The role of the operating organization in NPP quality assurance

In the USSR, quality assurance problems (planning and systematic implementation of activities) associated with the construction and operation of nuclear power plants are the responsibility of the Ministry of Atomic Energy and Industry. One section of that Ministry fulfils the function of the operating body. Corporations that take part in the activities throughout the various stages of the nuclear power plant life are fully responsible for quality assurance in allocated fields only, while the body operating the plant is responsible for the overall fulfilment of the quality assurance plan at the nuclear power plant. The operating body creates the organizational structure necessary for safe nuclear power plant operation; it procures funds, materials, technical means, standards and other technical documentation; organizes physical protection and fire protection of the plant and selection and training of the operating personnel; and it supervises constantly all activities relevant to the safety aspect and is responsible for them. The results of safety-related inspections are submitted by the plant-operating body to State Surveillance and inspection authorities. The plant-operating body elaborates and, together with State Surveillance bodies, approves methodologies and programmes for the preparation and implementation of training in case of accident, and organizes this training. At present, a nuclear power plant quality assurance programme is being prepared taking into account IAEA and ISO recommendations. (Z.S.). 4 refs