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 Entered dateSiteRegionReactor typeEvent description
ENS 4229027 January 2006 14:15:00SusquehannaNRC Region 1GE-4

`AT 0800 ON 01/27/2006 the Unit 2 ERDS modem failed its testing criteria. The modem will not transmit any of the Unit 2 ERDS data. At 1234, the determination was made that repairs will exceed 8 hours. The data points transmitted by ERDS are operable. Only the transmission of the Unit 2 data to the NRC is inoperable. Unit 1 ERDS remains operable. A review of the ability of the Emergency organization to function without ERDS was performed. The NEP (Nuclear Emergency Planning) Duty Planner has established another data line. In response to a Unit 2 event, the affected NERO (Nuclear Emergency Response Organization) positions will verbally transmit the Unit 2 data to the NRC. All affected NERO positions have been notified. Since the Unit 2 ERDS computer system will be unavailable for greater than 8 hours, this is considered a Loss of Offsite Communications Capability and reportable under 10 CFR 50/72(b)(3)(xiii). The NRC Resident Inspector was notified of this event by the licensee

  • * * UPDATE RECEIVED BY JOE O'HARA FROM RON FRY AT 1316 ON 2/6/06 * * *

This is a followup to EN# 42290, which documented a loss of emergency response capability. The Susquehanna computer group replaced the Unit 2 ERDS modem power supply with an identical component then completed the quarterly functional check as of 10:37 on 02/06/2006. As of 10:37 on 02/06/2006, the Unit 2 ERDS modem is operable and will transmit Unit 2 data to the NRC. All affected NERO positions have been notified. The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector. R1DO(Gray) has been notified.

ENS 4233413 February 2006 17:18:00SusquehannaNRC Region 1GE-4

At 09:33 on February 13, 2006, a Susquehanna field operator inadvertently tripped an essential instrument AC panel breaker, while applying an energy control tag. He immediately communicated this condition to the control room, and then closed the breaker to restore power. During the subsequent investigation to determine applicable technical specifications, control room operators discovered that the tripped breaker resulted in a momentary loss of both battery room exhaust subsystems. To comply with the required actions for a loss of both battery room exhaust subsystems, Susquehanna declared all Unit 1 and Unit 2 DC subsystems inoperable, which resulted in LCO 3.0.3. Although the entry into LCO 3.0.3 is not reportable, Susquehanna did discover an unanalyzed condition on both units that significantly degrades plant safety, which is reportable in accordance with 10CFR50.72(b)(3)(ii). The loss of a single power supply could result in the loss of ventilation and cooling for all DC subsystems on both units, leading to degradation of essential DC power sources. This condition does not meet single failure criteria for safety-related equipment. The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector.

  • * * UPDATE 1342 EST ON 2/21/06 FROM GORDY ROBINSON TO S. SANDIN * * *

The licensee is retracting this report based on the following: At 0933 hours on February 13, 2006, a Susquehanna field operator inadvertently tripped an essential instrument AC panel breaker while applying an energy control tag. The field operator immediately communicated this condition to the control room and was directed to close the breaker to restore power. The breaker trip resulted in a momentary loss of exhaust flow from the Class 1E 125 VDC and 250 VDC battery rooms. In response, operators declared all Unit 1 and Unit 2 batteries inoperable. An ENS notification (# 42334) was initiated in accordance with 10CFR50.72(b)(3)(ii)(B), Unanalyzed Condition that Significantly Affects Plant Safety, because the loss of a single power supply rendered the status of all station essential DC power sources (Batteries) indeterminate and, thus, inoperable. It was believed that this condition did not meet single failure criteria for safety-related equipment. Subsequent analysis of this event has revealed that the battery room exhaust system acted per design. The system's design is consistent with intended logic that ensures single failure proof isolation of the system, in compliance with the single failure criterion, in response to a toxic gas release. The single failure proof design of the battery exhaust system ensures isolation, not continued operation, in the presence of a single failure. The analysis further concluded that a short term loss of battery room exhaust does not compromise a battery's ability to function. The insights obtained through this analysis provide the basis for retraction of the ENS report of February 13, 2006. The licensee informed the NRC Resident Inspector. Notified R1DO(Henderson).

ENS 4234216 February 2006 03:38:00SusquehannaNRC Region 1GE-4This is a voluntary notification. 10CFR50.72 is not applicable. At 0235 on February 16, 2006, an operator informed the Control Room that a Health Physics Technician had fallen and received a cut to the head. The site first aid team and Field Unit Supervisor were dispatched and they determined the individual needed to be transported to an off site medical facility. An ambulance arrived on site at 0300 and transported the individual to a local hospital. However, the ambulance never entered the protected area. The individual was not contaminated as determined by Health Physics. A courtesy call was made to the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency due to an emergency vehicle entering the site. The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector.
ENS 423791 March 2006 22:22:00SusquehannaNRC Region 1GE-4

At 21:27 on March 1, 2006, a Susquehanna security officer evacuated the security control center and notified the control room of a fire alarm and actuation of the Halon fire suppression system. The actuation of this system resulted in a potential atmosphere immediately dangerous to life and health (IDLH) of personnel in a plant vital area. The fire brigade responded to the event, donning respirators to enter the building, but saw no visible smoke or flames. As a result of an IDLH atmosphere in a plant vital area, Susquehanna entered the emergency plan at the Alert level. The NRC Resident Inspector was informed and responded to the site. The licensee notified state, local and other government agencies. The licensee plans on issuing a press release. Notified DHS (Hill), FEMA (Liggett), DOE (Bailey), EPA (National Response Center, Baumgartner), HHS (Riggs), and USDA (D. Timmons).

  • * * UPDATE AT 0530 EST ON 3/2/06 FROM RICH KLINEFELTER TO S. SANDIN * * *

The licensee terminated the Alert 0433 EST based on the following: Habitability was restored to the security control center by 1. Stopping the Halon discharge 2. Ventilating the affected area 3. Restoring access 4. Isolating Halon sources in the adjacent area to prevent a recurrence and, 5. Posting Fire Watches. The licensee informed State/local agencies and the on-site NRC Resident Inspector. Notified Region I (Perry), NRR EO (Calvo), IRD (Leach), DHS (Hill), FEMA (Liggett), DOE (Pauley), EPA (National Response Center, McCrossen), HHS (H. Peagler), and USDA (D. Timmons).

ENS 423854 March 2006 05:34:00SusquehannaNRC Region 1GE-4On 03/03/06, Susquehanna Unit 1 operators began the process of shutting down the unit for the 14th Refueling and Inspection Outage. It was expected that during this evolution, 'slow to settle' control rods would be encountered, and rather than delay the continuance of the shutdown to perform operability testing, it was determined that these control rods would conservatively be declared inoperable. Based on previous testing data and trending analysis of operability testing performed during the cycle, PPL believes that the subject control rods would have passed operability tests. Accordingly, at 0517 EDT, Technical Specification 3.1.3.f was entered which requires the unit to be taken to Mode 3 in 12 hours when nine or more control rods are inoperable. The inoperable control rods are fully inserted and disarmed, shutdown margin requirements are met, and the control rod system was always fully capable of performing its safety function. At the time when the ninth control rod was declared inoperable, Unit One was operating at 0% Power. Unit Two is continuing operation at 100% power. PPL is reporting this event as a Technical Specification Required Shutdown per 10CFR 50.72(b)(2)(i). The NRC Resident Inspector was notified by the licensee.
ENS 4240712 March 2006 09:12:00SusquehannaNRC Region 1GE-4

While performing local leak rate testing (LLRT) during a planned refueling outage, Susquehanna discovered a Type C penetration on Unit 1 with a leak rate of 12,700 sccm. The limit for this penetration, which can bypass secondary containment, is 4,247 sccm or 9 scfh. Even with this leak rate, the combined leak rate for all penetrations and valves subject to Type B and C tests meets the acceptance criteria of 10CFR50 Appendix J, which is 190,744.7 sccm. This condition seriously degrades the condition of the nuclear power plant, including its principal safety barriers, and is reportable in accordance with 10CFR50.72(b)(3)(ii). The licensee informed the NRC Resident Inspector.

  • * * UPDATE AT 1015 EDT ON 4/18/06 FROM JIM HUFFORD TO S. SANDIN * * *

THE FOLLOWING IS A RETRACTION OF ENS NOTIFICATION #42407 On March 12, 2006, Susquehanna Steam Electric Station reported that a Type C penetration valve on Unit 1 experienced a leak rate of 12,700 sccm during testing. This leakage rate exceeded the TS allowed limit of 4,247 sccm (9 scfh) for Secondary Containment Bypass Leakage (SCBL) valves. Although a non-intrusive investigation determined that a significant amount of the leakage was past a non-Technical Specification test boundary valve, workers were unable to immediately quantify the exact amount of leakage attributable to this valve. Susquehanna conservatively assigned all leakage experienced during the test to the primary containment isolation valve being tested and reported the situation as a condition that seriously degraded the nuclear power plant per 10CFR50.72(b)(3)(ii). Subsequently, Susquehanna successfully re-worked the test boundary valve that was adversely affecting the leak rate test results. With no other changes in test conditions beyond this improvement in the test boundary, the test was re-performed with 464 sccm leakage observed. Total calculated leakage for SCBL amounted to 1306 sccm, well within Tech Spec limits. These results indicate that the excessive leakage was leakage past the test boundary valve and not the tested PCIV. As such, the SCBL limit was never exceeded and the ENS notification (#42407) is, therefore, being retracted. The licensee informed the NRC Resident Inspector. Notified R1DO (Dan Holody).

ENS 4242315 March 2006 09:41:00SusquehannaNRC Region 1GE-4

Unit 1 is currently in Mode 5 for the planned 14th Refuel and Inspection Outage. At 05:57 on March 15, 2006 the Unit 1 Safety Parameter Display System (SPDS) was deenergized during planned refuel outage activities. It has been determined that it will not be restored within the required eight hours. Currently, restoration is scheduled for March 17, 2006 at 00:01. All required instrumentation is available in the control room. ERDS will remain operable during the work window but several points will not be available. For example 23 of 58 ERDS points will be unavailable while SPDS is out of service. However, the ERDS system will still be operable and transmit the remaining points. Loss of Emergency Assessment Capability - A review of the ability of the Emergency organization to function without SPDS was performed. Alternate sources for many of the points in SPDS were identified and are contained on an Emergency Plan format in PICSY (plant integrated computer system). Those points not available from PICSY can be obtained from the control room. With these compensatory actions and the communications in place between the facilities, there will not be a major loss of emergency assessment capability. Since the Unit 1 SPDS computer system will be unavailable for greater than 8 hours, this is considered reportable under 10CFR50.72(b)(3)(xiii). The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector.

  • * * UPDATE FROM J. HUFFORD TO J. KNOKE AT 10:41 EST ON 03/18/06 * * *

Licensee has restored the Unit 1 Safety Parameter Display System (SPDS), which was deenergized during planned refuel outage activities for scheduled maintenance. The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector. Notified R1DO (Krohn).

ENS 4248911 April 2006 09:35:00SusquehannaNRC Region 1GE-4On 03/11/06 at approximately 0432 hours, with Susquehanna Unit 1 in the Refueling Mode (0% power), the Unit experienced a partial isolation of Primary Containment isolation valves. The actuation occurred when a blown fuse disrupted power to a containment isolation logic relay. The inboard isolation valve to the 'B' Drywell Floor Drain Sump and the Containment Instrument Gas purge supply valve to the TIP indexer both closed. The 'A' Standby Gas Treatment system fan and the 'A' Reactor Building Recirculation fan successfully auto started during the event. This event constitutes an invalid system actuation and is reportable under 10CFR 50.73(a)(2)(iv)(A). The condition meets the criteria of 10CFR 50.73(a)(2)(iv)(B)(2) because a general containment isolation signal affected containment isolation valves in more than one system. This notification is being provided via a 60-day optional phone call as permitted under 10CFR 50.73(a)(1) in lieu of a written LER. As stated above, both valves affected by the invalid signal fulfilled their isolation function by successfully closing. At the time of the event, no other Primary Containment isolation valve was being maintained in a manner that required re-positioning. There were no challenges to the Reactor as a result of this event. The plant responded as expected. Following replacement of the subject fuse, the isolation logic was successfully reset and affected equipment was restored to the desired status. The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector.
ENS 4264215 June 2006 05:05:00SusquehannaNRC Region 1GE-4At approximately 0300 hours on 15 June, the Susquehanna Unit One reactor automatically scrammed due to an apparent neutron monitoring trip while transferring Reactor Protection System power supplies. All rods (fully) inserted, and both reactor recirculation pumps tripped. Reactor water level lowered to -38" causing level 3 (+13") and level 2 (-38")isolations, and was restored to normal level (+35") by RCIC and subsequently the feedwater system. All isolations at this level occurred as expected. No steam relief valves opened. Pressure was controlled via turbine bypass valve operation. All safety systems operated as expected. A reactor recirculation pump was restarted to re-establish forced core circulation. The reactor is currently stable in condition 3. An investigation into the cause of the shutdown is underway. Unit Two continued power operation. The NRC resident inspectors were notified. A press release will occur. After the scram, HPCI automatically started but was manually shut down with RCIC maintaining vessel level. Decay heat removal is being maintained with main feedwater and the turbine steam dumps. The electrical grid is stable. No major LCOs were in affect at the time of the event.
ENS 4281731 August 2006 14:26:00SusquehannaNRC Region 1GE-4At 1111, on August 31, 2006, during performance of SO-152-006 HPCI was declared inoperable when the HPCI Turbine Stop Valve FV-15612 had dual position indication. Local observation of the stop valve by plant operators and a report from the system engineer verified the valve was closed, and the problem appears to be a limit switch problem. With the lower limit switch not responding correctly the system engineer informed the control room the HPCI Ramp Generator is not reset, which will result in an over speed condition of the HPCI turbine if an actuation signal is received. To prevent possible damage to the HPCI turbine, control room personnel overrode HPCI injection in accordance with plant operating procedures. Plans are being developed to investigate the problem, and adjust the limit switch if required. This is being reported as an event or condition that could have prevented fulfillment of a safety function required to mitigate the consequences of an accident in accordance with 10CFR50.72(b)(3)(v)(D). The licensee has entered the provisions of TS 3.5.1 for this condition. No other accident mitigation systems are currently inoperable. The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector.
ENS 428241 September 2006 12:01:00SusquehannaNRC Region 1GE-4At 1115 EDT on 9/01/2006, Susquehanna LLC personnel became aware that a shipment received from another site exceeded the 10CFR71.47(b)(2) limit of 200 mr/hr contact dose rate. Contact dose rates on the bottom of the shipment are 820 mr/hr, and therefore reportable per the requirements of 10CFR20.1906(d)(2). There is no identified surface contamination on the shipment, and the shipment only exceeded the dose rate limit on the bottom once it was lifted off the transport trailer. Doses under the trailer prior to lifting the shipment did not exceed the limit The transport company and the originating site have been notified. The transport vehicle left the Vermont Yankee facility on 8/31/06 and was received by SSES on 9/1/06 at 0805." . . . The driver has been contacted by the transport company. The vehicle made two stops during transport. The first was at the first rest stop traveling west on the Massachusetts Turnpike. The second was at the first rest stop on I-87 south after exiting I-90. No one to the knowledge of the driver came in contact with the shipment. The driver arrived at Susquehanna on 8/31/06 at 2045, and slept in the truck. The driver was wearing dosimetry (TLD). The licensee will notify State of Pennsylvania Emergency Management and has notified the NRC Resident Inspector.
ENS 428296 September 2006 12:17:00SusquehannaNRC Region 1GE-4A non- licensed employee 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 licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector.
ENS 4301125 November 2006 22:48:00SusquehannaNRC Region 1GE-4At 2042 on 11/25/06, Susquehanna Unit 1 reactor automatically scrammed due to an apparent generator load reject. All rods fully inserted, and both reactor recirculation pumps tripped. Reactor water level lowered to approximately +13" inches causing level 3 (+13") isolations, and was restored to normal level (+35") by the feedwater system. All isolations at this level occurred as expected. Five steam safety relief valves opened then reclosed. Pressure was subsequently controlled via turbine bypass valve operation. All safety systems operated as expected. The 'A' reactor recirculation pump was restarted to re-establish forced core recirculation. Reactor water cleanup (RWCU) system has been restarted and placed in service. The reactor is currently stable in Mode 3. An investigation is underway. Unit Two continued power operation. The NRC resident inspector was notified. A press release will occur. Decay heat is being removed by normal feedwater to the reactor vessel and steaming through the steam bypass valves to the condenser. The licensee intends to notify the State of Pennsylvania EOC.
ENS 4305518 December 2006 13:55:00SusquehannaNRC Region 1GE-4A press release issued for an inadvertent actuation of the emergency sirens. This item is reportable under 50.72(b)(2)(xi) as offsite notification as an event of public interest. The licensee was performing scheduled silent testing of the off-site emergency sirens. During the test a signal for the sirens to sound was sent in error, and the sirens sounded. There was no emergency. Licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector.
ENS 4306021 December 2006 14:46:00SusquehannaNRC Region 1GE-4A Press Release will be issued for an inadvertent actuation of the Emergency Sirens during testing. This item is reportable under 10CFR50.72(b)(2)(xi) as an offsite notification of an event of public interest. Following maintenance on a single siren, Columbia County emergency management personnel were requested to test it. The County inadvertently activated all 112 sirens within 10 miles of the plant. The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector and the State.
ENS 432259 March 2007 14:32:00SusquehannaNRC Region 1GE-4Appendix J Local Leak Rate Testing has determined that Tech Spec Acceptance Criteria for Secondary Containment Bypass Leakage has been exceeded. During the performance of SE-259-044 the combined SCBL limit of 9scfh was exceeded. Test results were within Administrative and Acceptance Criteria for the 10CFR50 Appendix J limits of 0.6La. The leakage limit is 9scfh. The identified degraded condition is reportable as a condition of the nuclear power plant, including its principle safety barriers being seriously degraded per 10CFR50.72(b)(3)(ii). The NRC Resident Inspector was notified of this event by the licensee.
ENS 4322810 March 2007 00:14:00SusquehannaNRC Region 1GE-4

At 0030 hours, on 03/10/2007, the Unit 2 SPDS and ERDS system will be removed from service for planned maintenance outage on the power supply. The duration of work is expected to be approximately 12 hours. (Scheduled for completion at 1230 hours on 03/10/2007). During this time, control room hardwire indications will be available. Since the Unit 2 SPDS computer system will be unavailable for greater than 8 hours, this is considered a Loss of Emergency Assessment Capability and reportable under 10CFR50.72(b)(3)(xiii). The licensee has redundant indication in the control room and will notify the Operations Center when the planned maintenance work is complete. The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector.

  • * * UPDATE ON 03/10/07 AT 2019 EST FROM RICH KLINEFELTER TO MACKINNON * * *

This is a followup courtesy notification to EN # 43228. The Unit 2 SPDS and ERDS systems, as noted (above), have been restored to normal as of 19:50 on 03/10/2007. NRC Resident Inspector was notified of this update by the licensee. NRC R1DO (Neil Perry) notified.

ENS 4323914 March 2007 22:06:00SusquehannaNRC Region 1GE-4

At 2300 hours, on 03/14/2007, the Unit 2 SPDS and ERDS system will be removed from service to support restoration activities from a planned maintenance outage on the power supply. The duration of work is expected to be approximately 20 hours. (Scheduled for completion at 1900 hours on 03/15/2007). During this time, Control Room indications and alternate methods will be available. Since the Unit 2 SPDS computer system will be unavailable for greater than 8 hours, this is considered a Loss of Emergency Assessment Capability and reportable under 10CFR50.72(b)(3)(xiii). The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector.

  • * * UPDATE FROM HUFFORD TO HUFFMAN AT 2336 EDT ON 3/15/07 * * *

The SPDS and ERDS systems were returned to service at approximately 2230 EDT on 3/15/07. The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector. The R1DO (Hott) has been notified.

ENS 435558 August 2007 13:06:00SusquehannaNRC Region 1GE-4This 60-day notification is being made in accordance with 10 CFR 50.73(a)(1), which states that in case of an invalid actuation reported under 10 CFR 50.73(a)(2)(iv), other than the actuation of the Reactor Protection System when the reactor is critical, the licensee may provide a telephone notification to the NRC within 60 days after discovery of the event instead of submitting a written LER. On 6/9/07 at approximately 0511 hours, the 'C' Emergency Diesel Generator (EDG) and associated 'C' Emergency Service Water pump unexpectedly started while performing procedure TP-024-147, Diesel Generator 'C' Restoration after being out of service for scheduled overhaul and corrective maintenance activities. The EDG inadvertently started in response to an invalid emergency start signal that occurred when the incorrect states ink (SL-8) was opened in panel 0C521C. The cause of this event was due to a human performance error. The EDG was subsequently shutdown following the inadvertent start. Post- maintenance testing of the 'C' EDG was successfully completed. The consequences of this event are limited to the unplanned start of the 'C' EDG. The EDG started and functioned in accordance with its design. Since no actual plant condition existed which required the EDG to start, and since the start occurred inadvertently as a result of human error, this event has been classified as an invalid actuation. The NRC Resident Inspector has been notified.
ENS 4356313 August 2007 19:49:00SusquehannaNRC Region 1GE-4

On August 13, 2007 at 14:20 (EDT), the Susquehanna Control Room was notified that during review of calculations for the Secondary Containment Radiation Monitor Setpoints errors were identified in Tech Spec Allowable Values and TRM Trip Setpoints that rendered them non-conservative. The affected instruments are Refuel Floor Wall, Refuel Floor High, and Railroad Access radiation monitors. The condition affects both Susquehanna Units. The radiation monitors are required to be operable for conditions noted in footnotes (a), (b), and (c) in Tech Spec tables 3.3.6.2-1 and 3.3.7.1-1 (i.e. operations with a potential for draining the reactor vessel, during CORE ALTERATIONS and during movement of irradiated fuel assemblies in the secondary containment, and movement of irradiated fuel assemblies within or above the Railroad Access Shaft). The function of these instruments is to initiate systems that limit fission product release during and following certain postulated accidents and to minimize the consequences of radioactive material in the control room environment. The radiation monitoring instruments were declared inoperable. All movement of irradiate fuel assemblies was halted (dry fuel storage activities were in progress at the time of notification). Based on this action, these monitors are no longer within the specified Applicability, and are therefore not currently required to be operable. The event has been determined to be reportable within 8 hours under 10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(v)(C) and 10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(v)(D). The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector.

  • * * UPDATE FROM G. ROBINSON TO J. KNOKE AT 1222 EDT ON 10/03/07 * * *

On August 13, 2007 PPL Susquehanna reported that during a review of calculations for the Secondary Containment Radiation Monitor Setpoints, errors were identified in Tech Spec Allowable Values and TRM Trip Setpoints that rendered them non-conservative. The affected monitors were declared inoperable and the required LCO & TRO Actions entered. A subsequent engineering review determined that the values used to establish the Tech Spec Allowable Values and TRM Trip Setpoints were based on a Realistic Source Term, not a Design Basis Source Term. These values were sufficiently conservative to compensate for the errors in the calculations and the dose release limits from a Design Basis Accident would not have been challenged. It was concluded that the existing Tech Spec values and setpoints remained valid and the monitors were operable in their original condition. Based on this conclusion Event Notification EN# 43563 is being retracted. The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector. R1DO ( Powell) was notified.

ENS 4358923 August 2007 15:54:00SusquehannaNRC Region 1GE-4On August 23, 2007, at 1300 EDT, the Susquehanna Control Room was notified of a diesel fuel oil spill from a ruptured saddle tank on a tanker truck. The truck was located within 1 mile of the site boundary, on company property, NOT within the plant protected area. Approximately 70 gallons of diesel fuel oil was spilled in the immediate vicinity of the parked truck and did not get into any waterway. The remainder of the fuel oil was pumped from the ruptured tank into a 55 gallon drum. The event did not meet thresholds for reporting to the state of Pennsylvania. However, the contractor (Rizzo Associates) performing the work made a courtesy call to the Department of Environmental Protection with subsequent notifications made to the Susquehanna control room. This 4 hour notification is made per 10CFR50.72(b)(2)(xi) for 'Any event or situation related to the health and safety of the public or onsite personnel, or protection of the environment for which a news release is planned or notification to other government agencies has been or will be made.' The clean-up plan was discussed with the DEP and is currently in progress. This incident had no impact to SSHS or its operating units. The licensee informed the NRC Resident Inspector.
ENS 4372213 October 2007 05:15:00SusquehannaNRC Region 1GE-4

Susquehanna Unit 1 was being manually shutdown on 10/13/2007 for a planned maintenance outage to address control cell friction. Prior to the shutdown five control rods had been declared inoperable due to control cell friction. When reactor power was lowered to 10% at 0220, entry into Tech Spec 3.1.3 was required for 'One or more BPWS groups with four inoperable control rods'. The completion time for this specification is 4 hours. The inoperability of the control rods condition cannot be cleared in the specified time. This condition results in the unit being in a 'Shutdown Required By Technical Specifications'. The required action is to be in Mode 3 within 12 hours. The Shutdown required by Technical Specifications is reportable as a 4 hour Non-Emergency report under 10 CFR 50.72(b)(2)(i). Manual insertion of control rods will continue until all rods are fully inserted. Hot Shutdown is expected by 0800, 10/13/07. Shutdown activities will continue to place the unit in cold shutdown. A Press Release will be made concerning the planned maintenance outage. The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector.

  • * * UPDATE AT 1438 ON 11/7/2007 FROM TODD CREASY TO MARK ABRAMOVITZ * * *

On October 13, 2007, Susquehanna operators began the process of shutting down Unit 1 for a planned maintenance outage to address known control cell friction issues. Because four of five control rods declared inoperable during the operating cycle were located in the same Banked Position Withdrawal Sequence (BPWS) group, station personnel realized that conditions for entry into Technical Specification (TS) 3.1.3 'Control Rod Operability' Condition E would already be met when thermal power reached 10% rated thermal power during the shutdown. (NOTE: TS 3.1.3 Condition E is not applicable when thermal power is > 10%). With power less than or equal to 10%, TS 3.1.3 Condition E mandates restoration of control rods to operable status within 4 hours. If this 4 hour completion time is not met, TS 3.1.3 Condition F mandates that the plant enter Mode 3 (Hot Shutdown) within the next 12 hours. At 0220 hours on October 13, power was lowered to 10% power and TS 3.1.3 Condition E was entered. Control Room personnel, anticipating that the 4 hour restoration window allowed by Condition E would expire before the LCO could be cleared, reported the shutdown as a shutdown required by Tech Specs per 10 CFR 50.72(b)(2)(i). The ENS report was made proactively before the 4 hour restoration window had expired. Subsequently, the Unit 1 mode switch was placed to Shutdown (Mode 3) at 0610 hours on October 13. Because the timing of this mode change was within the 4 hour restoration window provided by TS 3.1.3 Condition E and because TS 3.1.3 is no longer applicable once Mode 3 is attained, the Condition requiring shutdown (Condition F) was never entered as a result of the inoperable BPWS rods as was initially reported via EN #43722. However, TS 3.1.3 Condition F can also be directly entered if nine or more control rods become inoperable. As the controlled shutdown Progressed, four additional control rods had been conservatively declared inoperable because they failed to settle at latched position '00' in a reasonable period of time. (Note: LER reports 50-387/2005-002-00 and 50-387/2006-001-00 have previously discussed control rod friction experienced at Susquehanna.) Accordingly, TS 3.1.3 Condition F was entered at 0343 hours on October 13, 2007. This TS entry constitutes the initiation of a nuclear plant shutdown required by the plant's Technical Specifications and is thus reportable per 10CFR50.72(b)(2)(i). Sufficient compensatory measures had been enacted such that TS 3.1.3 Condition F was no longer applicable by the time the controlled plant shutdown was completed. Therefore, the 60-day reporting that is necessary when a nuclear plant shutdown is completed per a plant's Tech Specs does not apply. (Reference: 10 CFR 50.73(a)(2)(i)(A)) The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector. Notified the R1DO (Miller).

ENS 4391818 January 2008 17:54:00SusquehannaNRC Region 1GE-4At 1703 EST on 1/18/2008, Susquehanna LLC personnel became aware that a shipment received from GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy exceeded the allowable limit of 200 mr/hr contact dose rate. The external radiation limit of 200 mrem/hr was exceeded on one of the two boxes comprising the shipment. The limit per NDAP-QA-0648 is 200 mrem/hr on contact for a shipment type for a transport vehicle which is not designated exclusive use. The actual value was determined to be 350 mrem/hr, therefore reportable per the requirements of 10CFR20.1906(d)(2). The NRC Resident Inspector and the Shipper (GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy) were notified. The transport vehicle left Wilmington NC on 1/17/2008 at 1435 and was received by SSES (Susquehanna Steam Electric Station) on 1/18/2008 at 0800. There was no surface contamination noted on the shipment. The original survey completed prior to shipment noted the highest on contact dose rate was 170 mr/hr. This item is reportable under 50.72(b)(2)(xi) for offsite notification of an event of public interest. The boxes contained various pieces of equipment that GE uses to support refueling. The licensee has notified the NRC Resident Inspector and will be notifying the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency.
ENS 439635 February 2008 21:07:00SusquehannaNRC Region 1GE-4On February 5, 2008 EST at 1845 hours it was discovered that irradiated fuel moves had been performed during the previous shift with both Unit 1 and Unit 2 refuel floor high exhaust radiation monitors bypassed. The condition affected both Susquehanna Units. The radiation monitors are required to be operable for conditions noted in footnotes (a) and (b) in Technical Specification Tables 3.3.6.2-1 and 3.3.7.1-1 (i.e. operations with a potential for draining the reactor vessel, and during CORE ALTERATIONS and during movement of irradiated fuel assemblies in the secondary containment). The function of these instruments is to initiate systems that limit fission product release during and following certain postulated fuel handling accidents and to minimize the consequences of radioactive material in the control room environment. No movement of irradiated fuel assemblies was in progress when the issue was discovered. The event has been determined to be reportable within 8 hours under 10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(v)(C) and 10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(v)(D). The radiation monitors were bypassed on 1/31/08, as allowed, during a fuel pool activity NOT involving fuel movement. Approximately one hour of fuel movement occurred during the time the radiation monitors were bypassed. The oncoming shift manager identified the discrepancy during the shift turnover prior to assuming the shift. The licensee has notified the NRC Resident Inspector.
ENS 4407017 March 2008 11:50:00SusquehannaNRC Region 1GE-4

At approximately 1200 hours, on 03/17/2008, the Unit 1 SPDS and ERDS system will be removed from service to connect a temporary power supply to support a planned maintenance outage on the PICSY (Plant Indication Computer System) computer normal power supply. The installation of temporary power is expected to have a duration greater than 8 hours, but less than 24. During this time, control room hardwire indications will be available. An update will be provided when SPDS/ERDS becomes available. Since the Unit 1 SPDS/ERDS computer system will be unavailable for greater than 8 hours, this is considered a Loss of Emergency Assessment Capability and reportable under 10CFR50.72(b)(3)(xiii). The licensee has notified the NRC Resident Inspector.

  • * * UPDATE FROM RICH KLINEFELTER TO HOWIE CROUCH @ 1222 HRS. EDT ON 03/18/08 * * *

This is a follow-up courtesy notification to EN# 44070. Unit 1 ERDS has been restored as PICSY is now on temporary power. Restoration to normal power is expected to occur on 3/21/08. SPDS remains out of service due to other planned outage activities. The licensee has notified the NRC Resident Inspector. Notified R1DO (Perry).

  • * * UPDATE FROM JIM HUFFORD TO JOHN KNOKE @ 0530 HRS. EDT ON 03/21/08 * * *

This is a follow-up courtesy notification to EN# 44070. As at 0513, on 03/21/08, Unit I ERDS and PICSY are now fully restored. The planned outage activities are now complete. The licensee will notify the NRC Resident Inspector. Notified R1DO (Neil Perry)

ENS 4408722 March 2008 11:01:00SusquehannaNRC Region 1GE-4

At 1035 hours, on 03/22/2008, the Unit 1 SPDS and ERDS system was removed from service to disconnect and remove a temporary power supply to support a planned maintenance outage on the PICSY computer normal power supply. The disconnection and removal of temporary power is expected to have a duration greater than 8 hours, but less than 24. During this time, control room hardwire indications will be available. An update will be provided when SPDS/ERDS becomes available. Since the Unit 1 SPDS/ERDS computer system will be unavailable for greater than 8 hours, this is considered a Loss of Emergency Assessment Capability and reportable under 10 CFR50.72(b)(3)(xiii). The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector.

  • * UPDATE FROM JIM HUFFORD TO JOHN KNOKE AT 0423 EDT ON 3/23/08 * *

This is a follow-up courtesy notification to EN# 44087. As of 0213 EDT, on 03/23/08, Unit 1 ERDS and PICSY are now fully restored. The planned outage activities are now complete. No further maintenance scheduled. The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector.

ENS 442572 June 2008 17:17:00SusquehannaNRC Region 1GE-4The following is a 4 Hr Non-Emergency notification in accordance with 10 CFR 50.72(b)(2)(xi), Offsite Notification. At 1440, June 2, 2008, Susquehanna LLC was notified by the Barnwell South Carolina waste disposal facility, of an issue with a shipping cask containing irradiated hardware shipped from Susquehanna LLC. The cask was received at the facility on 5/31/08 and the incoming radiological survey was completed with no out of specification values. On June 2, 2008, the cask had the impact limiter removed and was in the process of being offloaded when it was discovered that one of the twelve bolts that secure the cask base plate to the cask body was found hand tight. The remaining eleven bolts were not loose, There was no radiological safety concern associated with the bolting condition as survey results confirmed that no radioactivity leaked from the cask. The waste facility will issue a condition report for Susquehanna's response. The site South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Controls (SC DHEC) Inspector was notified by Barnwell facility personnel of the issue. The licensee's QC inspector is required to verify bolt torque before the cask leaves the site. This will be confirmed by the licensee. The licensee will be notifying PEMA (Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency). The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector.
ENS 4434210 July 2008 16:18:00SusquehannaNRC Region 1GE-4

At 0738 hours on 07/10/08, reactor operators noticed that information on displays of the Plant Integrated Computer System were not periodically updating. Investigation by computer maintenance personnel was initiated. Reactor power was reduced 1 % to ensure compliance with license limits. As of 1538 hours, reliable operation of the computer was not restored. This computer system also performs the Safety Parameter Display System (SPDS) and Emergency Response Data System (ERDS) functions. Redundant, normal control room indications are still available to the operators. Since the Unit 1 SPDS and ERDS computer system were not reliable for greater than 8 hours, this is considered a Loss of Emergency Assessment Capability and therefore reportable under 10CFR50.72(b)(3)(xiii). Prior to this event, plant personnel were performing plant computer modifications. Compensatory measures are in place to provide emergency assessment data should an event occurs that requires it. The licensee has notified the NRC Resident Inspector.

  • * * UPDATE FROM JIM HUFFORD TO JOHN KNOKE AT2052 EDT ON 07/10/08 * * *

This is a follow-up courtesy notification to EN# 44342. As of 2017 on 07/10/08, Unit 1 ERDS and PICSY were fully restored to normal operation. Unit 1 reactor power was returned to full power of 94.4% as of 2042 on 7/10/08. The licensee has notified the NRC Resident Inspector. Notified R1DO (Art Burritt)

ENS 4450318 September 2008 21:11:00SusquehannaNRC Region 1GE-4

At 1848 on 09/18/2008, the control room was notified by system engineering that insulation was missing from the bottom of the HPCI turbine that could result in nearby electronic components being subjected to higher than design temperatures. This could challenge the ability of the HPCI system to perform its design function for the prescribed mission times. The condition does not prevent the high pressure coolant injection system from automatically starting and injecting during an accident. The longer term ability of the system to continue to inject is challenged by the existing condition. The HPCI system was immediately declared inoperable while engineering continues to evaluate the condition to determine if an actual loss of design function has occurred. This is being reported as an event or condition that could have prevented fulfillment of a safety function required to mitigate the consequences of an accident in accordance with 10CFR50.72(b)(3)(v)(D). The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector.

  • * * RETRACTION ON 11/12/2008 AT 1616 FROM MARTIN LICHTNER TO MARK ABRAMOVITZ * * *

On September 18, 2008, PPL Susquehanna LLC reported a potential loss of the HPCI safety function under the provisions of 10CFR50.72(b)(3)(v)(D). The report was made when it was discovered that insulation was missing from the bottom of the Unit 2 HPCI turbine. This situation raised concerns that increased area temperatures could adversely affect nearby electronic equipment needed to support long-term HPCI operation. A subsequent investigation has determined that all potentially affected components were rated for operation at temperatures greater than those anticipated during HPCI operation with the missing insulation. An additional physical inspection confirmed that there was no abnormal discoloration or visible signs of accelerated thermal aging on the components and wires in question. It has therefore been concluded that HPCI operability had not been impacted by the missing insulation. Accordingly, the loss of safety function reported on September 18th under ENS # 44503 is being retracted. The insulation has since been restored to the HPCI turbine. The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector. Notified the R1DO (Trapp).

ENS 4451323 September 2008 07:34:00SusquehannaNRC Region 1GE-4

PPL Susquehanna is installing a backup diesel to supply power to the Emergency Operating Facility (EOF) during loss of power conditions. A power outage is required to tie-in the transfer switch for the new power supply. The scope of work includes connection of offsite power to a new transformer, connection from the transformer to the transfer switch and connection of power from the transfer switch to the building's distribution panel. This power outage, which is expected to be approximately 3 hours, is required to make final connections and to test the new service. During the outage, temporary power will be supplied to the phone lines only. HVAC, lighting and computer terminals will be without power. This condition is a loss of emergency response capability and is reportable to the NRC as an 8 hour ENS notification per 10CFR50.72(b)(3)(xiii). The licensee contacted the NRC Resident Inspector.

  • * * UPDATE FROM R. KLINEFELTER TO J. KNOKE AT 1303 EDT ON 09/23/08 * * *

This is a follow-up courtesy notification to EN# 44513. As of 12:20, on 09/23/08, power has been restored to the Susquehanna Emergency Operating Facility (EOF). Licensee has notified the NRC Resident Inspector and the state. Notified R1DO (Conte)

ENS 4460327 October 2008 12:53:00SusquehannaNRC Region 1GE-4

At 1206 on 27 October 2008 PPL Susquehanna, LLC, declared an Alert (classification OA7) for an oxygen deficient atmosphere for a room in the Unit 2 Reactor Building. The oxygen deficient atmosphere occurred in the Unit 2 RHR Division 2 Pump Room during maintenance activities. Personnel evacuated this room. Activation of the Emergency plan is reportable under 10CFR50.72(a)(3). The licensee made all notifications as required to state and local responders. The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector.

  • * * UPDATE FROM CHARLIE RIGSBY TO JOE O'HARA AT 1741 ON 10/27/08 * * *

The ALERT was terminated at 1726 EDT based upon re-establishment of a suitable atmosphere. The licensee notified the State, local agencies, and the NRC Resident Inspector. R1DO(Cobey), NRR EO(Giitter), and IRD(McDermott) notified. Notifications to DHS, FEMA, DOE, USDA, HHS were also made by the NRC Operations Center.

ENS 4507316 May 2009 20:04:00SusquehannaNRC Region 1GE-4

At 1801 on 5/16/2009, the HPCI turbine steam supply valve (HV255F001) failed to close during shutdown of the system following performance of its quarterly flow surveillance. The auxiliary oil pump was de-energized to prevent an inadvertent start of HPCI and the HPCI system was declared inoperable. LCO 3.5.1 for the HPCI system being inoperable was entered at 1720 on 5/16/2009 at the start of the HPCI surveillance. An investigation is in progress to determine the nature of the problem. This is being reported as an event or condition that could have prevented fulfillment of a safety function required to mitigate the consequences of an accident in accordance with 10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(v)(D). The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector.

  • * * RETRACTION ON 7/16/09 AT 1543 FROM TODD CREASEY TO CHARLES TEAL * * *

On May 16, 2009, the HPCI system was declared inoperable at 1720 hours and LCO 3.5.1 was entered to support the planned quarterly HPCI flow surveillance test. During the surveillance test, at 1801 hours, the HPCI turbine steam supply valve (HV255F001) failed to close during shutdown of the system. It was also identified that neither the open nor closed indication lamp in the control room were lit. Troubleshooting was performed by cycling the valve's breaker in an attempt to restore power to the HPCI steam supply valve. No movement of the valve was observed. Because the position of the HPCI steam supply valve was unknown, Operations secured HPCI by opening the auxiliary oil pump breaker for the purpose of conducting additional troubleshooting (maintenance) of the failure of the HV255F001 valve to close. On 5/16/09 at 2004 hours EDT, Susquehanna made an 8-hour ENS notification (45703) to the NRC, due to HPCI being declared inoperable when HV255F001 failed to close during performance of the quarterly surveillance. Subsequent investigation concluded that the HPCI turbine steam supply valve (HV255F001) did close as expected, but did not indicate closed due to a loss of position indication. It was determined that the closed indicating lamp had burned out. Upon replacement of the lamp, the valve was successfully stroked open and closed and HPCI was declared operable at 0800 EDT 5/17/2009. Because a condition did not exist at the time of discovery that could have prevented the fulfillment of a safety function in accordance with 10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(v)(D), EN #45073 is hereby being retracted. It should be noted that the subsequent action to disable HPCI by opening the auxiliary oil pump break does not preclude retraction of the ENS notification. This action did not create a new reportable condition since HPCI was already inoperable for planned surveillance testing. This action was taken as part of troubleshooting activities (maintenance) on the HV255F001 valve and to prevent an inadvertent start of HPCI. The NRC Resident has been notified. Notified R1DO (Gray)

ENS 451156 June 2009 08:16:00SusquehannaNRC Region 1GE-4The NRC Operations Center was pre-notified of the following activity: The following was determined to be an Event of Potential Public Interest (EPPI) and required reporting to the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency (PEMA). On Saturday, 06/06/09 and Sunday, 06/07/09, Susquehanna will be moving an irradiated steam dryer from the reactor building to an onsite storage area. The dryer will be in a shielded container to minimize personnel dose during the move. In addition, access to the owner controlled areas near the site will be restricted. The presence of these controls may result in public inquiries about this planned activity. If onsite emergency response is required during the move, offsite agencies that support Susquehanna will not be impacted. Susquehanna will maintain the ability of Fire and Emergency Medical personnel to access the site. The licensee will notify the NRC Resident Inspector.
ENS 4527018 August 2009 02:00:00SusquehannaNRC Region 1GE-4

At 1210 hours on 08/17/09, reactor operators noticed (the) Plant Integrated Computer System was beginning to fail. This computer system also performs the Safety Parameter Display System (SPDS) and Emergency Response Data System (ERDS) functions. Investigation by computer maintenance personnel was initiated. It was determined that (the) Safety Parameter Display System (SPDS) and Emergency Response Data System (ERDS) were not reliable. Redundant, normal control room indications are still available to the operators. At 1955 hours on 08/17/09, the Plant Integrated Computer System was restored to service, including the Safety Parameter Display System (SPDS) and Emergency Response Data System (ERDS) functions. A few hours later at 0004 hours on 08/18/09, the Plant Integrated Computer System failed, including loss of Safety Parameter Display System (SPDS) and Emergency Response Data System (ERDS). Reactor power was lowered by 0.3% from the initial authorized limit of 94.4% to 94.1% due to the loss of the core thermal power heat balance provided by the computer system. Since the Unit 2 SPDS and ERDS computer systems were not available for greater than an 8 hour time period, this is considered a Loss of Emergency Assessment Capability and therefore reportable under 10CFR50.72(b)(3)(xiii). The licensee has notified the NRC Resident Inspector.

  • * * UPDATE AT 1321 ON 8/17/2009 FROM JIM HUFFORD TO KARL DIEDERICH * * *

As of 1336 hours on 08/18/09, Unit 2 ERDS and SPDS were restored to normal operation. Unit 2 reactor power was returned to full power of 94.4% shortly thereafter." The licensee has notified the NRC Resident Inspector. Notified R1DO (Conte).

ENS 4527318 August 2009 15:08:00SusquehannaNRC Region 1GE-4At 0920 on 08/18/2009, the Unit 1 HPCI turbine stop valve (FV15612) showed dual indication following performance of the weekly functional test of the HPCI lube oil system. Subsequent investigation revealed that the valve stem was not in the full closed position. LCO 3.5.1 for the HPCI system was entered at 0920 on 08/18/2009. An investigation is in progress to determine the nature of the problem. This incident is being reported as an event or condition that could have prevented fulfillment of a safety function required to mitigate the consequences of an accident in accordance with 10CFR50.72(b)(3)(v)(D). The HPCI pump was declared inoperable. This is a 14 day LCO. The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector.
ENS 4528020 August 2009 20:14:00SusquehannaNRC Region 1GE-4

At 0950 the Plant Integrated Computer System started to fail as indicated by a loss of computer link to Generation. Investigation by computer maintenance personnel was initiated. The failure mode of the computer precluded accessing screens to allow use of Safety Parameter Display System (SPDS) and Emergency Response Data System (ERDS). Computer core thermal power indication remained available to the control room operators. Redundant, normal control room indications are still available to the operators. At 1217 hours on 08/20/09, a planned loss of computer core thermal power indication occurred due to ongoing computer maintenance activities. At 1458 hours on 08/20/09, the Plant Integrated Computer System was fully restored to service, including the Safety Parameter Display System (SPDS) and Emergency Response Data System (ERDS) functions. At 1643 hours on 08/20/09, the Plant Integrated Computer System started to fail again as indicated by loss of computer link to Generation. This problem with the computer again precluded accessing Safety Parameter Display System (SPDS) and Emergency Response Data System (ERDS). Core thermal power indication remained available via the plant computer system. However, anticipated troubleshooting actions will require a reduction in power by approximately 0.25-0.33% by reducing core flow. Due to the cumulative impacts of the loss of the plant computer system, this notification is being communicated ahead of the 8 hour unavailability of the Unit 2 SPDS and ERDS computer system. This is considered a Loss of Emergency Assessment Capability and therefore reportable under 10CFR50.72(b)(3)(xiii). The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector.

  • * * UPDATE FROM RICHARD KLINEFELTER TO CHARLES TEAL AT 1222 EDT ON 8/25/2009 * * *

As of 1200 hours, Unit 2 ERDS and SPDS (Safety Parameter Display System) were restored to normal operation. The licensee has notified the NRC Resident Inspector. Notified R1DO (White).

ENS 453369 September 2009 16:40:00SusquehannaNRC Region 1GE-4

On Wednesday, Sept. 9 at 9:30 am EDT, all 76 emergency sirens that serve the communities within a 10-mile radius of the PPL Susquehanna nuclear power plant failed during their bi-weekly silent test. The failed siren test was initiated by Columbia County at 9:30 am; Luzerne County was then asked to complete the test from its controller, but it experienced a similar failure. The vendor that services the system was called in and is working to fix the problem, which is believed to be a fault in the system radio repeaters. A backup emergency notification plan is in place with local emergency agencies. A voluntary notification will be made to the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency. The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector.

  • * * UPDATE FROM RICH KLINEFELTER TO VINCE KLCO AT 1847 ON 09/09/2009 * * *

All emergency sirens were restored to service and tested successfully as of 1742 on 09/09/2009. The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector. Notified R1DO(Powell).

ENS 455341 December 2009 21:53:00SusquehannaNRC Region 1GE-4The following transmission was made as a voluntary notification at 1800 EST: On 12/01/09 at 1410 (EST), due to a Unit 2 cooling tower make-up supply line failure, a valve vault was flooded and overflowed at several thousands of gallons per minute flow. The local fire company was contacted to provide equipment assistance in pumping out the vault. The river water overflowing the vault entered nearby storm drains and a nearby building housing non-safety related equipment. There are no injuries or an emergency of any kind. The water entering the storm sewer does not constitute a reportable spill. Unit 2 reactor power was reduced to 80% to minimize cooling tower impact. The Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency was notified at 1800 EST. Various other local and state agencies have been advised of the event. Subsequently, notifications were made to the following agencies: Salem Township Supervisor Chairman State Senator Baker State Rep. Boback Columbia County Commissioner Soberick Federal Affairs to notify US Rep. Kanjorski's staff. Although the impact of this make-up supply line failure to the environment is insignificant (Radiological levels are less than lower limit of detection), its occurrence coupled with subsequent notifications to aforementioned agencies is likely to cause heightened public or government concern. Thus, Susquehanna Steam Electric Station is making a four hour ENS notification pursuant to 10CFR50.72(b)(2)(xi). A press release is not planned at this time. The licensee has notified the NRC Resident Inspector.
ENS 4563820 January 2010 12:20:00SusquehannaNRC Region 1GE-4At approximately 0900 on December 16, 2009, a PPL employee, located within the Susquehanna protected area, received a gift package from a vendor that contained a bottle of an alcoholic beverage. The individual immediately notified his supervision and Susquehanna Security personnel who took possession of the bottle. The bottle was still sealed with the original seal. The NRC (Resident Inspector) and Regional Security Inspectors were informed on the day of the event. The individual who received the package was a non-licensed employee. This event was originally not recognized as being reportable as a 24 hour call.
ENS 4570617 February 2010 16:24:00SusquehannaNRC Region 1GE-4The following is a 4-hour non-emergency notification in accordance with 10CFR50.72(b)(2)(xi), Offsite Notification. At 1420, February 17, 2010, Susquehanna LLC notified the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) of an issue with the domestic water supply system at the Susquehanna facility. This notification was made via telephone. The notification to Pennsylvania DEP was in accordance with 25 PA Code 109.1307 due to circumstances that exist that adversely affect the quality of drinking water. Specifically, no residual chlorine was detectable in the domestic water system. The Pennsylvania DEP contact was the Pennsylvania DEP Sanitarian. Required compensatory actions have been initiated, including planned repairs of the domestic water chlorination system. The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector
ENS 4572625 February 2010 16:20:00SusquehannaNRC Region 1GE-4This 60-day notification is being made in accordance with 10 CFR 50.73(a)(1), which states that in case of an invalid actuation reported under 10 CFR 50.73(a)(2)(iv)(A), other than the actuation of the Reactor Protection System (RPS) when the reactor is critical, the licensee may provide a telephone notification to the NRC within 60 days after discovery of the event instead of submitting a written LER. Because plant conditions necessary to prompt a containment isolation were not present, this event constitutes an invalid system actuation under 10 CFR 50.73(a)(2)(iv)(A). The condition meets the criteria of 10 CFR 50.73(a)(2)(iv)(B)(2) because the loss of the Unit 1 'B' RPS bus affected containment isolation valves in more than one system. On 1/4/2010 at 1418 hours, the Unit 1 'B' RPS bus was lost. This event resulted in a half scram and primary containment isolations. By design, when the RPS MG set output breaker trips, all EPA breakers downstream of the MG set also trip resulting in a half scram and primary containment isolation signals. An event investigation found the Unit 1 'B' RPS MG set running with its output breaker tripped. The output voltage was indicating 120VAC, which indicates that the voltage regulator was operating properly. Upon removal of the MG set cover, the underfrequency relay (UFR) contacts were found to be chattering, with frequency steady at approximately 60 Hz. A review of plant drawings indicated that a chattering UFR could cause the MG set output breaker to trip. Voltage readings were taken and no additional electrical problems (other than the UFR) were identified. The affected RPS loads were subsequently powered from their alternate source and all actuations and isolations were reset. Inspection and test of the failed UFR found that one leg of a capacitor on the UFR electronic board had broken adjacent to its solder joint connection on the board. It is suspected that the capacitor lead may have been flawed during manufacture of the board. The failure was accelerated by the constant vibration that the connection is subjected to, as the UFR is mounted on the MG set. The failed UFR electronic board was subsequently replaced and successfully passed all functional tests. There were no actual safety consequences associated with this event. Valves affected by the invalid signal fulfilled their isolation function by successfully closing. The RPS loads were transferred to their alternate power supply and the trips and isolations were reset. In addition, the Unit 1 'B' RPS bus did not experience an underfrequency condition. The licensee has notified the NRC Resident Inspector.
ENS 4576715 March 2010 12:51:00SusquehannaNRC Region 1GE-4Appendix J Local Leak Rate Testing has determined that Secondary Containment Bypass Leakage (SCBL) has been exceeded for Unit 1. During performance of leak rate test SE-159-045, the combined SCBL limit of 15 scfh (standard cubic feet per hour) for as-found minimum pathway was exceeded as specified in Tech Spec SR 3.6.1.3.11. Acceptance Criteria Test results were within Acceptance Criteria for the 10CFR50 Appendix J limits of 0.6 La (maximum allowed leakage rate). This event is being reported as a degraded or unanalyzed condition pursuant to 10CFR50.72(b)(3)(ii)(A). The RHR system containment spray penetration isolation valve was being tested when the failure occurred. The valve will be repaired and re-tested. The licensee has notified the NRC Resident Inspector.
ENS 4586622 April 2010 13:20:00SusquehannaNRC Region 1GE-4At 10:51 on 4/22/10, Susquehanna Unit 1 experienced an automatic reactor SCRAM on reactor low level, +13", during the initial testing of the Feedwater Integrated Control System. Following the SCRAM, reactor water level dropped to approx. -30", and the Reactor Core Isolation Cooling system initiated and injected into the vessel. Level was recovered by the Feedwater System and the RCIC system. Division 2 Alternate Rod Insertion unexpectedly initiated during the level transient. Due to scheduled maintenance activities, the 11B Aux Bus did not transfer to the off site power supply post SCRAM. The 11B Aux bus was restored at 12:17. There were no ECCS initiations and no challenges to containment. This event is a Reactor Protection System (RPS) actuation when the reactor is critical, and is reportable as a four hour ENS Notification under 10 CFR 50.72(b)(2)(iv)(B). This event is also an unplanned actuation of a system used to mitigate the consequences of a significant event and is reportable as an eight hour ENS notification under 10CFR50.72(b)(3)(iv)(A). The scram was described as uncomplicated. All rods fully inserted and all systems functioned as required. The initiation of the alternative rod insertion should not occur unless level drops below -38" but the initiation did not result in any complications. The offsite supply breaker to Aux bus 11B was under maintenance when the scram occurred and so the loss of power was expected. This bus supplies some balance of plant loads which were lost (recirculation pump, condensate pump, and circulating water pump) but the loss of these components had no impact on the transient. The NRC Resident Inspector has been notified. The licensee will notify State authorities and also plans a press release.
ENS 4593015 May 2010 01:17:00SusquehannaNRC Region 1GE-4At approximately 2301 hours EDT on May 14, 2010, Susquehanna Steam Electric Station Unit One reactor scrammed while performing a condensate pump trip test. The reactor operator placed the mode switch in shutdown when reactor water level reached +51 inches and rising. The main turbine tripped due to high reactor water level. All control rods inserted and both reactor recirculation pumps tripped. Reactor water level lowered to -30 inches causing Level 3 (+13 inches) isolations. The Operations crew restored reactor water level to the normal operating band using RCIC (Reactor Core Isolation Cooling) and subsequently the feedwater system. All isolations at this level occurred as expected. No steam relief valves opened. Pressure was controlled via turbine bypass valve operation. All safety systems operated as expected. The reactor is currently stable in Mode 3. An investigation into the cause of the shutdown is underway. Unit Two continued power operation. The NRC Resident Inspectors were notified. A press release will occur. The licensee was performing testing on the digital feedwater control system which was installed during their recent refueling outage when the loss of level control occurred. It appears that the control system did not respond fast enough to control water level. This resulted in the reactor operator inserting a manual scram at +51 inches prior to reaching the reactor automatic scram setpoint of +54 inches for water level. Currently, the plant is removing decay heat via main steam line drains to the condenser. The plant is in its normal shutdown electrical lineup with all safety equipment available. The licensee has notified the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency.
ENS 4605730 June 2010 16:03:00SusquehannaNRC Region 1GE-4At 0955 on June 30, 2010, the Control Room was notified that sulfuric acid was leaking from a temporary acid containment berm onto a gravel surface area adjacent to the containment berm. The quantity of this leak was <5 gallons of approximately 93% concentrated sulfuric acid. The leak was in the non-radiologically controlled area of the plant, associated with a temporary acid injection system for cooling tower water treatment. Spill response personnel responded to contain and neutralize the leakage. No material was directly released to any waterway or offsite area. The quantity of material released is below any environmental regulatory limits. Actions are ongoing in removal of the acid from the leaking tank inside the containment berm area. An offsite company with expertise in the handling of this material has been contacted and will be providing assistance with the response efforts. A courtesy call was made to the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency for an event of potential public interest at 1530 on June 30, 2010. The NRC Resident Inspector has been notified.
ENS 4610316 July 2010 20:03:00SusquehannaNRC Region 1GE-4At approximately 1641 EDT on July 16, 2010, Susquehanna Steam Electric Station Unit 1 reactor was manually scrammed due to a large unisolable circulating water system leak in the main condenser area. Attempts to isolate the source of the leakage were unsuccessful. During these attempts, reactor operators lowered reactor power from approximately 90% to about 39%. Based on rising water level in the condenser area and unsuccessful isolation of the source of the leakage, Operations decided to shut down the plant. The reactor operator placed the mode switch in shutdown. All control rods (fully) inserted. Reactor water level lowered to -28 inches causing Level 3 (+13 inches) isolations. The Operations crew subsequently maintained reactor water level at the normal operating band using RCIC. No steam relief valves opened. The main steam isolation valves were manually closed and the circulating water system was shut down. Pressure control was initiated using HPCI in the pressure control mode. All safety systems operated as expected. The reactor is currently stable in Mode 3. Actions to isolate and investigate the cause of the circulating water system leakage are underway. Unit 2 continued power operation. The licensee has notified the NRC Resident Inspector, and will be issuing a press release.
ENS 4610719 July 2010 15:16:00SusquehannaNRC Region 1GE-4PPL Susquehanna LLC personnel notified the PA DEP Bureau of Water Quality Management that Susquehanna Unit 1 experienced a large leak of river water in the turbine building on 7/16/2010 (reported under EN#46103). Efforts are currently underway to process that water prior to its return to the river. The NRC Resident Inspectors have also been notified. This notification is in accordance with 10CFR50.72(b)(2)(xi), in that an offsite notification has been completed regarding an event related to the protection of the environment. The licensee reported to the PA DEP since the water that is being processed for return to the river contains less than EPA reportable quantities of tritium.
ENS 4613528 July 2010 17:45:00SusquehannaNRC Region 1GE-4A licensed operator was determined to have violated the licensee's Fitness for Duty Policy related to self-reporting a legal action. The employee's access to the Protected Area has been revoked. Contact the Headquarters Operations Officer for additional details.
ENS 4616410 August 2010 10:02:00SusquehannaNRC Region 1GE-4

At 0911 EDT, the Susquehanna LLC Shift Manager was notified that a member of the SSES (Susquehanna Steam Electric Station) work force was feeling ill effects from a Freon-12 leak located in a plant vital area. This met the declaration criteria for an Alert under (EAL) OA-7 of the emergency plan which was declared at 0922 EDT. The affected area has been evacuated and recovery actions are in progress to isolate the leak. No personnel were injured or medical attention was required. The leak is in the 1A Reactor Building chiller unit. At the time of notification, the leak was still active. The licensee is preparing a team to enter the area to investigate. No outside assistance is required. Notified DHS (Hill), FEMA (Heyman), DOE (Smith), USDA (Mitchell) and HHS (Rolle).

  • * * UPDATE FROM DARVIN DUTTRY TO DONALD NORWOOD AT 0044 EDT ON 8/11/2010 * * *

At 2335 EDT on 8/10/10, the Alert was terminated. The Chiller has been evacuated of Freon-12. Freon detectors show no presence of Freon-12 on U1 Reactor Building Elevation 749 (feet), except in the immediate vicinity from the leak site with temporary ventilation in service. All state and local agencies have been advised, the NRC Resident Inspector has been notified and a press release will be made. Agencies that the licensee notified included the Columbia County Emergency Management Agency, the Luzerne County Emergency Management Agency, the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency and the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. Notified R1DO (Ferdas), NRR EO (Nelson), IRD Manager (Gott), DHS (Doyle), FEMA (O'Connell), DOE (Morrone), HHS (White), and USDA (Timmons).

ENS 4626822 September 2010 15:09:00SusquehannaNRC Region 1GE-4

At 0830 (EDT) on 09/22/2010, the Unit 2 High Pressure Coolant Injection (HPCI) system was determined to be inoperable due to a minor lube oil leak on the 'A' supply filter. LCO 3.5.1 for the HPCI system was entered at 0830 (EDT) on 09/22/2010. The leak on the 'A' filter could not be immediately corrected. The 'B' filter was placed in service and leak checked satisfactorily. The LCO 3.5.1 action statements were closed at 1454 (EDT) on 09/22/2010. This incident is being reported as an event or condition that could have prevented fulfillment of a safety function required to mitigate the consequences of an accident in accordance with 10CFR50.72(b)(3)(v)(D). The licensee notified the NRC Resident Inspector.

  • * * RETRACTION FROM RONALD FRY TO DONG PARK AT 1609 EST ON 11/18/10 * * *

At 1501 on September 22, 2010, PPL Susquehanna, LLC reported that the Unit 2 High Pressure Coolant Injection (HPCI) system was inoperable due to a minor lube oil leak on the 'A' supply filter. Subsequent investigation and evaluation determined that HPCI was capable of performing all of its safety functions with the identified oil leak. The operability determination was based on the following: Investigation of the leak identified that the installed filter housing cover o-ring was undersized and had to be inappropriately stretched to fit in the o-ring groove in the housing cover. The cover is torqued to 75 ft-lbs by four bolts on the outer diameter of the cover, enclosing the o-ring in a metal to metal connection. There is no concern for the o-ring to extrude from the cover under this configuration. The worst case that can be postulated as a result of the undersized o-ring is a leak in which the drops break into a small stream. This type of leak is expected to result in less than 10 gallons of oil loss during the system's 6 hour mission time. The vendor recommended oil reserve level is approximately 124 gallons. The lube oil sump has a 155 gallon capacity and the remaining oil (approximately 145 gallons) is sufficient to support operability. As a result, the worst case leakage is not expected to affect operability of HPCI or result in system failure during the HPCI mission time. Operations verifies oil level weekly and prior to any planned run. The licensee has notified the NRC Resident Inspector. Notified R1DO (Gray).