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Covid LL_Part2_May 2021_20210518
	ML21139A116
Person / Time
Site:	Nuclear Energy Institute
Issue date:	05/20/2021
From:	; Nuclear Energy Institute
To:	; Office of Nuclear Reactor Regulation
References
	Download: ML21139A116 (10)
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Industrys COVID Lessons Learned

- Part 2 May 20, 2021

Overview The COVID Experiment What We Learned The New Normal Adaptation

The COVID Experiment COVID restrictions created a national experiment in technology-enabled work Expanded use of technology dramatically changed how we communicate, get work done, and support our work and relationships Technology-enabled work:

Is changing workplace culture

Is a boon in many ways, but brings challenges as well

Has highlighted what can and cant be done virtually

What Have We Learned about Inspections?

Direct Observation (i.e., inspector presence onsite)

Is an essential element of the inspection program

Helps build or maintain feel-for-the-plant

Is important in training new inspectors

Requires firm, physical logistics (travel, workspace, schedule)

What Have We Learned about Inspections?

Technology-Enabled Work

Is feasible for some inspections

Is practical for entrances, exits, document retrieval and review

Mirrors technology-enabled workplace changes by licensees

Reduces or eliminates travel and plant workspace needs

Enables more flexible scheduling

Facilitates access to meetings held virtually

Increases dependence on electronic communications with licensee and residents

Requires strong IT support

What Does the New Normal Look Like?

For licensees:

COVID concerns remain a significant factor in decisions about plant staffing and operations, and a consideration in inspection support

COVID protective measures will remain in place for the foreseeable future, subject to state and local health department requirements Licensees are evaluating when/how to return to office over the second half of 2021, with varying levels of telework anticipated Result is likely to be:

Continued reliance on online tools (conferencing, file-sharing)

More flexibility for non-essential staff to work offsite

Reduced number of non-essential staff onsite

Reduced travel by plant personnel

Adapting to the New Normal Guiding Principles

1. Build on COVID experience to prepare for contingencies

2. Maintain NRC effectiveness

3. Maintain NRC independence

4. Ensure unfettered inspector access

5. Recognize necessity of some onsite activities

6. Be flexible in application of technology-enabled inspection activities

7. Leverage information technology

8. Once effectiveness is assured, optimize efficiency

9. Consider pros and cons for both NRC and licensees

Recommendations Establish guiding principles for adapting the inspection program to the New Normal Engage with industry and other external stakeholders to identify challenges and solutions and address staff questions Identify opportunities to improve the inspection process through the use of technology (e.g., information collection)

Conclusions Technology-enabled work is part of the New Normal for NRC and industry It offers benefits to our non-essential workers The way industry supports NRC inspections has changed and these changes will continue in the New Normal Industry is eager to engage with the NRC to adapt the inspection program to the New Normal

Questions Given the New Normal described above, what practices or technologies would most help inspectors to:

a) Protect themselves and plant workers from COVID concerns?

b) Perform their work as effectively and efficiently as practical?

c) Interface with plant personnel as easily as when onsite?

d) Obtain requested documents as promptly as when onsite?

e) Maintain their feel-for-the-plant during periods of telework?

f) Complete inspection requirements as punctually as when onsite?

ML21139A116

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