[en] The methodology presented in this report formulates an approach for the optimization of benefits resulting from NRC decision making processes. Recent increases in occupational exposures in nuclear power plants resulting from NRC regulatory practices have led to the questioning by NRC of the overall benefit of specific regulations. The optimization methodology in this report provides a tool for the determination of the cost-benefit of proposed NRC regulations. Detailed methods are presented for the modeling of plant safety systems undergoing inspection, testing, and/or repair. This methodology utilizes dynamic Markov modeling techniques with extensive additional model development associated with operator errors involved in the inspection, test, and repair activities of the plant. Closed form solutions to the Markov models are provided. The report appendix presents the Markov model solution process in detail sufficient for model verification. Other methods necessary for the optimization process are discussed in lesser detail. An application of the methodology dealing with steam generator inspection frequency and steam generator tube rupture events is presented. The example determines the steam generator inspection intervals which minimize expected costs and total expected occupational and public dose