefore reportable under 10 CFR 74.11. The licensee has notified the NRC Resident Inspector.
ENS 4746020 November 2011 05:12:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(2)(xi), Notification to Government Agency or News Release
10 CFR 50.72(b)(2)(iv)(B), RPS System Actuation
10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(iv)(A), System Actuation
Automatic Reactor Scram While Performing Turbine Bypass Valve TestingWhile performing a regularly scheduled Turbine Bypass Valve surveillance, prior to Turbine Bypass Valve movement, a 'B' half scram (signal) was received. Operators immediately suspended testing. Approximately 10 seconds later, a full Reactor Protection System actuation occurred. Following the reactor scram, reactor water level lowered below the Group II isolation initiation setpoint of +9 inches, (resulting in containment valve isolations). There were no radioactive releases associated with this event. No other alarms were received prior to the RPS actuation. The cause of the reactor scram is under investigation at this time. Also, due to the reactor scram, discharge canal temperature rate of change exceeded plant requirements. As a result, the State of Minnesota, and appropriate local agencies will be notified. All control rods inserted and the scram is considered uncomplicated. The plant is in a normal shutdown electrical configuration. The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector.
ENS 4746421 November 2011 22:06:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(2)(xi), Notification to Government Agency or News ReleaseOffsite Notification Due to Fish KillAt 1606 Central Standard Time, Xcel Energy Environmental Services made a report to the State of MN regarding 190 fish killed from the discharge canal temperature transient during the reactor scram on 11/20/11. The report was made verbally with a follow-up email message detailing the species of fish killed. This is a notification being made under 50.72(b)(2)(xi) as an event related to the environment for which notification to other government agencies have or will be made. The licensee has notified the NRC Resident Inspector and the State and will notify local authorities of this event.
ENS 4747927 November 2011 22:57:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(v)(D), Loss of Safety Function - Mitigate the Consequences of an AccidentRod Worth Minimizer Control Switch Found Out of Required PositionAfter transitioning to Mode 2 from Mode 4, while performing the Rod Worth Minimizer (RWM) operability test, it was discovered that the RWM control switch was in the BYPASS position. The RWM enforces predetermined control rod withdrawal and insertion sequences. Complying with these predetermined sequences ensures a Control Rod Drop Accident does not exceed analytical limits. With the control switch in the BYPASS position, the RWM was inoperable and would not have enforced the predetermined control rod withdrawal sequence. The RWM control switch was restored to the OPERATE position and the RWM was verified to be operable. This issue is being reported under 50.72(b)(3)(v)(D) as an event or condition that at the time of discovery could have prevented the fulfillment of the safety function of the RWM, which is a system needed to mitigate the consequences of the Control Rod Drop Accident. The licensee will be notifying the NRC Resident Inspector.
ENS 4754321 December 2011 18:00:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(xiii), Loss of Emergency PreparednessPlant Computer Calculation Incorrect for Back-Up Meteorological DataDuring specification review of the computer points for the Monticello Nuclear Generating Plant backup meteorological tower (MET), it was identified by the station that the computer program software for the backup MET had not calculated the correct 15 minute average wind direction in all instances, A review and analysis of the historical data revealed that there were times that this condition existed when the site's primary MET had been out-of-service for maintenance or equipment issues. During those times the backup MET was relied on for determination of wind direction. Analysis determined that during those times the potential existed to incorrectly report affected sectors for Protective Action Recommendations. Currently the station's primary MET has been verified to be in service and functioning properly. The licensee has notified the NRC Resident Inspector.
ENS 4766415 February 2012 14:25:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(2)(xi), Notification to Government Agency or News ReleaseOffsite Notification Due to Inadvertent Manual Siren ActivationAt 0825 CDT on 2/15/2012, the Monticello Nuclear Power Generating Plant (MNGP) received a report from the Sherburne County Sheriff Dispatcher that there had been an inadvertent manual initiation of Emergency Preparedness sirens in the county while performing siren testing. All plant conditions/parameters are normal. A total of 48 emergency sirens were on for approximately one minute before being secured. All sirens are currently functional. Sherburne County and the site NRC Resident Inspector have been notified The licensee also notified the Wright County offices.
ENS 477258 March 2012 15:54:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(2)(xi), Notification to Government Agency or News ReleaseNotification of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency for Release of Amertap BallsAt 0954 on 3/8/12 Xcel Energy notified the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency of an Amertap ball release exceeding 1.5 barrels per agreement. Three barrels of Amertap balls are unaccounted for. Plant operational personnel are inspecting the site water system for unaccounted Amertap balls. A survey of the river performed by personnel only produced 4 of the missing balls. The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector.
ENS 4778228 March 2012 21:48:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(2)(xi), Notification to Government Agency or News ReleaseOffsite Notification of Potential Release of Amertap Balls to MississippiOn 3/28/2012, Xcel Energy Personnel determined that approximately 50% of the Amertap balls recently used were not recovered. A survey of the Mississippi River bank downstream of the plant by site personnel recovered an additional 3 Amertap balls, indicating that the balls were not released to the river. Monticello Nuclear Generating Plant (MNGP) is required to report to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) when greater than 20% (1 .5 barrels or approximately 7,500) of the Amertap balls are not recovered. This is based on an agreement with the MPCA dated September 12, 2008. The MPCA was notified at 1648 CDT on 3/28/12. The NRC Resident Inspector has been notified.
ENS 479098 May 2012 14:00:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(v)(A), Loss of Safety Function - Shutdown the Reactor
10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(v)(B), Loss of Safety Function - Remove Residual Heat
10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(ii)(B), Unanalyzed Condition
10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(v)(C), Loss of Safety Function - Release of Radioactive Material
an Unanalyzed Condition Could Delay Transfer to Emergency Diesel Generators Under Certain Postulated ConditionsAt 0900 (CDT) on May 8, 2012, it was determined that Monticello Nuclear Generating Plant did not meet Technical Specification Limiting Condition for Operation 3.3.8.1 because the requirement of Table 3.3.8.1-1 for the 4.16 KV Essential Bus Degraded Voltage time delay transfer to the Emergency Diesel Generators (EDGs) of 9.2 seconds could not be met under all postulated conditions. The degraded transfer scheme has the ability to transfer to an intermediate offsite source (1AR) which under a degraded voltage condition, coincident with an accident, would delay the transfer to the EDGs an additional 5 seconds. Both EDGs were subsequently declared inoperable. As an interim action 1AR transformer has been removed from service. This eliminates the unanalyzed condition, restores Technical Specification compliance, and restores both EDGs to an operable condition. Additionally this event is being reported under criteria 10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(v)(D) - Accident Mitigation. The NRC Resident Inspector has been notified.
ENS 4794822 May 2012 22:13:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(2)(xi), Notification to Government Agency or News ReleaseOffsite Notification Due to Loss of Amertap BallsOn May 22, 2012 it was determined that more than 20% (3 of 8 barrels) of the Amertap balls used for condenser cleaning on May 18, 2012 were not able to be recovered by normal means. Observers were stationed at the discharge structure during the process and it is not believed that balls were released to the river. The current agreement with the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency dated September 12, 2008, requires XCEL Energy to make a report to the MPCA whenever more than 20% (1.5 barrels or approximately 7,500 balls) of the Amertap balls are not recovered. The MPCA was notified May 22, 2012. Approximately, 15,000 Amertap balls have not been recovered by the normal strainer system and may be in the discharge canal. The licensee is investigating the cause of the event. The NRC Resident Inspector, Wright County Sheriffs Department, and Sherburne County Sheriffs Department have been notified.
ENS 4795022 May 2012 22:32:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(xiii), Loss of Emergency PreparednessFifty-Eight Sirens Were Not Functional in Wright County MinnesotaOn May 22, 2012 at 1732 (CDT) Monticello Nuclear Generating Plant (MNGP) was notified by the Wright County siren vendor of an equipment malfunction with the siren activation system. Due to this issue, they are unable to activate any sirens in Wright County. The vendor discovered the issue during the completion of siren work in the county today. The vendor requested the dispatcher to issue a cancel test. The cancel test did not work. The issue is affecting both the primary and back up activation systems. The vendor will be following up until the issue is resolved. 58 sirens are impacted. The vendor anticipates investigation and repairs to be completed this evening. A compensatory measure, route alerting, is in place. The NRC Resident Inspector has been notified. MNGP was notified by the vendor at 2120 (CDT) on 5/22/2012 that the issue had been resolved and the sirens are now functional. The NRC Resident Inspector has been notified.
ENS 480725 July 2012 17:58:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(ii)(B), Unanalyzed ConditionUnanalyzed Condition Due to Blocking Both Reactor Building Railroad Bay Doors

At 1258 CDT on 07/05/2012, Operations was notified that both panels of Door 45 (south doors for the reactor building railroad bay airlock) were blocked by a man lift. Blocking both doors represents an unanalyzed condition as a flow path through the door is assumed for pressure relief during postulated HELB events. The man lift was immediately removed correcting the situation and all work related to Door 45 was stopped. Door 45 was blocked for approximately 20 minutes. The NRC Resident Inspector has been notified.

  • * * RETRACTION FROM BART BLAKESLEY TO DONALD NORWOOD AT 1605 EDT ON 8/31/2012 * * *

The purpose of this notification is to retract the previous Event Notification Report (#48072) made by the Monticello Nuclear Generating Plant on 7/5/2012. The initial report indicated that blocking both panels of the railroad bay doors by a man lift represented an unanalyzed condition, as a flow path through the door is assumed for pressure relief during postulated HELB events, and was reported in accordance with 10CFR50.72(b)(3)(ii)(B), Unanalyzed Condition. Since the initial report, Engineering has completed an evaluation that demonstrates equipment supporting safe shutdown would have been capable of performing their specified design function during postulated HELB events. Based on this analysis, the condition initially reported in EN #48072 did not result in an unanalyzed condition that significantly degraded plant safety and is therefore retracted. The NRC Resident Inspector has been informed of this retraction. Notified R3DO (Cameron).

ENS 4810916 July 2012 19:03:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(xiii), Loss of Emergency PreparednessLoss of Ac Power to Emergency Operations FacilityAt approximately 1403 (CDT) on 7/16/12, a loss of AC power (Linn Street substation) occurred affecting emergency response capability of the primary Emergency Operations Facility (EOF). The Technical Support Center (TSC) remained functional throughout the event. The Backup EOF located in Minneapolis, MN was inspected and verified to be functional. In the event of an emergency declaration requiring an EOF, the Emergency Response Organization (ERO) would have been directed to report to the Backup EOF. At approximately 1540 (CDT), the Linn Street substation power was restored. The primary EOF was inspected and declared functional at 1725 (CDT). The NRC Resident Inspectors were notified of this event.
ENS 4819015 August 2012 01:45:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(v)(D), Loss of Safety Function - Mitigate the Consequences of an Accident
10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(v)(C), Loss of Safety Function - Release of Radioactive Material
Safety System Overpressure Protection Failure Due to Closed Valves

At 2045 (CDT) on 8/14/12, MNGP (Monticello Nuclear Generating Plant) Operations determined that valves RHR-82 and RHR-84 had been inappropriately closed as part of an isolation clearance order for work on shutdown cooling suction piping. These valves are required to be open to provide overpressure protection for RHR piping passing through primary containment penetration X-12. Upon discovery of the condition, Primary Containment was declared Inoperable and the Required Actions of Tech Spec 3.6.1.1 were entered. Following discovery, the isolation was restored and the valves opened. At 0001 (CDT) on 8/15/12, Primary Containment was declared Operable. This issue is being reported in accordance with 10CFR50.72(b)(3)(v)(C) and 10CFR50.72(b)(3)(v)(D) as a condition that at the time of discovery could have prevented the fulfillment of the safety functions of a system needed to control the release of radioactive material or to mitigate the consequences of an accident. The MNGP Senior NRC Resident Inspector has been notified of this issue. The licensee will contact the Minnesota State Duty Officer.

  • * * RETRACTION FROM RANDY SAND TO CHARLES TEAL ON 08/23/12 AT 1545 EDT * * *

This notification is a retraction of ENS 48190 based on further engineering evaluation. Monticello had previously evaluated penetration X-12 for thermally induced over pressurization. The evaluation qualified the piping components in the penetration for a maximum pressure of 3,306 psig using ASME Section III Appendix F operability criteria. The peak pressure calculated for the penetration was 2,743 psig based on Reactor pressure of 1000 psig with Reactor in Mode 1, and at worse case LOCA conditions for the Drywell. These assumptions and parameters envelop those that were present when valves RHR-82 and RHR-84 were closed on August 14, 2012. Therefore, this event would not have prevented the fulfillment of the safety function reported. The NRC Resident Inspector has been notified. Notified R3DO (Duncan).

ENS 4834125 September 2012 15:44:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(2)(iv)(B), RPS System Actuation
10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(iv)(A), System Actuation
Automatic Reactor Scram During Maintenance on 4160V Bus 12 AmmeterDuring maintenance on 4160V Bus 12 ammeter, a Bus 12 lockout occurred. The station power was from 1R Reserve transformer for work on the 2R Auxiliary transformer. Net effect was Bus 12 locked out, removing power from 12 Reactor Feed Pump and 12 Reactor Recirculation pump. Reactor level lowered to +23 inches then began to rise. With both Main Feed Reg Valves in AUTO, the level transient reached +48 inches, the Reactor Water Level Hi Hi setpoint. The Main Turbine and 11 Reactor Feed Pump tripped as designed, and a Reactor SCRAM occurred. Reactor water level began to drop, and C.4.A Abnormal Procedure for SCRAM was used to restart 11 Reactor Feed Pump and recover water level. Minimum water level reached was -26 inches. Reactor Low Level SCRAM signal and Group 2 Primary Containment isolation occurred at +9 inches as designed, No Safety Relief valves lifted during this transient. High Pressure Coolant Injection (HPCI) and Reactor Core Isolation Cooling (RCIC) did not receive an initiation signal due to not reaching their setpoints. There were no Emergency Core Cooling Systems initiation setpoints reached. Prior to the event, both divisions of Standby Liquid Control were inoperable as part of planned maintenance. All control rods fully inserted. Decay heat is being removed through the turbine bypass to the main condenser. The plant is in a normal shutdown electrical lineup and stable in Mode 3. The licensee has notified the NRC Resident Inspector and will notify the State and local governments.
ENS 4834325 September 2012 20:00:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(2)(xi), Notification to Government Agency or News ReleaseOffsite Notification Due to Hydraulic LeakOn September 25, 2012 at 1055 CDT, a road grader developed a hydraulic leak on a steering hose. This resulted in a light mist of approximately 20 gallons of oil being sprayed for a quarter mile. Three hundred feet of that was on gravel and the rest on blacktop. There is no actual or potential impact to the environment. There is no impact to plant operation. At 1500 CDT, (the licensee was) notified by Xcel Energy Environmental Services that the State has been notified. The licensee has notified the NRC Resident Inspector.
ENS 4834526 September 2012 13:00:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(xiii), Loss of Emergency PreparednessTechnical Support Center (Tsc) Planned Maintenance Activity

On 9/26/12, the Monticello Nuclear Generating Plant's TSC power supply will be isolated to perform a planned maintenance activity. The maintenance activity requires implementation of compensatory measures to maintain TSC functions during the planned activity. Compensatory measures include having the Emergency Director report to Control Room and relocating the remaining TSC staff at the EOF should an event be declared requiring Emergency Response Organization (ERO) activation. Maintenance activity is scheduled to be complete with the TSC fully functional by end of dayshift on 9/26/12. Site ERO has been notified of maintenance activity and instructed on planned compensatory measures to be implemented during activity if required. This event is considered reportable per 10CFR50.72(b)(3)(xiii). The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector. The licensee will notify the Minnesota State Duty Officer, and the Sherriff Departments for both Wright and Sherburne Counties.

  • * * UPDATE ON 9/26/12 AT 1734 EDT FROM TOM PROELL TO DONG PARK * * *

At approximately 1520 Central time, a disturbance occurred in the 12.5kV system during restoration activities for the TSC power supply. This would have caused a Major Loss of Emergency Assessment Capability and thus is reportable under 10CFR50.72(b)(3)(xiii). The licensee is investigating the disturbance. The EOF and all other emergency assessment capabilities were verified functional. The licensee notified NRC Resident Inspector. The disturbance to the 12.5kV system did not affect plant operations. Notified R3DO (Lipa).

ENS 483784 October 2012 21:00:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(xiii), Loss of Emergency PreparednessPrimary and Backup Meteorological Towers Out of ServiceAt 1600 CDT on 10/4/2012, it was determined that the plant backup meteorological tower was not reliable as a source of data and was declared non-functional. At the time of this determination, the primary meteorological tower was out of service for maintenance and was also non-functional. Based on both the primary and backup meteorological towers being non-functional, this is considered a loss of emergency assessment capability. The ability to assess certain Emergency Action Levels (EALs) or perform dose assessment calculations could potentially be hampered by the unavailability of the meteorological monitoring instrumentation. The alternate method per procedure is to contact the National Weather Service for information. The station implemented the alternative method for information gathering. The primary met tower was returned to service at 2011 CDT on 10/4/2012. The licensee has notified the NRC Resident Inspector.
ENS 4850312 November 2012 21:51:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(iv)(A), System ActuationReactor Building Isolation with Standby Gas Treatment System Actuation During Radioactive Material MoveAt 1551 EST on 11/12/12, the 'A' Refuel Floor Process Radiation Monitor reached 62 mR/hr during movement of the old steam dryer in the plant reactor building. This resulted in the isolation of the drywell containment air monitor and the oxygen analyzer primary containment isolation valves. The signal also resulted in a reactor building isolation (Secondary Containment), start of 'A' Standby Gas Treatment, and transfer of the control room ventilation to the High Radiation Mode. All automatic isolation valves have been reset. Reactor building and control room ventilation have been reset. Standby gas treatment has been secured. There were no challenges to the health and safety of the general public. The NRC Resident Inspector has been notified.
ENS 4861620 December 2012 22:00:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(ii)(B), Unanalyzed ConditionUnanalyzed Condition Due to an Identified Degraded Fire Barrier

During a walkdown on December 20, 2012 at 1600 CST, two degraded Appendix R fire barriers (walls) were identified. These barriers separate the Torus Room (Fire Area IV)/ 'A' RHR Room (Fire Area I) and the Torus Room (Fire Area IV)/ 'B' RHR Room (Fire Area II). The walls separate Appendix R fire safe shutdown divisional equipment. A fire watch was established as a compensatory measure immediately following identification of the issue on December 20, 2012. The barrier affecting the 'B' RHR Room has been repaired on both sides. The barrier affecting the 'A' RHR Room has been repaired on the Torus Room side. The discovery of this non-compliance is being reported as an unanalyzed condition as defined by 10CFR50.72(b)(3)(ii)(B). The fire watch remains in place until verification of the completed repair is performed. The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector.

  • * * RETRACTION AT 1746 EST ON 2/07/13 FROM JACK EARSLEY TO HUFFMAN * * *

An eight hour report per 10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(ii)(B) was conservatively reported on December 21, 2012 for degraded fire barriers between the Torus Room (Fire Area IV) and 'A' RHR Room (Fire Area I), and the Torus Room (Fire Area IV) and 'B' RHR Room (Fire Area II). Subsequent engineering analysis determined that the degraded fire barriers maintained the required degree of separation for redundant safe shutdown trains and plant safety was not significantly degraded. The 10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(ii)(B) report is retracted. The licensee will notify the NRC Resident Inspector. Notified R3DO (Kunowski).

ENS 4861821 December 2012 13:30:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(xiii), Loss of Emergency PreparednessLoss of Emergency Response Data System (Erds)At approximately 0730 CST, Xcel Energy Monticello Nuclear Generating Plant was informed of a loss of internet and data services due to equipment problems with the Wide Area Network (WAN). The loss of data services resulted in the loss of ERDS communication capabilities with the NRC. Compensatory actions were established to communicate plant parameters verbally via the Emergency Notification System, which was verified functional at 0836 CST. The WAN and ERDS were restored at 0921 CST and ERDS was verified functional at 0948 CST. This issue is being reported as a loss of communications capability non-emergency event notification under 10CFR50.72(b)(3)(xiii) as defined in NUREG 1022, Rev. 2. The licensee has notified the NRC Resident Inspector.
ENS 4868118 January 2013 18:40:0010 CFR 50.72(b)(2)(xi), Notification to Government Agency or News ReleasePans System False Activation of 58 SirensThere was a false activation signal applied for 3 seconds to site emergency sirens. The licensee notified the State of Minnesota and local government agencies. The licensee will notify the NRC Resident Inspector.