IR 05000298/2017001

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Errata - Cooper - NRC Integrated Inspection Report 05000298/2017001
ML19046A087
Person / Time
Site: Cooper Entergy icon.png
Issue date: 02/11/2019
From: Jason Kozal
NRC/RGN-IV/DRP
To: Dent J
Nebraska Public Power District (NPPD)
Kozal J
References
IR 2017001
Download: ML19046A087 (48)


Text

ary 11, 2019

SUBJECT:

ERRATA - COOPER NUCLEAR STATION - NRC INTEGRATED INSPECTION REPORT 05000298/2017001

Dear Mr. Dent:

Based on a revised Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) position on wall-thinning issues affecting American Society of Mechanical Engineers piping systems, the NRC has decided to retract NCV 05000298/2017001-04 that was issued as part of NRC Inspection Report 05000298/2017001, dated May 1, 2017 (ADAMS Accession No. ML17122A362). The NRC recognizes that conformance to Section XI requirements associated with flaws in piping systems are only applicable when identified during volumetric examinations required by the applicable edition of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers Code.

This letter, its enclosure, and your response (if any) will be made available for public inspection and copying at http://www.nrc.gov/reading-rm/adams.html and at the NRC Public Document Room in accordance with 10 CFR 2.390, Public Inspections, Exemptions, Requests for Withholding.

Sincerely,

/RA/

Jason W. Kozal, Chief Project Branch C Division of Reactor Projects Docket No. 50-298 License No. DPR-46 Enclosure:

Inspection Report 05000298/2017001 w/ Attachments:

1. Supplemental Information 2. Information Request

U.S. NUCLEAR REGULATORY COMMISSION

REGION IV

Docket: 05000298 License: DPR-46 Report: 05000298/2017001 Licensee: Nebraska Public Power District Facility: Cooper Nuclear Station Location: 72676 648A Ave Brownville, NE Dates: January 1 through March 31, 2017 Inspectors: P. Voss, Senior Resident Inspector C. Henderson, Resident Inspector P. Elkmann, Senior Emergency Preparedness Inspector E. Uribe, Project Engineer I. Anchondo, Reactor Inspector R. Deese, Senior Reactor Analyst J. Watkins, Reactor Inspector Approved Jason W. Kozal By: Chief, Project Branch C Division of Reactor Projects Enclosure

SUMMARY

IR 05000298/2017001; 01/01/2017 - 03/31/2017; Cooper Nuclear Station; Equip. Alignment,

Maint. Effectiveness, Operability Determinations & Functionality Assessments, Problem ID. &

Resolution, Follow-up of Events & Notices of Enforcement Discretion.

The inspection activities described in this report were performed between January 1 and March 31, 2017, by the resident inspectors at Cooper Nuclear Station and inspectors from the NRCs Region IV office. Five findings of very low safety significance (Green) are documented in this report. All of these findings involved violations of NRC requirements. The significance of inspection findings is indicated by their color (i.e., Green, greater than Green, White,

Yellow, or Red), determined using Inspection Manual Chapter 0609, Significance Determination Process, dated April 29, 2015. Their cross-cutting aspects are determined using Inspection Manual Chapter 0310, Aspects within the Cross-Cutting Areas, dated December 4, 2014. Violations of NRC requirements are dispositioned in accordance with the NRC Enforcement Policy. The NRCs program for overseeing the safe operation of commercial nuclear power reactors is described in NUREG-1649, Reactor Oversight Process, dated July 2016.

Cornerstone: Initiating Events

Green.

The inspectors reviewed a self-revealed, non-cited violation of Technical Specification 5.4.1.a, for the licensees failure to implement Maintenance Procedure 7.3.16, Low Voltage Relay Removal and Installation, Revision 22, for relay replacement work. Specifically, on October 28, 2016, the licensee failed to evaluate the potential impact of primary containment isolation system relay PCIS-REL-K27 work on shutdown cooling relay PCIS-REL-K30, which was mounted next to K27 and shared a common mounting rail. As a result, the licensee did not identify the potential of losing residual heat removal shutdown cooling, and while installing the K27 relay and snapping it into the mounting rail, workers caused a momentary actuation of relay K30 and a loss of residual heat removal shutdown cooling. Corrective actions to restore compliance included restoration of shutdown cooling, completion of the K27 relay maintenance with shutdown cooling out of service, and an outage risk management procedure change that prohibited work on or near shutdown cooling relays while the system was required to be in service. The licensee entered this deficiency into the corrective action program as Condition Report CR-CNS-2016-07645.

The licensees failure to implement Maintenance Procedure 7.3.16, in violation of Technical Specification 5.4.1.a, was a performance deficiency. The performance deficiency was more than minor, and therefore a finding, because it was associated with the equipment performance attribute of the Initiating Events Cornerstone and affected the associated cornerstone objective to limit the likelihood of those events that upset plant stability and challenge critical safety functions during shutdown operations. Using Inspection Manual Chapter 0609, Appendix G, Attachment 1, Shutdown Operations Significance Process Phase 1 Initial Screening and Characterization of Findings, dated May 9, 2014, the inspectors determined that the finding did not require a quantitative assessment because the event occurred when the refuel canal/cavity was flooded. Therefore, the finding screened as very low safety significance (Green). The finding had a cross-cutting aspect in the area of human performance associated with work management, because the licensee failed to implement a process of planning, controlling, and executing work activities such that nuclear safety was the overriding priority, including the need for coordination with different work groups or job activities. Specifically, the licensee failed to control, execute, and coordinate safety-related primary containment isolation system relay work activities to ensure residual heat removal shutdown cooling was not adversely impacted [H.5].

(Section 4OA3)

Cornerstone: Mitigating Systems

Green.

The inspectors identified a non-cited violation of Technical Specification 5.4.1.a for the licensees failure to maintain Emergency Procedure 5.1ASD, Alternate Shutdown,

Revision 17, for establishing reactor equipment cooling system flow to the high pressure coolant injection system fan coil unit. Specifically, the licensee failed to maintain Emergency Procedure 5.1ASD with adequate instructions to place the reactor equipment cooling system north or south critical loop in service and verify reactor equipment system flow to the high pressure cooling injection system fan coil unit during some control room evacuation scenarios. The immediate corrective actions were to assess operability of the high pressure coolant injection system during control room evacuations that are not related to fire scenarios, and to revise Emergency Procedure 5.1ASD with instructions to open the critical loop supply valves (REC-MOV-711 or REC-MOV-714) in the control room or locally, and verify reactor equipment system flow to the high pressure coolant injection fan coil unit.

The licensee entered this deficiency into the corrective action program as Condition Report CR-CNS-2017-01403.

The licensees failure to maintain Emergency Procedure 5.1ASD to establish reactor equipment cooling system flow to the high pressure coolant injection fan coil unit during some control room evacuation scenarios, in violation of Technical Specification 5.4.1.a, was a performance deficiency. The performance deficiency was determined to be more than minor, and therefore a finding, because it was associated with the procedural quality attribute of the Mitigating Systems Cornerstone and adversely affected the cornerstone objective to ensure availability, reliability, and capability of systems that respond to initiating events. Specifically, the licensee did not provide instructions to establish reactor equipment cooling system flow to the high pressure coolant injection system fan coil unit, which would have complicated operator response during a control room evacuation. Using Inspection Manual Chapter 0609, Appendix A, The Significance Determination Process (SDP) for Findings At-Power, dated June 19, 2012, the inspectors determined that the finding had very low safety significance (Green) because it: was not a design deficiency; did not represent a loss of system and/or function; did not represent an actual loss of function; did not represent an actual loss of function of at least a single train for longer than its technical specification allowed outage time; and did not result in the loss of a high safety-significant nontechnical specification train. The finding had a cross-cutting aspect in the area of problem identification and resolution associated with identification. Specifically, the licensee failed to implement a corrective action program with a low threshold for identifying issues during the required annual review of emergency procedures [P.1]. (Section 1R04)

Green.

The inspectors identified a non-cited violation of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B,

Criterion V, Instructions, Procedures, and Drawings, associated with the licensees failure to identify a condition adverse to quality associated with Station Procedure 2.2.24.1, 250 Vdc Electrical System (Div 1), Revision 14, in accordance with Station Procedure 0-CNS-LI-102, Corrective Action Process, Revision 6. Specifically, the licensee failed to identify that Station Procedure 2.2.24.1 contained inadequate instructions to ensure the oncoming charger 1C output voltage was matched with the bus 1A voltage when transferring bus 1A from charger 1A to charger 1C, so that technical specification bus voltage requirements would remain met. This resulted in an unexpected and initially unrecognized decline in voltage on the bus to below the required minimum of 260.4 Vdc.

This condition required the licensee to declare the Division 1 250 Vdc electrical system and Division 1 residual heat removal low pressure coolant injection system inoperable. The immediate corrective action was to adjust the charger 1C float voltage greater than 260.4 Vdc to restore operability of the Division 1 250 Vdc electrical and residual heat removal low pressure coolant injection systems. The licensee entered this deficiency into the corrective action program as Condition Reports CR-CNS-2016-08658 and CR-CNS-2017-00750.

The licensees failure to identify a condition adverse to quality associated with Station Procedure 2.2.24.1, to ensure technical specification bus voltage requirements were met, in violation of Station Procedure 0-CNS-LI-102, was a performance deficiency. The performance deficiency was determined to be more than minor, and therefore a finding, because it was associated with the procedural quality attribute of the Mitigating Systems Cornerstone and adversely affected the cornerstone objective to ensure availability, reliability, and capability of systems that respond to initiating events. Specifically, charger 1C, when in service, did not maintain battery 1A terminal voltage within the requirements of Surveillance Requirement 3.8.4.1, which required the licensee to declare the Division 1 250 Vdc electrical system and the Division 1 residual heat removal low pressure coolant injection system inoperable. Using Inspection Manual Chapter 0609,

Appendix A, The Significance Determination Process (SDP) for Findings At-Power, dated June 19, 2012, the inspectors determined that the finding had very low safety significance (Green) because it: was not a design deficiency; did not represent a loss of system and/or function; did not represent an actual loss of function; did not represent an actual loss of function of at least a single train for longer than its technical specification allowed outage time; and did not result in the loss of a high safety-significant, nontechnical specification train. The finding had a cross-cutting aspect in the area of problem identification and resolution associated with evaluation. Specifically, the licensee failed to thoroughly evaluate the charger 1C float voltage issue to ensure that the resolution addressed the cause and extent of condition commensurate with the safety significance

[P.2]. (Section 1R12)

Green.

The inspectors identified a non-cited violation of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B,

Criterion V, Instructions, Procedures, and Drawings, associated with the licensees failure to identify a condition adverse to quality for Division 1 residual heat removal service water booster pump A, in accordance with Station Procedure 0-CNS-LI-102,

Corrective Action Process, Revision 6. Specifically, on January 5, 2017, the inspectors identified an oil level lower than normally expected, oil on the pump skid, and an oil droplet formed on the Division 1 residual heat removal service water booster pump A inboard bearing sight glass. The inspectors informed the control room of this condition, and the licensee determined the oil leakage from the pumps sight glass would have prevented the pump from operating for the required 30 days during a design basis accident. The immediate corrective action was to repair the Division 1 residual heat removal service water booster pump A inboard bearing sight glass, restoring operability of the pump. The licensee entered this deficiency into the corrective action program as Condition Report CR-CNS-2017-00054.

The licensees failure to identify a condition adverse to quality for Division 1 residual heat removal service water booster pump A, in violation of Station Procedure 0-CNS-LI-102, was a performance deficiency. The performance deficiency was determined to be more than minor, and therefore a finding, because it was associated with the equipment performance attribute of the Mitigating Systems Cornerstone and adversely affected the cornerstone objective to ensure availability, reliability, and capability of systems that respond to initiating events. Specifically, the oil leakage from the service water booster pump A inboard bearing sight glass would have prevented the pump from operating for its required 30-day mission time during a design basis accident and resulted in the pump being declared inoperable. Using Inspection Manual Chapter 0609, Appendix A, The Significance Determination Process (SDP) for Findings At-Power, dated June 19, 2012, the inspectors determined that the finding had very low safety significance (Green)because it: was not a design deficiency; did not represent a loss of system and/or function; did not represent an actual loss of function; did not represent an actual loss of function of at least a single train for longer than its technical specification allowed outage time; and did not result in the loss of a high safety-significant nontechnical specification train. The finding had a cross-cutting aspect in the area of human performance associated with challenge the unknown because the licensee failed to stop when faced with uncertain conditions and failed to ensure that risks are evaluated and managed before proceeding. Specifically, the licensee did not maintain a questioning attitude during job-site reviews to identify and resolve unexpected conditions, including lower than the expected oil level in the service water booster pump A inboard bearing sight glass, oil on the pump skid, and an oil droplet formed on the bottom of the sight glass [H.11]. (Section 1R15)

Green.

The inspectors reviewed a self-revealed, non-cited violation of Technical Specification 3.0.4 for the licensees failure to install the correct reactor core isolation cooling pressure control valve, RCIC-AOV-PCV23, mechanical stop and verify proper operation of the system prior to entering a mode of applicability for Technical Specification 3.5.3. This condition resulted in RCIC-AOV-PCV23 going fully open during surveillance testing following Refueling Outage 29, causing a pressure transient. This transient caused a failure of the reactor core isolation cooling turbine lube oil cooler gasket, lifting of a pressure relief valve, and a water leak. The licensee immediately shut down the reactor core isolation cooling system and declared it inoperable. The immediate corrective actions were to restore RCIC-AOV-PCV23 from the closed mechanical stop to the required open mechanical stop and to replace the turbine lube oil cooler gasket to restore operability of the system. The licensee entered this deficiency into the corrective action program as Condition Report CR-CNS-2016-08122 and initiated a root cause evaluation to investigate this condition.

The licensees failure to install the correct reactor core isolation cooling pressure control valve, RCIC-AOV-PCV23, mechanical stop and verify proper operation of the system prior to entering a mode of applicability for Technical Specification 3.5.3, in violation of Technical Specification 3.0.4, was a performance deficiency. The performance deficiency was determined to be more than minor, and therefore a finding, because it was associated with the design control attribute of the Mitigating Systems Cornerstone and adversely affected the cornerstone objective to ensure availability, reliability, and capability of systems that respond to initiating events. Specifically, the licensee installed RCIC-AOV-PCV23 with the incorrect mechanical stop, and proper valve operation was not verified after installation during Refueling Outage 29, which caused the reactor core isolation cooling system to lose function during surveillance testing. This transient caused a failure of the reactor core isolation cooling turbine lube oil cooler gasket and an associated water leak. Using Inspection Manual Chapter 0609, Appendix A, The Significance Determination Process (SDP) for Findings At-Power, dated June 19, 2012, the inspectors determined that the finding required a detailed risk evaluation because it represented a loss of system and/or function. In the detailed risk evaluation, the analyst assumed the reactor core isolation cooling system was unavailable for 50 hours5.787037e-4 days <br />0.0139 hours <br />8.267196e-5 weeks <br />1.9025e-5 months <br />. The analyst used the Test/Limited Use Version COOPER-DEESE-HCI03 of the Cooper SPAR model run on SAPHIRE,

Version 8.1.5. The analyst updated the initiating event frequencies for transients, losses of condenser heat sink, losses of main feed water, grid related losses of offsite power, and switchyard centered losses of offsite power to the more recent values from the 2014 update to the industry data found in INL/EXT-14-31428, Initiating Event Rates at U.S. Nuclear Power Plants, 1998-2013, Revision 1. From this, the finding was determined to have an increase in core damage frequency of 8.4E-8/year and to be of very low safety significance (Green). Transients, losses of condenser heat sink, and losses of main feed water were the dominant core damage sequences. The automatic depressurization system and the reactor protection system remained to mitigate these sequences. The finding had a cross-cutting aspect in the area of human performance associated with documentation because the licensee failed to create and maintain complete, accurate, and up-to-date documentation associated with RCIC-AOV-PCV23 design drawings and the maintenance procedure for setting and testing the mechanical stop [H.7]. (Section 4OA3)

PLANT STATUS

The Cooper Nuclear Station began the inspection period at full power, where it remained for the rest of the reporting period, except for minor reductions in power to support scheduled surveillances and rod pattern adjustments.

REPORT DETAILS

REACTOR SAFETY

Cornerstones: Initiating Events, Mitigating Systems, and Barrier Integrity

1R01 Adverse Weather Protection

Readiness for Seasonal Extreme Weather Conditions

a. Inspection Scope

On February 7, 2017, the inspectors completed an inspection of the stations readiness for seasonal extreme weather conditions. The inspectors reviewed the licensees adverse weather procedures for seasonal low temperatures and evaluated the licensees implementation of these procedures. The inspectors verified that prior to the onset of cold weather, the licensee had corrected weather-related equipment deficiencies identified during the previous cold weather season.

The inspectors selected one risk-significant system that was required to be protected from cold weather:

  • Battery Room The inspectors reviewed the licensees procedures and design information to ensure the system would remain functional when challenged by adverse weather. The inspectors verified that operator actions described in the licensees procedures were adequate to maintain readiness of this system. The inspectors walked down portions of this system to verify the physical condition of the adverse weather protection features.

These activities constituted one sample of readiness for seasonal adverse weather, as defined in Inspection Procedure 71111.01.

b. Findings

No findings were identified.

1R04 Equipment Alignment

.1 Partial Walk-Down

a. Inspection Scope

The inspectors performed partial system walk-downs of the following risk-significant systems:

  • March 27, 2017, reactor core isolation cooling The inspectors reviewed the licensees procedures and system design information to determine the correct lineup for the systems. They visually verified that critical portions of the systems were correctly aligned for the existing plant configuration.

These activities constituted three partial system walk-down samples, as defined in Inspection Procedure 71111.04.

b. Findings

Introduction.

The inspectors identified a Green, non-cited violation (NCV) of Technical Specification 5.4.1.a for the licensees failure to maintain Emergency Procedure 5.1ASD, Alternate Shutdown, Revision 17, for establishing reactor equipment cooling (REC) system flow to the high pressure coolant injection (HPCI)system fan coil unit (FCU).

Description.

The inspectors reviewed Emergency Procedure 5.1ASD, Alternate Shutdown, Revision 17, for forced evacuation of the control room for any reason other than a fire. From this review, the inspectors identified that the procedure did not contain instructions to establish REC system flow to the HPCI system FCU. Specifically, instructions were not provided to open the REC north or south critical loop valves (REC-MOV-711 or REC-MOV-714) prior to leaving the control room, if time permits, or locally and to verify REC system flow to the HPCI system FCU. The inspectors noted that the REC system function during a forced evacuation of the control room was to supply system flow to the HPCI FCU to support operation of the HPCI system. The inspector informed the licensee of this condition. The inspectors observed that the licensee modified the REC/HPCI system interlocks in June 1993; and as a result, REC system flow would not have automatically aligned to supply the HPCI FCU under all conditions that are encountered when operating in Emergency Procedure 5.1ASD.

The immediate corrective actions were to assess operability of the HPCI system for leaving the control room for reasons other than a fire, to revise Emergency Procedure 5.1ASD with instructions to open REC-MOV-711 or REC-MOV-714 in the control room or locally, and to verify REC system flow to the HPCI FCU. The licensee entered this deficiency into the corrective action program as Condition Report CR-CNS-2017-01403.

The inspectors noted that the licensee reviewed the emergency procedures on an annual basis, and that the alternate shutdown panel has an indicating light for REC flow greater than or equal to 12 gallons per minute (gpm) to the HPCI FCU. The inspectors concluded that the licensees annual emergency procedure review should have identified the procedure deficiency

Analysis.

The licensees failure to maintain Emergency Procedure 5.1ASD to establish REC system flow to the HPCI FCU during some control room evacuation scenarios, in violation of Technical Specification 5.4.1.a, was a performance deficiency. The performance deficiency was determined to be more than minor, and therefore a finding, because it was associated with the procedural quality attribute of the Mitigating Systems Cornerstone and adversely affected the cornerstone objective to ensure availability, reliability, and capability of systems that respond to initiating events. Specifically, the licensee did not provide instructions to establish reactor equipment cooling system flow to the high pressure coolant injection system fan coil unit, which would have complicated operator response during a control room evacuation. Using Inspection Manual Chapter 0609, Appendix A, The Significance Determination Process (SDP) for Findings At-Power, dated June 19, 2012, the inspectors determined that the finding had very low safety significance (Green) because it: was not a design deficiency; did not represent a loss of system and/or function; did not represent an actual loss of function; did not represent an actual loss of function of at least a single train for longer than its technical specification allowed outage time; and did not result in the loss of a high safety-significant nontechnical specification train. The finding had a cross-cutting aspect in the area of problem identification and resolution associated with identification. Specifically, the licensee failed to implement a corrective action program with a low threshold for identifying issues during the required annual review of emergency procedures [P.1].

Enforcement.

Technical Specification 5.4.1.a requires, in part, that written procedures be established, implemented, and maintained covering the applicable procedures recommended in Appendix A to Regulatory Guide 1.33, Quality Assurance Program Requirements, Revision 2, dated February 1978. Regulatory Guide 1.33, Appendix A, Section 6.p, requires procedures for fire in the control room or forced evacuation of the control room. Contrary to the above, from June 1993 to March 2017, the licensee failed to maintain procedures for forced evacuation of the control room. Specifically, the licensee failed to maintain Emergency Procedure 5.1ASD, Alternate Shutdown, Revision 17, for establishing reactor equipment cooling system flow to the high pressure coolant injection (HPCI) system fan coil unit (FCU) during some control room evacuation scenarios. The finding resulted in the potential to complicate the licensees response during control room evacuation scenarios for reasons other than a fire. The immediate corrective actions were to assess operability of the HPCI system for these control room evacuation scenarios, and to revise Emergency Procedure 5.1ASD with instructions to open REC-MOV-711 or REC-MOV-714 in the control room or locally, and verify REC system flow to the HPCI FCU. Because this violation was of very low safety significance (Green) and was entered into the licensees corrective action program as Condition Report CR-CNS-2017-01403, this violation is being treated as a non-cited violation, consistent with Section 2.3.2.a of the Enforcement Policy. (NCV 05000298/2017001-01, Failure to Maintain Alternate Shutdown Emergency Procedure)

.2 Complete Walk-Down

a. Inspection Scope

On March 24, 2017, the inspectors performed a complete system walk-down inspection of the 125 and 250 Vdc battery room. The inspectors reviewed the licensees procedures and system design information to determine the correct system lineup for the existing plant configuration. The inspectors also reviewed outstanding work orders, open condition reports, in-process design changes, temporary modifications, and other open items tracked by the licensees operations and engineering departments. The inspectors then visually verified that the system was correctly aligned for the existing plant configuration.

These activities constituted one complete system walk-down sample, as defined in Inspection Procedure 71111.04.

b. Findings

No findings were identified.

1R05 Fire Protection

Quarterly Inspection

a. Inspection Scope

The inspectors evaluated the licensees fire protection program for operational status and material condition. The inspectors focused their inspection on four plant areas important to safety:

  • March 21, 2017, 125 and 250 Vdc battery B room, Fire Area CB-B, Zone 8F
  • March 21, 2017, cable spreading room, Fire Area CB-D, Zone 9A
  • March 24, 2017, cable expansion room, Fire Area CB-D, Zone 9B
  • March 24, 2017, reactor building northeast quadrant, Fire Area RB-A, Zone 1A For each area, the inspectors evaluated the fire plan against defined hazards and defense-in-depth features in the licensees fire protection program. The inspectors evaluated control of transient combustibles and ignition sources, fire detection and suppression systems, manual firefighting equipment and capability, passive fire protection features, and compensatory measures for degraded conditions.

These activities constituted four quarterly inspection samples, as defined in Inspection Procedure 71111.05.

b. Findings

No findings were identified.

1R06 Flood Protection Measures

a. Inspection Scope

On January 30, 2017, the inspectors completed an inspection of the stations ability to mitigate flooding due to internal causes. After reviewing the licensees flooding analysis, the inspectors chose one plant area containing risk-significant structures, systems, and components (SSCs) that were susceptible to flooding:

  • Emergency diesel generator rooms The inspectors reviewed plant design features and licensee procedures for coping with internal flooding. The inspectors walked down the selected area to inspect the design features, including the material condition of seals, drains, and flood barriers.

The inspectors evaluated whether operator actions credited for flood mitigation could be successfully accomplished.

These activities constituted completion of one flood protection measures sample, as defined in Inspection Procedure 71111.06.

b. Findings

No findings were identified.

1R07 Heat Sink Performance

a. Inspection Scope

The inspectors completed an inspection of the readiness and availability of risk-significant heat exchangers:

  • February 24, 2017, reactor equipment cooling heat exchanger B
  • March 8, 2017, reactor equipment cooling heat exchanger A The inspectors observed performance tests for heat exchangers A and B, reviewed the data from a performance test for heat exchangers A and B, verified the licensee used the industry standard periodic maintenance method outlined in Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) NP-7552 for heat exchangers A and B, observed the licensees implementation of biofouling controls for heat exchangers A and B, and observed the licensees inspection of heat exchangers A and B and the material condition of the heat exchanger internals. Additionally, the inspectors walked down heat exchangers A and B to observe their performance and material condition and verified that heat exchangers A and B were correctly categorized under the Maintenance Rule and were receiving the required maintenance.

These activities constituted completion of two heat sink performance annual review samples, as defined in Inspection Procedure 71111.07.

b. Findings

No findings were identified.

1R11 Licensed Operator Requalification Program and Licensed Operator Performance

.1 Review of Licensed Operator Requalification

a. Inspection Scope

On March 27, 2017, the inspectors observed simulator training for an operating crew.

The inspectors assessed the performance of the operators and the evaluators critique of their performance. The inspectors also assessed the modeling and performance of the simulator. On February 13, 2017, the inspectors observed flow loop simulator training for an operating crew. The training was performed in response to identification of an adverse trend of configuration control events at the station, including the mispositioning of RHR minimum flow valves. The inspectors assessed the performance of the operators and the evaluators critique of their performance.

These activities constituted completion of one quarterly licensed operator requalification program sample, as defined in Inspection Procedure 71111.11.

b. Findings

No findings were identified.

.2 Review of Licensed Operator Performance

a. Inspection Scope

On February 11, 2017, the inspectors observed the performance of on-shift licensed operators in the plants main control room. At the time of the observations, the plant was in a period of heightened activity due to a downpower for rod pattern adjustment and surveillance testing.

In addition, the inspectors assessed the operators adherence to plant procedures, including conduct of operations procedure and other operations department policies.

These activities constituted completion of one quarterly licensed operator performance sample, as defined in Inspection Procedure 71111.11.

b. Findings

No findings were identified.

1R12 Maintenance Effectiveness

Routine Maintenance Effectiveness

a. Inspection Scope

The inspectors reviewed three instances of degraded performance or condition of safety-significant SSCs:

  • February 17, 2017, Refueling Outage 29 containment isolation local leak-rate test failures
  • February 17, 2017, 250 Vdc distribution system
  • March 30, 2017, service water temperature control valve SW-TCV-451 B The inspectors reviewed the extent of condition of possible common cause SSC failures and evaluated the adequacy of the licensees corrective actions. The inspectors reviewed the licensees work practices to evaluate whether these may have played a role in the degradation of the SSCs. The inspectors assessed the licensees characterization of the degradation in accordance with 10 CFR 50.65 (the Maintenance Rule), and verified that the licensee was appropriately tracking degraded performance and conditions in accordance with the Maintenance Rule.

These activities constituted completion of three maintenance effectiveness samples, as defined in Inspection Procedure 71111.12.

b. Findings

Introduction.

The inspectors identified a Green, non-cited violation of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion V, Instructions, Procedures, and Drawings, associated with the licensees failure to identify a condition adverse to quality associated with Station Procedure 2.2.24.1, 250 Vdc Electrical System (Div 1), Revision 14, for transferring 250 Vdc, bus 1A, from 250 Vdc, charger 1A, to 250 Vdc, charger 1C, in accordance with Station Procedure 0-CNS-LI-102, Corrective Action Process, Revision 6.

Description.

On December 6, 2016, during operator rounds, the licensee identified that 250 Vdc, bus 1A, did not meet TS 3.8.4, DC Sources - Operating, Surveillance Requirement (SR) 3.8.4.1. Specifically, SR 3.8.4.1 requires that the 250 Vdc, battery 1A, terminal voltage on a float charge be maintained greater than or equal to 260.4 Vdc. The licensee immediately declared the Division 1, 250 Vdc electrical subsystem and the Division 1, RHR low pressure coolant injection (LPCI) system inoperable. The licensees immediate corrective action was to adjust the 250 Vdc, charger 1C, float voltage to greater than 260.4 Vdc to restore operability of the Division 1, 250 Vdc electrical system and the Division 1, residual heat removal LPCI system. Additionally, the licensee determined that these systems where inoperable for approximately 6 hours6.944444e-5 days <br />0.00167 hours <br />9.920635e-6 weeks <br />2.283e-6 months <br />, which corresponded to when the licensee transferred 250 Vdc, bus 1A, from the 250 Vdc, charger 1A, to 250 Vdc, charger 1C, in support of 250 Vdc, charger 1A, maintenance. The licensee entered this deficiency into the corrective action program as Condition Report (CR) CR-CNS-2016-08685 and closed this CR to trend because the condition was corrected based on actions taken. Specifically, the licensee did not determine why 250 Vdc, charger 1C, did not maintain 250 Vdc, bus 1A, voltage in accordance with SR 3.8.4.1 when it was placed into service on December 6, 2016.

The inspectors reviewed CR-CNS-2016-08685 and questioned the closure of this CR to trend without additional evaluation. Through NRC questions, the inspectors identified a condition adverse to quality associated with Station Procedure 2.2.24.1, 250 Vdc Electrical System (Div 1), Revision 14, for transferring 250 Vdc, bus 1A, from 250 Vdc, charger 1A, to 250 Vdc, charger 1C. Specifically, the licensee failed to identify that Station Procedure 2.2.24.1, contained inadequate instructions to ensure the oncoming 250 Vdc, charger 1C, output voltage was matched with 250 Vdc, bus 1As, voltage in accordance with Station Procedure 0-CNS-LI-102, Corrective Action Process, Revision 6. This resulted in an unexpected and initially unrecognized decline in voltage on the bus to below the required minimum of 260.4 Vdc. This resulted in the 250 Vdc, battery 1A, terminal voltage on a float charge not meeting SR 3.8.4.1 when the 250 Vdc, charger 1C, was in service. The licensee entered this deficiency into the corrective action program as Condition Report CR-CNS-2017-00750.

Analysis.

The licensees failure to identify a condition adverse to quality associated with Station Procedure 2.2.24.1, 250 Vdc Electrical System (Div 1), Revision 14, for transferring 250 Vdc, bus 1A, from 250 Vdc, charger 1A, to 250 Vdc, charger 1C, in violation of Station Procedure 0-CNS-LI-102, was a performance deficiency. The performance deficiency was determined to be more than minor, and therefore a finding, because it was associated with the procedural quality attribute of the Mitigating Systems Cornerstone and adversely affected the cornerstone objective to ensure availability, reliability, and capability of systems that respond to initiating events. Specifically, 250 Vdc, charger 1C, when in service, did not maintain 250 Vdc, battery 1A, terminal voltage within the requirements of Surveillance Requirement 3.8.4.1, and required the licensee to declare the Division 1, 250 Vdc electrical system and the Division 1, RHR low pressure coolant injection system inoperable. Using Inspection Manual Chapter 0609, Appendix A, The Significance Determination Process (SDP) for Findings At-Power, dated June 19, 2012, the inspectors determined that the finding had very low safety significance (Green) because it: was not a design deficiency; did not represent a loss of system and/or function; did not represent an actual loss of function; did not represent an actual loss of function of at least a single train for longer than its technical specification allowed outage time; and did not result in the loss of a high safety-significant, nontechnical specification train. The finding had a cross-cutting aspect in the area of problem identification and resolution associated with evaluation. Specifically, the licensee failed to thoroughly evaluate the 250 Vdc, charger 1C, float voltage issue to ensure that the resolution addressed the cause and extent of condition commensurate with the safety significance [P.2].

Enforcement.

Title 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion V, Instructions, Procedures, and Drawings, requires, in part, that activities affecting quality shall be accomplished in accordance with documented instructions, procedures, or drawings of a type appropriate to the circumstances. Station Procedure 0-CNS-LI-102, "Corrective Action Process, Revision 6, and Appendix B, quality-related procedure, provides instructions for identifying and reporting problems in the corrective action program. Station Procedure 0-CNS-LI-102, Step 3.1.1 states, in part, that all personnel working at Cooper Nuclear Station are responsible for identifying and reporting problems. Contrary to the above, prior to February 15, 2017, personnel working at Cooper Nuclear Station failed to identify and report problems. Specifically, the licensee failed to identify that Station Procedure 2.2.24.1, 250 VDC Electrical System (Div 1), Revision 14, contained inadequate instructions to ensure the oncoming charger 1C output voltage was matched with the bus 1A voltage when swapping battery chargers, so that technical specification bus voltage requirements would remain met. This resulted in the licensee not meeting Technical Specification 3.8.4, DC Sources - Operating, Surveillance Requirement 3.8.4.1, verify battery terminal voltage on float charge is greater than or equal to 260.4 Vdc with 250 Vdc, charger 1C, in service. This condition required the licensee to declare Division 1 250 Vdc electrical system and residual heat removal LPCI system inoperable. The immediate corrective action was to adjust the charger 1C float voltage greater than 260.4 Vdc to restore operability of the Division 1 250 Vdc electrical system and the Division 1 residual heat removal LPCI system.

Because this violation was of very low safety significance (Green) and was entered into the licensees corrective action program as Condition Report CR-CNS-2017-00750, this violation is being treated as a non-cited violation (NCV), in accordance with Section 2.3.2.a of the NRC Enforcement Policy. (NCV 05000298/2017001-02, Failure to Identify a Condition Adverse to Quality Associated with the 250 Vdc Electrical System)

1R13 Maintenance Risk Assessments and Emergent Work Control

a. Inspection Scope

The inspectors reviewed three risk assessments performed by the licensee prior to changes in plant configuration and the risk management actions taken by the licensee in response to elevated risk:

  • February 17, 2017, 250 Vdc, bus A, below technical specification minimum voltage The inspectors verified that these risk assessments were performed timely and in accordance with the requirements of 10 CFR 50.65 (the Maintenance Rule) and plant procedures. The inspectors reviewed the accuracy and completeness of the licensees risk assessments and verified that the licensee implemented appropriate risk management actions based on the results of the assessments.

The inspectors also observed portions of four emergent work activities that had the potential to cause an initiating event, to affect the functional capability of mitigating systems, or to impact barrier integrity:

  • March 10, 2017, emergency diesel generator 1 voltage regulator troubleshooting and repairs The inspectors verified that the licensee appropriately developed and followed a work plan for these activities. The inspectors verified that the licensee took precautions to minimize the impact of the work activities on unaffected SSCs.

These activities constituted completion of seven maintenance risk assessments and emergent work control inspection samples, as defined in Inspection Procedure 71111.13.

b. Findings

No findings were identified.

1R15 Operability Determinations and Functionality Assessments

a. Inspection Scope

The inspectors reviewed seven operability determinations and functionality assessments that the licensee performed for degraded or nonconforming SSCs:

  • March 23, 2017, operability determination of the control rod drive temporary loss of position monitoring system data The inspectors reviewed the timeliness and technical adequacy of the licensees evaluations. Where the licensee determined the degraded SSC to be operable or functional, the inspectors verified that the licensees compensatory measures were appropriate to provide reasonable assurance of operability or functionality. The inspectors verified that the licensee had considered the effect of other degraded conditions on the operability or functionality of the degraded SSC.

These activities constituted completion of seven operability and functionality assessment review samples, as defined in Inspection Procedure 71111.15.

b. Findings

Introduction.

The inspectors identified a Green, non-cited violation of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion V, Instructions, Procedures, and Drawings, associated with the licensees failure to identify a condition adverse to quality for Division 1, RHR service water booster pump A, in accordance with Station Procedure 0-CNS-LI-102, Corrective Action Process, Revision 6.

Description.

On January 5, 2017, during a plant status walk-down, the inspectors identified a lower than expected oil level in the Division 1, residual heat removal service water booster pump A inboard sight glass, oil on the pump skid, and an oil droplet formed on the sight glass. The inspectors informed the licensee of this condition.

The licensee assessed operability for the pump and determined the oil leakage was three drops per hour. The licensee determined that this leakage rate would have prevented service water booster pump A from operating its required 30 days during a design basis accident, and it was declared inoperable. The immediate corrective action was to repair service water booster pump As inboard bearing sight glass to restore operability of the pump. The inspectors determined that the oil leakage started sometime after service water booster pump A maintenance was completed on January 3, 2017.

The licensee entered this deficiency into the corrective action program as Condition Report CR-CNS-2017-00054.

The inspectors noted that Station Procedure 2.1.11.1, Turbine Building Data, Revision 159, required operations personnel to perform daily rounds to measure service water booster pump A oil levels, and conduct once per shift walk-downs of the area. The inspectors concluded that the licensees required daily oil measurements, and once per shift walk-downs provided the opportunity to identify the service water booster pump A oil leakage prior to January 5, 2017.

Analysis.

The licensees failure to identify a condition adverse to quality for Division 1 residual heat removal service water booster pump A, in violation of Station Procedure 0-CNS-LI-102, was a performance deficiency. The performance deficiency was determined to be more than minor, and therefore a finding, because it was associated with the equipment performance attribute of the Mitigating Systems Cornerstone and adversely affected the cornerstone objective to ensure availability, reliability, and capability of systems that respond to initiating events. Specifically, the oil leakage from service water booster pump As inboard bearing sight glass would have prevented it from operating for its required 30-day mission time during a design basis accident and resulted in the pump being declared inoperable. Using Inspection Manual Chapter 0609, Appendix A, The Significance Determination Process (SDP) for Findings At-Power, dated June 19, 2012, the inspectors determined that the finding had very low safety significance (Green) because it: was not a design deficiency; did not represent a loss of system and/or function; did not represent an actual loss of function; did not represent an actual loss of function of at least a single train for longer than its technical specification allowed outage time; and did not result in the loss of a high safety-significant nontechnical specification train. The finding had a cross- cutting aspect in the area of human performance associated with challenge the unknown because the licensee failed to stop when faced with uncertain conditions and failed to ensure that risks are evaluated and managed before proceeding. Specifically, the licensee did not maintain a questioning attitude during job-site reviews to identify and resolve unexpected conditions of lower than expected oil level in the service water booster pump As inboard bearing sight glass, oil on the pump skid, and an oil droplet formed on the bottom of the sight glass [H.11].

Enforcement.

Title 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B, Criterion V, Instructions, Procedures, and Drawings, requires, in part, that activities affecting quality shall be accomplished, in accordance with documented instructions, procedures, or drawings of a type appropriate to the circumstances. Station Procedure 0-CNS-LI-102, "Corrective Action Process, Revision 6, an Appendix B, quality-related procedure, provides instructions for identifying and reporting problems in the corrective action program.

Procedure 0-CNS-LI-102, Step 3.1.1 states, in part, that all personnel working at Cooper Nuclear Station are responsible for identifying and reporting problems.

Contrary to the above, from January 3, 2017, to January 5, 2017, personnel working at Cooper Nuclear Station failed to identify and report problems. Specifically, the licensee failed to identify a condition adverse to quality associated with oil leakage from the Division 1 residual heat removal service water booster pump A inboard bearing sight glass, which caused the subsystem to be inoperable. The immediate corrective action was to repair the inboard bearing sight glass to restore operability of the pump.

Because this violation was of very low safety significance (Green) and was entered into the licensees corrective action program as Condition Report CR-CNS-2016-00054, this violation is being treated as a non-cited violation (NCV), in accordance with Section 2.3.2.a of the NRC Enforcement Policy. (NCV 05000298/2017001-03, Failure to Identify a Condition Adverse to Quality)

1R18 Plant Modifications

a. Inspection Scope

On January 11, 2017, the inspectors reviewed a permanent plant modification to the licensees inservice inspection program that utilized code reconciliation to allow use of internal pipe stress acceptance criteria from later versions of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) code, which affected risk-significant SSCs.

The inspectors reviewed the design and implementation of the modification. The inspectors verified that work activities involved in implementing the modification did not adversely impact operator actions that may be required in response to an emergency or other unplanned event. The inspectors verified that post-modification testing was adequate to establish the operability of the SSC impacted by the modification.

These activities constituted completion of one sample of permanent modifications, as defined in Inspection Procedure 71111.18.

b. Findings

No findings were identified.

1R19 Post-Maintenance Testing

a. Inspection Scope

The inspectors reviewed seven post-maintenance testing activities that affected risk-significant SSCs:

  • January 6, 2017, 250 Vdc charger C maintenance
  • January 23, 2017, 125 Vdc charger A maintenance
  • March 27, 2017, emergency diesel generator 1 voltage regulator repair The inspectors reviewed licensing- and design-basis documents for the SSCs and the maintenance and post-maintenance test procedures. The inspectors observed the performance of the post-maintenance tests to verify that the licensee performed the tests in accordance with approved procedures, satisfied the established acceptance criteria, and restored the operability of the affected SSCs. These activities constituted completion of seven post-maintenance testing inspection samples, as defined in Inspection Procedure 71111.19.

b. Findings

No findings were identified.

1R22 Surveillance Testing

a. Inspection Scope

The inspectors observed five risk-significant surveillance tests and reviewed test results to verify that these tests adequately demonstrated that the SSCs were capable of performing their safety functions:

In-service tests:

  • March 6, 2017, service water booster pump D Other surveillance tests:
  • February 17, 2017, 125 Vdc and 250 Vdc, charger A, performance testing
  • February 17, 2017, essential control building ventilation temperature switch change out and functional test
  • March 31, 2017, reactor core isolation cooling turbine overspeed functional test The inspectors verified that these tests met technical specification requirements, that the licensee performed the tests in accordance with their procedures, and that the results of the test satisfied appropriate acceptance criteria. The inspectors verified that the licensee restored the operability of the affected SSCs following testing.

These activities constituted completion of five surveillance testing inspection samples, as defined in Inspection Procedure 71111.22.

b. Findings

No findings were identified.

Cornerstone: Emergency Preparedness

1EP4 Emergency Action Level and Emergency Plan Changes

a. Inspection Scope

The inspector performed an in-office review of the following documents submitted December 5, 2016:

  • Emergency Plan Implementing Procedure 5.7.1, Emergency Classification, Revision 56
  • Emergency Plan Implementing Procedure 5.7.16, Release Rate Calculation, Revision 26 These revisions:
  • Provided a method to calculate the radiological activity release rate for a release through the hardened containment vent system
  • Revised the criteria for the loss of the fuel clad fission product barrier and the potential loss of primary containment from primary containment flooding is required to Severe Accident Guide 1 entry is required, based on Emergency Preparedness Frequently Asked Question 2015-004, dated July 1, 2015 These revisions were compared to their previous revisions, to the criteria of NUREG-0654, Criteria for Preparation and Evaluation of Radiological Emergency Response Plans and Preparedness in Support of Nuclear Power Plants, Revision 1, to Nuclear Energy Institute Report 99-01, Emergency Action Level Methodology, Revision 5, and to the standards in 10 CFR 50.47(b) to determine if the revisions implemented the requirements of 10 CFR 50.54(q)(3) and 50.54(q)(4). The inspector verified that the revisions did not decrease the effectiveness of the emergency plan.

This review was not documented in a safety evaluation report and did not constitute approval of licensee-generated changes; therefore, these revisions are subject to future inspection.

These activities constituted completion of two emergency action level and emergency plan change samples, as defined in Inspection Procedure 71114.04.

b. Findings

No findings were identified.

1EP6 Drill Evaluation

Emergency Preparedness Drill Observation

a. Inspection Scope

The inspectors observed an emergency preparedness drill on March 28, 2017, to verify the adequacy and capability of the licensees assessment of drill performance. The inspectors reviewed the drill scenario, observed the drill from the control room and the emergency operations facility (EOF), and attended the post-drill critique. The inspectors verified that the licensees emergency classifications, off-site notifications, and protective action recommendations were appropriate and timely. The inspectors verified that any emergency preparedness weaknesses were appropriately identified by the licensee in the post-drill critique and entered into the corrective action program for resolution.

These activities constituted completion of one emergency preparedness drill observation sample, as defined in Inspection Procedure 71114.06.

b. Findings

No findings were identified.

OTHER ACTIVITIES

Cornerstones: Initiating Events, Mitigating Systems, Barrier Integrity, Emergency Preparedness, Public Radiation Safety, Occupational Radiation Safety, and Security

4OA1 Performance Indicator Verification

.1 Unplanned Scrams per 7000 Critical Hours (IE01)

a. Inspection Scope

The inspectors reviewed licensee event reports (LERs) for the period of January 1 through December 31, 2016, to determine the number of scrams that occurred. The inspectors compared the number of scrams reported in these LERs to the number reported for the performance indicator. Additionally, the inspectors sampled monthly operating logs to verify the number of critical hours during the period. The inspectors used definitions and guidance contained in Nuclear Energy Institute Document 99-02, Regulatory Assessment Performance Indicator Guideline, Revision 7, to determine the accuracy of the data reported.

These activities constituted verification of the unplanned scrams per 7000 critical hours performance indicator, as defined in Inspection Procedure 71151.

b. Findings

No findings were identified.

.2 Unplanned Power Changes per 7000 Critical Hours (IE03)

a. Inspection Scope

The inspectors reviewed operating logs, corrective action program records, and monthly operating reports for the period of January 1 through December 31, 2016, to determine the number of unplanned power changes that occurred. The inspectors compared the number of unplanned power changes documented to the number reported for the performance indicator. Additionally, the inspectors sampled monthly operating logs to verify the number of critical hours during the period. The inspectors used definitions and guidance contained in Nuclear Energy Institute Document 99-02, Regulatory Assessment Performance Indicator Guideline, Revision 7, to determine the accuracy of the data reported.

These activities constituted verification of the unplanned power outages per 7000 critical hours performance indicator, as defined in Inspection Procedure 71151.

b. Findings

No findings were identified.

4OA2 Problem Identification and Resolution

.1 Routine Review

a. Inspection Scope

Throughout the inspection period, the inspectors performed daily reviews of items entered into the licensees corrective action program and periodically attended the licensees condition report screening meetings. The inspectors verified that licensee personnel were identifying problems at an appropriate threshold and entering these problems into the corrective action program for resolution. The inspectors verified that the licensee developed and implemented corrective actions commensurate with the significance of the problems identified. The inspectors also reviewed the licensees problem identification and resolution activities during the performance of the other inspection activities documented in this report.

b. Findings

No findings were identified.

.2 Annual Follow-up of Selected Issues

a. Inspection Scope

The inspectors selected two issues for an in-depth follow-up:

  • March 20, 2017, use of incorrect code allowable stress values for service water piping The inspectors assessed the licensees problem identification threshold, cause analyses, extent of condition reviews, and compensatory actions. The inspectors verified that the licensee appropriately prioritized the planned corrective actions and that these actions were adequate to correct the condition.
  • March 24, 2017, reactor core isolation cooling trip and throttle valve, RCIC-MOV-14, pin not installed correctly and pump oil leaks The inspectors assessed the licensees problem identification threshold, cause analyses, extent of condition reviews, and compensatory actions. The inspectors verified that the licensee appropriately prioritized the planned corrective actions and that these actions were adequate to correct the condition. These activities constituted completion of two annual follow-up samples, as defined in Inspection Procedure 71152.

b. Findings

No findings were identified.

4OA3 Follow-up of Events and Notices of Enforcement Discretion

.1 (Closed) Licensee Event Report (LER) 05000298/2016007-00, Isolation of

Shutdown Cooling due to Relay Maintenance Results in a Loss of Safety Function

a. Inspection Scope

On October 28, 2016, during replacement of relay PCIS-REL-K27, the station experienced a loss of shutdown cooling (SDC) while in a refueling outage. Maintenance personnel were installing a new relay onto a shared plastic mounting rail when SDC inadvertently isolated. While snapping the relay into place, the workers disturbed the mounting rail in a manner that caused contacts of the adjacent relay, PCIS-REL-K30, to open. This caused SDC isolation valve RHR-MO-17 to close, which actuated the logic to trip the running 'A' RHR pump.

The licensees root cause evaluation determined that the station did not identify the risk from mechanical agitation during primary containment isolation system (PCIS)relay installation; therefore, the risk was not adequately evaluated or mitigated. The licensee took corrective actions to prevent recurrence, which included revising their shutdown safety risk procedure to identify and list the relays or other devices that could impact SDC when in service.

This issue resulted in a loss of safety function for the RHR system. The licensee reported this failure under 10 CFR 50.72(b)(3)(v) and 10 CFR 50.73(a)(2)(v)(D) as a condition that could have prevented the fulfillment of the safety function of structures or systems that are needed to remove residual heat. The inspectors reviewed the event, including station logs and technical specification (TS) requirements; walked down the affected components; and discussed the events with the licensee. The inspectors also reviewed the root cause evaluation, extent of condition and cause reviews, and the corrective actions associated with the event to ensure they were appropriate.

This licensee event report is closed.

b. Findings

Introduction.

The inspectors reviewed a self-revealed, Green, non-cited violation (NCV) of Technical Specification (TS) 5.4.1.a, for the licensees failure to implement Maintenance Procedure 7.3.16, Low Voltage Relay Removal and Installation, Revision 22, for relay replacement work. Specifically, the licensee failed to evaluate the potential impact of primary containment isolation system (PCIS)relay PCIS-REL-K27 work on RHR SDC relay PCIS-REL-K30, which was mounted next to K27 and shared a common mounting rail. As a result, the licensee did not identify the potential of losing RHR SDC, and while installing the K27 relay and snapping it into the mounting rail, workers caused a momentary actuation of relay K30 and a loss of RHR SDC.

Description.

On October 28, 2016, the licensee was nearing the end of their planned refueling outage and was in the process of completing a SDC out-of-service work window. Operations personnel were preparing to place the RHR Loop A in service for SDC. Throughout the SDC out-of-service window, the alternate decay heat removal (ADHR) system had been maintaining reactor pressure vessel (RPV) and spent fuel pool temperature. During the outage, the licensee had completed work activities for the replacement of 27 PCIS relay coils, including the relay coil for PCIS-REL-K27.

During testing after completion of the work order, maintenance personnel identified that the PCIS-REL-K27 relay did not actuate within expected tolerances. As a result, the licensee revised the work order to direct replacement of the entire relay. This work required more wires to be lifted and the relay to be replaced by removing it from the DIN rail, a plastic snap rail channel that served as a snap-in mounting location for several side by side relays in very close proximity.

Although the PCIS relay work window had been extended, operations personnel placed SDC in service at 8:49 am on October 28, 2016. Subsequently, during replacement of the PCIS-REL-K27 relay at 9:24 am, the action of installing the new relay onto the shared plastic DIN rail disturbed the mounting rail in a manner that caused contact on an adjacent relay, PCIS-REL-K30, to open. This actuation caused an SDC isolation valve to close and tripped the running RHR A pump. Operations personnel declared the RHR A SDC subsystem inoperable and entered technical specification (TS) Limiting Condition for Operation (LCO) 3.9.7, RHR High Water Level, Conditions A and C.

ADHR remained in service throughout the event and the plant remained aligned for natural circulation. Because the alternate cooling methods remained available and in service, there was no notable increase in RPV temperature, and as a result, there was minimal impact to plant operations.

The licensee initiated a root cause evaluation to review the cause of the event. The licensee determined that the root cause of the event was that the station did not identify the risk from mechanical agitation during PCIS relay installation; and therefore, the risk was not evaluated or mitigated. Specifically, the licensee determined that the risk of jarring the common DIN rail mounting was not recognized and the adjacent SDC relay was not protected; as a result, relay work was allowed to continue after SDC was returned to service. In addition, the relay work was not adequately coordinated by operations and outage control center personnel. Specifically, neither the shift manager nor the operations outage control center manager was aware that PCIS relay work was continuing when they gave permission to return SDC to service.

As a result of these breakdowns, the licensee took corrective actions to change procedures to prevent work near SDC relays and to protect the associated relays when SDC was required to be in service during outages.

The inspectors reviewed the licensees root cause evaluation, observed licensee response at the time of the event, reviewed the completed work orders, and evaluated the adequacy of licensee procedures. The inspectors noted that the licensee did not identify any similar events where agitation of a DIN rail had caused unexpected actuations of adjacent relays. The inspectors reviewed Station Procedure 7.3.16, Low Voltage Relay Removal and Installation, Revision 22. This procedure drives an intrusive analysis of the electrical circuits associated with any relay work that is being planned.

The inspectors noted that Step 2.3 of this procedure stated, the EP&C Relay Component Engineer and Shift Manager shall ensure interaction with other systems or equipment is fully researched prior to installing jumpers, pulling fuses, lifting leads, or removing relay. In addition, this procedure drove engineering personnel to perform a walk-down of the relay and to fill out a data sheet documenting impacts and concerns associated with work on the relay in question. This procedure also allows the engineer to use previously existing data sheets, rather than filling out new ones.

During their review, the inspectors noted that the licensees evaluation did not recognize the importance of Step 3.2.1.1(f) of Station Procedure 7.3.16. Specifically, Step 3.2.1.1(f) stated, Evaluate potential impact on adjacent components or components that share a common mounting when subject relay is removed/installed.

The inspectors noted that this was a protected step, associated with a commitment for corrective actions from a previously occurring station event. The inspectors followed the commitment reference and discovered that the corrective action had come as a result of an event that was almost identical to the October 28, 2016, event. Specifically, Licensee Event Report (LER) 1999-006, Inadvertent Half-Group VII Isolation Due to Deenergization of a Relay, documented a partial Group VII isolation event that was the result of a relay actuation that occurred when workers snapped an adjacent relay into the common DIN rail. The inspectors determined that this previous occurrence and the apparent inadequate Procedure 7.3.16 step should have been evaluated during the performance of the root cause analysis for causal implications. In addition, the inspectors were concerned with the narrow scope of the licensees extent of condition review. The inspectors observed that the evaluation should have reviewed potential bumping hazards for other unprotected SDC components, potential bumping hazards for relays mounted on metal mounting rails, potential hazards to other primary containment isolation system (PCIS) relays that werent associated with SDC, and other Maintenance Procedure 7.3.16 data sheets to determine if they inadequately addressed Step 3.2.1.1(f) (since existing data sheets could be reused). Finally, the inspectors observed that the licensees safety culture evaluation failed to review safety culture implications for the contributing cause identified in the root cause analysis, as required by procedure. In response to the inspectors concerns, the licensee generated condition reports and reopened the root cause evaluation to address its weaknesses.

The inspectors concluded that the licensee failed to implement a process of planning, controlling, and executing work activities such that nuclear safety was the overriding priority, including the need for coordination with different work groups or job activities.

Specifically, the licensee did not adequately coordinate work on PCIS-REL-K27, in that, key players in the organization did not maintain awareness of the ongoing work activity when granting permission to return SDC to service. In addition, the licensee did not evaluate the potential impact of the K27 relay work on RHR SDC relay PCIS-REL-K30, which was mounted next to K27 and shared a common mounting rail. As a result, the licensee did not identify the risk of impacts to RHR associated with the work, and while installing the K27 relay and snapping it into the mounting rail, workers caused a momentary actuation of relay K30 and a loss of RHR SDC. The inspectors also observed that the licensee had experienced two inadvertent full and partial Group II (RHR isolation) actuations during the relay work in the weeks and even hours before this event occurred. The inspectors determined that these events should have increased the licensees risk recognition associated with the work and its potential impacts on SDC, and that these events served as missed opportunities for the station to avoid the October 28, 2016, loss of SDC event entirely.

Analysis.

The licensees failure to implement Maintenance Procedure 7.3.16, in violation of Technical Specification 5.4.1.a, was a performance deficiency. The performance deficiency was more than minor, and therefore a finding, because it was associated with the equipment performance attribute of the Initiating Events Cornerstone and affected the associated cornerstone objective to limit the likelihood of those events that upset plant stability and challenge critical safety functions during shutdown operations. Using Inspection Manual Chapter 0609, Appendix G, Attachment 1, Shutdown Operations Significance Process Phase 1 Initial Screening and Characterization of Findings, dated May 9, 2014, the inspectors determined that the finding did not require a quantitative risk assessment because the event occurred when the refuel canal/cavity was flooded.

Therefore, the finding had very low safety significance (Green). The finding had a cross-cutting aspect in the area of human performance associated with work management because the licensee failed to implement a process of planning, controlling, and executing work activities such that nuclear safety was the overriding priority, including the need for coordination with different work groups or job activities. Specifically, the licensee failed to control, execute, and coordinate safety-related primary containment isolation system (PCIS) relay work activities to ensure RHR SDC was not adversely impacted [H.5].

Enforcement.

Technical Specification 5.4.1.a, requires, in part, that procedures shall be established, implemented, and maintained covering the applicable procedures recommended in Appendix A of Regulatory Guide 1.33, Revision 2. Section 9.a of Appendix A to Regulatory Guide 1.33, Revision 2, requires, Procedures for Performing Maintenance. The licensee established Maintenance Procedure 7.3.16, Low Voltage Relay Removal and Installation, Revision 22, to meet the Regulatory Guide 1.33 requirement. Prior to performing relay work, Step 3.2.1.1(f) of Procedure 7.3.16 required engineering personnel to, evaluate the potential impact on adjacent components or components that share a common mounting when the subject relay is removed/installed. Contrary to the above, on October 28, 2016, the licensee failed to implement Procedure 7.3.16 when, prior to work on relay PCIS-REL-K27, engineering personnel did not evaluate the potential impact on adjacent components or components that shared a common mounting when the subject relay was removed or installed.

Specifically, the licensee did not evaluate the potential impact of the K27 relay work on RHR SDC relay PCIS-REL-K30, which was mounted next to K27 and shared a common mounting rail. As a result, the licensee did not identify the risk of impacts to the RHR system associated with the work, and while installing the K27 relay and snapping it into the mounting rail, workers caused a momentary actuation of relay K30 and a loss of RHR SDC. Corrective actions to restore compliance included restoration of RHR SDC, completion of the K27 relay maintenance with RHR SDC out of service, and an outage risk management procedure change that prohibited work on or near RHR SDC relays while the system was required to be in service. Because this violation was of very low safety significance (Green) and was entered into the licensees corrective action program as Condition Report CR-CNS-2016-07645, this violation is being treated as a non-cited violation (NCV) in accordance with Section 2.3.2.a of the NRC Enforcement Policy. (NCV 05000298/2017001-04, Loss of Shutdown Cooling due to Relay Maintenance)

.2 (Closed) Licensee Event Report (LER) 05000298/2016008-00, Purchase and

Installation of Incorrect Actuator Results in a Condition Prohibited by Technical Specifications

a. Inspection Scope

On November 8, 2016, the plant was in Mode 1, at normal operating pressure and temperature, following Refueling Outage (RE) 29, when the licensee commenced reactor core isolation cooling (RCIC) surveillance testing. Shortly after starting the RCIC system, the station operations personnel in the field reported a water leak to the control room. The licensee immediately shut down the RCIC system from the control room, and declared the system inoperable. The licensee identified that the water leak was from a failed RCIC turbine lube oil cooler gasket and a pressure relief valve lifting. During the licensees initial review, the station identified that RCIC pressure control valve, RCIC- AOV-PCV23, was full open causing excessive cooling water pressure to the turbine oil cooler and causing the gasket to fail and the relief valve to open. The licensees examination of RCIC-AOV-PCV23 revealed that the actuator was supplied with a closed mechanical stop instead of the required open mechanical stop when this valve was replaced in RE 29. The licensee initiated a work order to fabricate and install an open mechanical stop for RCIC-AOV-PCV23, and the RCIC system was declared operable after satisfactorily completing post-maintenance testing and turbine lube oil cooler gasket replacement.

The licensee initiated a root cause evaluation (RCE) to determine the cause of the event. The licensee reported this failure under 10 CFR 50.73(a)(2)(i)(B) as a condition prohibited by technical specifications, because the RCIC system was inoperable when the plant entered the mode of applicability (Mode 2 with reactor steam dome pressure >

150 psig). The inspectors reviewed the event, including station logs and technical specification requirements; walked down the affected components; and discussed the events with the licensee. The inspectors also reviewed the RCE, extent of condition and cause reviews, and the corrective actions associated with the event to ensure they were appropriate.

This licensee event report is closed.

b. Findings

Introduction.

The inspectors reviewed a self-revealed, Green, non-cited violation of Technical Specification 3.0.4 for the licensees failure to install the correct reactor core isolation cooling (RCIC) pressure control valve, RCIC-AOV-PCV23, mechanical stop and verify proper operation of the system prior to entering the mode of applicability.

Description.

On November 8, 2016, the plant was in Mode 1, at normal operating pressure and temperature, following Refueling Outage (RE) 29, when the RCIC system failed on demand surveillance testing. During the licensees initial review of the failed surveillance test, the station identified that RCIC-AOV-PCV23 was full open, causing excessive cooling water pressure to the turbine oil cooler, causing the gasket to fail and the relief valve to open. The licensees examination of RCIC-AOV-PCV23 revealed that the actuator was supplied with a closed mechanical stop instead of the required open mechanical stop, when this valve was replaced in RE 29. The licensee initiated a work order to fabricate and install an open mechanical stop for RCIC-AOV-PCV23, and the RCIC system was declared operable after satisfactorily completing post-maintenance testing and turbine lube oil cooler gasket replacement. The licensee entered this deficiency into the corrective action program as Condition Report CR-CNS-2016-08122 and initiated a root cause evaluation (RCE) to investigate this condition.

The RCE concluded that the root cause of this event was that the incorrect air operated valve was purchased because the material master purchase order text and design drawings did not have the required details for RCIC-AOV-PCV23, which required an open mechanical stop. An associated contributing cause was that Station Procedure 7.2.51.1, Air Operator Valve Actuator Setup/Testing, Revision 21, and its attachment, did not provide sufficient direction to set the mechanical stop to ensure the valve would be able to perform its design function. These conditions resulted in the licensee installing RCIC-AOV-PCV23 with the incorrect mechanical stop and failure to verify proper operation of the valve. This resulted in the RCIC system being inoperable when the plant entered the mode of applicability (Mode 2 with reactor steam dome pressure > 150 psig) in violation of Technical Specification 3.0.4. The inspectors determined this issue was self-revealed because the RCIC system failed when required during on demand surveillance testing.

The licensee initiated corrective actions to revise the material master order text, to revise the associated design drawing to reflect an open mechanical stop for RCIC-AOV-PCV23, and to revise Station Procedure 7.2.51.1 to add information on setting open mechanical stops.

Analysis.

The licensees failure to install the correct RCIC pressure control valve, RCIC-AOV-PCV23, mechanical stop and verify proper operation of the system prior to entering the mode of applicability, in violation of Technical Specification 3.0.4, was a performance deficiency. The performance deficiency was determined to be more than minor, and therefore a finding, because it was associated with the design control attribute of the Mitigating Systems Cornerstone and adversely affected the cornerstone objective to ensure availability, reliability, and capability of systems that respond to initiating events. Specifically, the licensee installed RCIC-AOV-PCV23 with the incorrect mechanical stop and proper valve operation was not verified after installation during RE 29, which caused the RCIC system to lose function during surveillance testing. This transient caused a failure of the RCIC turbine lube oil cooler gasket and a RCIC system water leak. Using Inspection Manual Chapter 0609, Appendix A, The Significance Determination Process (SDP) for Findings At-Power, dated June 19, 2012, the inspectors determined that the finding required a detailed risk evaluation because it represented a loss of system and/or function. In the detailed risk evaluation, the analyst assumed the reactor core isolation cooling (RCIC) system was unavailable for 50 hours5.787037e-4 days <br />0.0139 hours <br />8.267196e-5 weeks <br />1.9025e-5 months <br />.

The analyst used the Test/Limited Use Version COOPER-DEESE-HCI03 of the Cooper SPAR model run on SAPHIRE, Version 8.1.5. The analyst updated the initiating event frequencies for transients, losses of condenser heat sink, losses of main feed water, grid related losses of offsite power, and switchyard centered losses of offsite power to the more recent values from the 2014 update to the industry data found in INL/EXT-14-31428, Initiating Event Rates at U.S. Nuclear Power Plants, 1998-2013, Revision 1. From this, the finding was determined to have an increase in core damage frequency of 8.4E-8/year and to be of very low safety significance (Green). Transients, losses of condenser heat sink, and losses of main feed water were the dominant core damage sequences. The automatic depressurization system and the reactor protection system remained to mitigate these sequences. The finding had a cross-cutting aspect in the area of human performance associated with documentation because the licensee failed to create and maintain complete, accurate, and up-to-date documentation associated with RCIC-MOV-PCV23 design drawings and maintenance procedure for setting and testing the mechanical stop [H.7].

Enforcement.

Technical Specification (TS) 3.0.4 requires, in part, that when a limiting condition for operation (LCO) is not met, entry into a mode or other specified condition in the applicability shall only be made when the associated actions to be entered permit continued operation in the mode or other specified condition in the applicability for an unlimited period of time, after performance of a risk assessment addressing inoperable systems and components, or when an allowance is stated. Contrary to the above, on November 8, 2016, with LCO 3.5.3, not met, the station entered into a mode and specified condition in the applicability when the associated actions to be entered did not permit continued operation in the mode and specified condition in the applicability for an unlimited period of time; without performance of a risk assessment addressing inoperable systems and components; and without a stated allowance. Specifically, the licensee transitioned Cooper Nuclear Station into Mode 2 with reactor steam dome pressure > 150 psig with LCO 3.5.3 not met due to the RCIC system being inoperable.

The RCIC system was inoperable since the licensee installed RCIC-AOV-PCV23 with the incorrect mechanical stop, and proper valve operation was not verified after installation during Refueling Outage 29. The immediate corrective actions were to restore RCIC-AOV-PCV23 from having a closed mechanical stop to the required open mechanical stop, and to replace the turbine lube oil gasket to restore operability of the system. Because this violation was of very low safety significance (Green) and was entered into the licensees corrective action program as Condition Report CR-CNS-2016-08122, this violation is being treated as a non-cited violation (NCV)in accordance with Section 2.3.2.a of the NRC Enforcement Policy.

(NCV 05000298/2017001-05, Failure to Install Correct Mechanical Stop and Verify Proper Operation)

These activities constituted completion of two event follow-up samples, as defined in Inspection Procedure 71153.

4OA5 Other Activities

Temporary Instruction 2515/192, Inspection of the Licensees Interim Compensatory Measures Associated with the Open Phase Condition Design Vulnerabilities in Electric Power Systems.

a. Inspection Scope

The objective of this performance based temporary instruction was to verify implementation of interim compensatory measures associated with an open phase condition design vulnerability in electric power systems for operating reactors. The inspectors conducted an inspection to determine if the licensee implemented the following interim compensatory measures. These compensatory measures are to remain in place until permanent automatic detection and protection schemes are installed and declared operable for open phase condition design vulnerability. The inspectors verified the following:

  • The licensee identified and discussed with plant staff the lessons-learned from the open phase condition events at the United States operating plants including the Byron Station open phase condition and its consequences. This included conducting operator training for promptly diagnosing, recognizing consequences, and responding to an open phase condition.
  • The licensee updated plant operating procedures to help operators promptly diagnose and respond to open phase conditions on off-site power sources credited for safe shutdown of the plant.
  • The licensee established and implemented periodic walk-down activities to inspect switchyard and transformer yard equipment such as insulators, disconnect switches, and transmission line and transformer connections associated with the off-site power circuits to detect a visible open phase condition.
  • The licensee ensured that routine maintenance and testing activities on switchyard components have been implemented and maintained. As part of the maintenance and testing activities, the licensee assessed and managed plant risk in accordance with 10 CFR 50.65(a)(4) requirements.

b. Findings

No findings were identified.

4OA6 Meetings, Including Exit

Exit Meeting Summary

On February 9, 2017, the inspector presented the Temporary Instruction 2515/192 inspection results to Mr. D. Buman, Director, Nuclear Safety Assurance, and other members of the licensee staff. The licensee acknowledged the issues presented. No proprietary information was identified.

On April 3, 2017, the inspector conducted a telephonic exit meeting to present the results of the in-office inspection of changes to the licensees emergency plan to Mr. J. Stough, Manager, Emergency Preparedness, and other members of the licensee staff. The licensee acknowledged the issues presented. The licensee confirmed that any proprietary information reviewed by the inspectors had been returned or destroyed.

On April 13, 2017, the inspectors presented the inspection results to Mr. D. Buman, Director, Nuclear Safety Assurance, and other members of the licensee staff. The licensee acknowledged the issues presented. The licensee confirmed that any proprietary information reviewed by the inspectors had been returned or destroyed.

SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION

KEY POINTS OF CONTACT

Licensee Personnel

T. Barker, Manager, Engineering Program and Components
L. Bray, Licensing Specialist
D. Buman, Director, Nuclear Safety Assurance
B. Chapin, Manager, Maintenance
T. Chard, Manager, Quality Assurance
L. Dewhirst, Manager, Corrective Action and Assessment
K. Dia, Director, Engineering
M. Dickerson, Electrical Engineer
T. Forland, Engineer, Licensing
G. Gardner, Engineering Design Manager
D. Goodman, Manager, Operations
K. Higginbotham, Vice President, Chief Nuclear Officer
D. Kimball, Director, Nuclear Oversight
J. Reimers, Manager, System Engineering
J. Shaw, Manager, Licensing
J. Stough, Manager, Emergency Preparedness
C. Sunderman, Manager, Radiation Protection
C. Van Der Kamp, Licensing Technical Specialist

LIST OF ITEMS OPENED, CLOSED, AND DISCUSSED

Opened and Closed

05000298/2017001-01 NCV Failure to Maintain Alternate Shutdown Emergency Procedure (Section 1R04)
05000298/2017001-02 NCV Failure to Identify a Condition Adverse to Quality Associated with the 250 Vdc Electrical System (Section 1R12)
05000298/2017001-03 NCV Failure to Identify a Condition Adverse to Quality (Section 1R15)
05000298/2017001-04 NCV Loss of Shutdown Cooling due to Relay Maintenance (Section 4OA3)
05000298/2017001-05 NCV Failure to Install Correct Mechanical Stop and Verify Proper Operation (Section 4OA3)

Closed

05000298/2016007-00 LER Isolation of Shutdown Cooling due to Relay Maintenance Results in a Loss of Safety Function (Section 4OA3)
05000298/2016008-00 LER Purchase and Installation of Incorrect Actuator Results in a Condition Prohibited by Technical Specifications (Section 4OA3)

Inspection of the Licensees Interim Compensatory Measures 2515/192 TI Associated with the Open Phase Condition Design Vulnerabilities in Electric Power Systems (Section 4OA5)

LIST OF DOCUMENTS REVIEWED