DOE G 151.1-3, Programmatic Elements
Functional areas: Defense Nuclear Facility Safety and Health Requirement, Safety and Security
The Guide provides acceptable methods of meeting the requirements of DOE O 151.1C for programmatic elements that sustain the emergency management program and maintain the readiness of the program to respond to an emergency.
Supersedes DOE G 151.1-1, Volume 5-1, DOE G 151.1-1, Volume 5-2, DOE G 151.1-1, Volume 5-3, DOE G 151.1-1, Volume 5-4, DOE G 151.1-1, Volume 7-1, and DOE G 151.1-1, Volume 7-3. Canceled by DOE G 151.1-1B.
Related To:
Version history and related documents
Supersedes
Earlier documents this one replaced.
- DOE G 151.1-1 V5-4Training and Drills (Jul 11, 2007)
- DOE G 151.1-1 V5-1Program Administration (Jul 11, 2007)
- DOE G 151.1-1 V5-2Standard Format and Content for Emergency Plans (Jul 11, 2007)
- DOE G 151.1-1 V7-3Exercise Controller and Evaluator Manual (Jul 11, 2007)
- DOE G 151.1-1 V7-1Exercises (Jul 11, 2007)
- DOE G 151.1-1 V5-3Emergency Readiness Assurance Plans (ERAPs) (Jul 11, 2007)
- DOE G 151.1-1 V7-2Generic Exercise Objectives (Jul 11, 2007)
Related documents
- DOE G 151.1-2Technical Planning Basis
- DOE G 151.1-5Biosafety Facilities
- DOE G 151.1-1AEmergency Management Fundamentals and the Operational Emergency Base Program
- DOE O 151.1CComprehensive Emergency Management System
- DOE M 151.1-1Power Marketing Administration Emergency Management Program Manual
- DOE G 151.1-4Response Elements
Document text
Text extracted from the attached file. Refer to the original document for the authoritative version.
Section 1
AVAILABLE ONLINE AT: INITIATED BY:
www.directives.doe.gov National Nuclear Security Administration
Office of Emergency Management
DOE G 151.1-3
7-11-07
Programmatic Elements
Emergency Management Guide
[This Guide describes suggested nonmandatory approaches for meeting requirements. Guides
are not requirements documents and are not to be construed as requirements in any audit or
appraisal for compliance with the parent Policy, Order, Notice, or Manual.]
U.S. Department of Energy
Washington, D.C.
NOT MEASUREMENT
SENSITIVE
DOE G 151.1-3 i
7-11-07
DOE G 151.1-3 - Programmatic Elements
Table of Contents
1. PROGRAM ADMINISTRATION.................................................................................... 1-1
1.1 Introduction......................................................................................................................1-1
1.2 General Approach ............................................................................................................1-1
1.3 Planning Responsibilities.................................................................................................1-4
1.3.1 Technical Planning Basis .....................................................................................1-4
1.3.2 Program Implementation......................................................................................1-5
1.3.3 Documentation .....................................................................................................1-5
1.3.4 Resource Management .........................................................................................1-6
1.3.5 Policy Issues.........................................................................................................1-7
1.4 Preparedness Responsibilities..........................................................................................1-7
1.4.1 Program Planning.................................................................................................1-7
1.4.2 Program Implementation....................................................................................1-10
1.4.3 Documentation ...................................................................................................1-11
1.4.4 Policy Issues.......................................................................................................1-11
1.5 Readiness Assurance Responsibilities ...........................................................................1-12
1.5.1 Program Plan......................................................................................................1-12
1.5.2 Program Implementation....................................................................................1-12
1.5.3 Documentation ...................................................................................................1-13
1.6 Response Responsibilities..............................................................................................1-13
1.6.1 Programmatic Activities.....................................................................................1-13
1.6.2 Documentation ...................................................................................................1-15
1.7 Document Control..........................................................................................................1-15
1.8 Classified/Sensitive Information....................................................................................1-16
Section 2
APPENDIX A. Standard Format and Content of Emergency Plans for
Hazardous Material Programs...............................................A-1
2. TRAINING AND DRILLS ................................................................................................ 2-1
2.1 Introduction......................................................................................................................2-1
2.2 General Approach ............................................................................................................2-1
2.3 Training Program Management .......................................................................................2-2
2.3.1 Program Plan........................................................................................................2-3
2.3.2 Schedule .............................................................................................................2-4
2.3.3 Program Assessments...........................................................................................2-4
2.3.4 Trainer/Instructor Qualifications and Evaluations ...............................................2-4
2.3.5 Course Documentation.........................................................................................2-6
2.3.6 Emergency Responder Training Records.............................................................2-6
2.4 Training Needs Assessment.............................................................................................2-7
2.4.1 Training for Onsite Emergency Responders ........................................................2-7
2.4.2 Training for Offsite Emergency Responders .......................................................2-8
2.5 Specific Training Requirements ......................................................................................2-9
2.5.1 Regulatory Requirements.....................................................................................2-9
2.5.2 Site-Specific Training ........................................................................................2-10
2.5.3 First Responder Training....................................................................................2-10
2.5.4 Offsite Responder Training................................................................................2-11
2.5.5 Training on Change............................................................................................2-11
ii DOE G 151.1-3
7-11-07
2.5.6 Operational Emergency Hazardous Material Program ......................................2-11
2.6 Training Development ...................................................................................................2-13
2.6.1 Training Goals and Objectives...........................................................................2-13
2.6.2 Training Delivery ...............................................................................................2-13
2.6.3 Developing Course Materials.............................................................................2-14
2.6.4 Test Methodology ..............................................................................................2-15
2.6.5 Course Evaluation ..............................................................................................2-16
2.6.6 Remedial Training..............................................................................................2-16
Section 3
2.7 Training Delivery...........................................................................................................2-16
2.8 Drills ..............................................................................................................................2-17
3. EXERCISES........................................................................................................................ 3-1
3.1 Introduction......................................................................................................................3-1
3.2 General Approach ............................................................................................................3-2
3.3 Exercise Program.............................................................................................................3-3
3.4 Types of Exercises ...........................................................................................................3-4
3.4.1 Discussion-Based Exercises.................................................................................3-5
3.4.2 Operations-Based Exercises.................................................................................3-7
3.5 DOE/NNSA Exercise Requirements ...............................................................................3-9
3.6 Exercise Planning ..........................................................................................................3-11
3.6.1 Exercise Planning Team.....................................................................................3-12
3.6.2 Exercise Planning Functions ..............................................................................3-13
3.6.3 Exercise Planning Team Position Descriptions .................................................3-15
3.6.4 Exercise Planning Meetings/Conferences..........................................................3-16
3.6.5 Exercise Planning Schedule ...............................................................................3-20
3.7 Exercise Documentation ................................................................................................3-21
3.7.1 Situation Manual (SITMAN) .............................................................................3-22
3.7.2 Exercise Plan (EXPLAN) ..................................................................................3-22
3.7.3 Controller and Evaluator Documentation ..........................................................3-28
3.8 Exercise Objectives........................................................................................................3-31
3.8.1 Developing Exercise Objectives ........................................................................3-31
3.8.2 Basis for Exercise Objectives.............................................................................3-33
3.9 Exercise Preparation ......................................................................................................3-34
3.9.1 Controller and Evaluator Training .....................................................................3-34
3.9.2 Responder and Observer Briefings ....................................................................3-35
3.9.3 Exercise Setup....................................................................................................3-36
Section 4
3.10 Conduct of the Exercise .................................................................................................3-36
3.10.1 Roles of Participants ..........................................................................................3-36
3.10.2 Conduct ...........................................................................................................3-38
3.11 Exercise Evaluation .......................................................................................................3-40
3.11.1 Planning and Organization of the Evaluation ....................................................3-41
3.11.2 Evaluation Process .............................................................................................3-44
3.11.3 Critiques ...........................................................................................................3-46
3.12 Follow-up Activities ......................................................................................................3-47
3.12.1 Corrective Actions and Improvement Items ......................................................3-47
3.12.2 Maintaining Records ..........................................................................................3-47
APPENDIX B. Controller and Evaluator Manual.......................................... B-1
DOE G 151.1-3 iii (and iv)
7-11-07
4. READINESS ASSURANCE.............................................................................................. 4-1
4.1 Introduction......................................................................................................................4-1
4.2 General Approach ............................................................................................................4-2
4.3 Readiness Assurance Program.........................................................................................4-3
4.3.1 Evaluation Program..............................................................................................4-4
4.3.2 Improvement Program .........................................................................................4-8
4.3.3 Documentation of Readiness Assurance ............................................................4-12
4.3.4 Management Commitment.................................................................................4-13
4.4 Evaluations.....................................................................................................................4-15
4.4.1 Emergency Management Program Elements .....................................................4-18
4.4.2 Program and Exercise Evaluations.....................................................................4-23
4.4.3 Evaluation Criteria .............................................................................................4-25
4.4.4 Findings ...........................................................................................................4-26
4.4.5 Generic Faults ....................................................................................................4-28
4.4.6 Program Readiness.............................................................................................4-31
4.5 Evaluation Process .........................................................................................................4-31
4.5.1 Data Sources ......................................................................................................4-33
4.5.2 Evaluation Results..............................................................................................4-39
Section 5
4.6 Self-Assessments ...........................................................................................................4-41
4.7 Post-Emergency Evaluation...........................................................................................4-43
4.8 Performance Indicators ..................................................................................................4-45
4.8.1 General Characteristics of Performance Indicators............................................4-46
4.8.2 Emergency Management Performance Indicators .............................................4-49
4.8.3 DOE/NNSA Framework and Performance Indicators .......................................4-53
APPENDIX C. Emergency Readiness Assurance Plans ................................ C-1
APPENDIX D. Evaluation Criteria ................................................................D-1
APPENDIX E. Systematic Approach for Performing Self-Assessments of
Emergency Management Programs ...................................... E-1
List of Tables
Table 3-1. Sample Planning Schedule for a Site-level Annual Exercise ................................................3-21
Table 4-1. Focus and Limitations of Evaluation Tools.............................................................................4-8
DOE G 151.1-3 1-1
7-11-07
1. PROGRAM ADMINISTRATION
1.1 Introduction
The purpose of this chapter is to assist Department of Energy (DOE) and National
Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) field elements in complying with the
DOE O 151.1C (the Order) requirement to provide effective organizational management
and administrative control of an emergency management program by establishing and
maintaining authorities and resources necessary to plan, develop, implement, and
maintain a viable, integrated, and coordinated program. Each manager or administrator
of a DOE-, NNSA- and/or DOE/NNSA contractor-operated facility/site or activity
subject to this Order shall designate an individual to administer the emergency
management program. This individual shall develop and maintain the emergency plan,
develop the (Emergency Readiness Assurance Plan (ERAP) and its annual updates,
develop and conduct training and exercise programs, coordinate assessment activities,
develop related documentation, develop a system to track and verify correction of
findings or lessons learned, and coordinate emergency resources. Responsible
administrators of emergency management programs should use the guidance in this
chapter to define responsibilities and implement functions to ensure and maintain
effective emergency planning, preparedness, readiness assurance, and response
activities.
This chapter is designed primarily for facilities/sites or activities that are required to
implement an Operational Emergency Hazardous Material Program and is directed at
operations and emergency management staff at Field Elements and operating contractor
organizations responsible for DOE and NNSA facilities/sites or activities.
This guide cancels and supersedes the following.
• DOE G 151.1-1, Vol. 5, Ch. 1, Program Administration, dated 8-21-97
• DOE G 151.1-1, Vol. 5, Ch. 2, Standard Format and Content for Emergency
Plans, dated 8-21-97
• DOE G 151.1-1, Vol. 5, Ch. 3, Emergency Readiness Assurance Plans (ERAPs),
dated 8-21-97
• DOE G 151.1-1, Vol. 5, Ch. 4, Training and Drills, dated 8-21-97
• DOE G 151.1-1, Vol. 7, Ch. 1, Development and Conduct of Exercises, dated 8-
21-97
Section 6
• DOE G 151.1-1, Vol. 7, Ch. 3, Exercise Controller and Evaluator Manual, dated
8-21-97
1-2 DOE G 151.1-3
7-11-07
1.2 General Approach
Management and Operating (M&O) contractor managers/administrators at each
DOE/NNSA facility and site retain overall authority and responsibility for emergency
management at their respective levels. However, responsibility for and authority over the
development and day-to-day operation and maintenance of the program should be
delegated to a specifically designated emergency management program administrator,
with responsibility and authority to ensure:
• Development and maintenance of the Hazards Surveys and Emergency Planning
Hazards Assessments (EPHAs), emergency plans and procedures, and related and
supporting documentation
• Development and conduct of training and exercise programs, and development,
conduct, and coordination of the readiness assurance program and activities
[e.g., evaluations (internal and external)]
• Coordination of emergency resources by identifying resource needs and ensuring the
availability of adequate resources
• Development and submittal of the annual ERAP
• Interface with State and local emergency response elements, other Federal agencies,
and private institutions providing emergency medical and other emergency support to
the site
The designated administrator has authority and resources in accordance with assigned
responsibilities and has access to top-level management. The administrator is responsible
for implementing a facility/site- or activity-specific comprehensive emergency
management program based upon a graded approach that is commensurate with hazards.
The administration of programmatic activities (i.e., planning, preparedness, readiness
assurance, and programmatic response element) activities is established and maintained
through rigorous adherence to a formal process. Review and approval processes are
established and documented to ensure that the planning and development of components
of the emergency management program receive sufficient oversight by staff,
management, and DOE/NNSA elements. To ensure that programmatic activities are
initiated, completed, and periodically repeated in a timely and efficient manner,
reasonable schedules are established for planning (e.g., document submission, reviews,
approvals), preparedness (e.g., training), readiness assurance (e.g., self-assessments), and
programmatic response element [e.g., maintaining Emergency Response Organization
(ERO) assignment roster] functions.
Adequate resources are identified and obtained to ensure that the program is ready to
respond. Financial resource requirements are identified and budgeted. Response facility
needs are identified and locations established. Equipment requirements are identified;
DOE G 151.1-3 1-3
7-11-07
supplies of required equipment are monitored and acquired as needed. Personnel
requirements are identified and addressed.
An emergency management document control system that meets industry standards for
document review, approval, distribution, and change control is established or emergency
management documents are controlled under an existing site-wide document control
system. An auditable administrative program for ensuring the availability of vital records
(i.e., essential to the continued functioning or reconstitution of an organization during or
after an emergency), regardless of media, is established and reliably maintained
(Cf. DOE O 243.2). If classified information or materials are being used or generated,
effective security procedures and controls are implemented, and security reviews are
conducted.
Section 7
Administration of an emergency management program can vary considerably from site to
site depending on characteristics of the site and program, including, size, geographical
layout, hazards, administrative structure of the M&O contractor, and structure and
constituents of the ERO.
A small site with few facilities and hazards and a simple response structure may have one
program administrator responsible for management and control of the program, who may
have direct responsibility for various aspects of the detailed planning, implementation,
and maintenance functions and activities. At a larger site with many facilities, more
extensive hazards, and a more complicated ERO, the program administrator may delegate
detailed programmatic responsibilities to site-level and facility-level administrators,
retaining overall responsibility for site-wide program administration and control.
Information and data that the designated site administrator can track and oversee depends
primarily on the size of the site and scope of the emergency management program. With
only a few facilities, the program administrator at a small site is familiar with details of
the site-wide program, as well as each individual facility program. The administrator at a
large site may only be personally cognizant of the larger aspects of each facility program
(e.g., percentage of each facility ERO trained versus the detailed data on who is trained).
On a multiple-facility site, the site emergency management program administrator is
responsible for tasks similar to those of the facility program administrator (or for all
tasks, if the sole administrator). In addition, the site program administrator is responsible
for review and oversight of emergency management activities of facility emergency
management program administration. The site program administrator must prepare
guidance for facility emergency planners to ensure an effective, integrated site program is
achieved when the facility capabilities are activated for a coordinated response.
The program administrator's job is to ensure the emergency management program is
developed and maintained - not necessarily to perform all these tasks or track/monitor all
activities personally. Emergency management authority may be delegated to subordinate
administrators responsible for various aspects of the program (e.g., exercises, training,
plans and procedures). The designated emergency management program administrator
has ultimate responsibility for ensuring that requirements of the Departmental emergency
1-4 DOE G 151.1-3
7-11-07
management-related policies and Orders are met. The program administrator coordinates
with other site groups responsible for implementing various aspects of emergency
preparedness and response (e.g., Health Physicists, Industrial Hygienists, Medical, Public
Affairs, Security, Operations, and Engineering).
The general approach in this chapter focuses on functions or activities, specific
responsibilities, and documentation that are expected to be accomplished at any DOE or
NNSA site in order to effectively manage and administer an emergency management
program. At a site with a single site administrator or at one with multiple facility/area
administrators, the same management and administrative control is required to assure that
emergency response capabilities are maintained and are ready to respond.
Section 8
In the following sections, general responsibilities of program administration are discussed
in the context of the key activities of an emergency management program: planning,
preparedness, readiness assurance, and response.
1.3 Planning Responsibilities
As indicated in the Order, emergency planning includes “the identification of hazards
and threats, hazard mitigation, the development and preparation of emergency plans and
procedures, and the identification of personnel and resources needed for an effective
response.” In the following sections, the responsibilities of program administration with
respect to emergency management planning activities are divided according to the
following topics: technical planning basis, program implementation, documentation,
resource management, and policy issues.
1.3.1 Technical Planning Basis
The primary responsibility of the emergency management program administrator(s) is the
establishment and implementation of the Comprehensive Emergency Management
System. This involves the establishment of an Operational Emergency Base Program
that coordinates and integrates the emergency planning and preparedness requirements of
applicable Federal, Tribal, State, and local laws, regulations, and ordinances, and other
Orders and standards of performance. As warranted, the Base Program is expanded to
implement additional emergency management requirements of an Operational
Emergency Hazardous Material Program, if hazardous materials pose a major threat to
the health and safety of workers and the public.
The Hazards Survey and EPHA (if required) are the technical planning basis for
establishing the scope of the facility/site- or activity-level emergency management
program. Development of the Hazards Surveys and EPHA is often a complex and multi-
disciplinary activity involving a number of technical skills and facility/site or activity
organizations, coordinated by the emergency management program administrator(s). The
program administrator(s) ensures that the proper technical staff are assigned to the efforts
[e.g., health physicists when radioactive materials are involved; industrial hygienists to
address toxic chemicals; meteorologists; subject matter experts (SMEs) in the transport
and dispersion of hazardous materials; operations personnel; security specialists; etc.].
DOE G 151.1-3 1-5
7-11-07
A key responsibility of program administrator(s) is to ensure that the technical planning
basis (i.e., Hazards Surveys and EPHAs) is regularly maintained and reflects the current
operations and hazards associated with the facility/site or activity. The appropriate
method is dependent on the specific facility or site programs established on the site
[e.g., hazardous materials inventory control systems, Integrated Safety Management
Systems (ISMS)] that can be utilized to achieve emergency management objectives.
1.3.2 Program Implementation
Using the results and conclusions of the technical planning basis, the program
administrator(s) coordinates the development of the emergency plan(s) and the
implementing procedures for the Base Program and, as required, the Hazardous Material
Program and ensures that they are commensurate with the hazards on the facility/site. As
with the Hazards Survey and EPHA efforts, this activity may require involvement of
personnel from a variety of technical areas and facility/site organizations.
Section 9
The program administrator(s) ensures that emergency plans and implementing procedures
are coordinated with all involved site and facility response elements, integrated for site-
wide consistency, and in accordance with Departmental policies. Emergency
management plans are developed for Base Program Facilities, which must address the
minimum Base Program requirements, and for facilities requiring a Hazardous Material
Program, whose requirements are seamlessly integrated with Base Program requirements.
Coordination and cooperation of tenant facilities (if any) with the site organization in
programmatic and response activities should be described in the emergency plans.
The program administrator(s) ensures that emergency plans and procedures have the
following characteristics:
• Document the emergency management program, including provisions for response to
an Operational Emergency (OE) and procedures to describe how the emergency plan
will be implemented.
• Clearly state roles, responsibilities, and requirements associated with program
administration, EROs, individual positions, operations, and interfaces.
• Describe the integration and coordination of the emergency management program
with the DOE/NNSA ISMS.
• Are compliant with the requirements of the National Response Plan (NRP) and the
National Incident Management System (NIMS).
1.3.3 Documentation
Documentation of the technical planning basis (i.e., Hazards Surveys and EPHAs) is an
essential component of an emergency management program. It represents the technical
information related to hazards on the facility/site or activity, methods and assumptions
that form the foundation of the program, and documented evidence that responsible
1-6 DOE G 151.1-3
7-11-07
emergency management planners understand the facility/site- or activity-specific hazards.
Existing hazardous material databases and safety documentation are monitored to ensure
that Hazards Surveys and EPHAs represent the current status of hazards and operations at
the facility/site or activity.
The program administrator(s) is responsible for ensuring that emergency plans and
procedures are developed, verified, validated, reviewed periodically, updated as
necessary, and that the program receives an appropriate level of oversight. This includes
providing direction and guidance for conducting and documenting reviews, assessments,
and approvals to ensure they are consistent, correct, up-to-date, and complete. Program
administrators ensure that reasonable schedules are established and SMEs are made
available to provide competent reviews and evaluations.
Appendix A contains an outline and recommended content for an emergency plan for a
facility/site required to have a Hazardous Material Program.
1.3.4 Resource Management
Emergency management programs require resources to function effectively. Emergency
management programs are developed based on the technical planning basis, four
programmatic and ten response program elements. Each program element requires
financial, material, and human resources to develop and maintain the program.
• Financial resources. The program administrator(s) tracks the financial resources
allocated for their emergency management programs, including costs of facilities,
equipment needed to respond to emergencies, training programs, drills and exercises,
and all related personnel costs. Annual budgets are prepared, based on program
needs identified through the readiness assurance process. The program
administrator(s) provides justification for budget requests and acts as an advocate for
needed resources. (Cf. DOE Order 226.1, Implementation of Department of Energy
Oversight Policy, for possible additional sources of information regarding the
identification of program needs.)
Section 10
• Emergency facilities and equipment requirements. Changes in Hazards Surveys
and EPHAs and the results of program and exercise evaluations and self-assessments
may identify needed modifications and improvements that necessitate revising or
updating facilities or equipment.
• Personnel requirements. Program and exercise evaluations, as well as the self-
assessment process, may identify additional personnel needs. These requirements
should also be documented so that additional resources can be allocated.
In summary, the program administrator(s) is responsible for ensuring: adequate resources
are identified and obtained to ensure that the program is ready to respond; financial
resource requirements are identified and budgeted; facilities and equipment requirements
are identified, monitored, and acquired; and personnel requirements are identified and
DOE G 151.1-3 1-7
7-11-07
addressed. Resource needs (including personnel, facilities and equipment, and financial)
are identified and justified in the annual ERAP.
1.3.5 Policy Issues
The emergency plan and associated procedures, as well as supporting planning
documentation (e.g., EPHAs), must comply with DOE/NNSA policy as contained in
DOE O 151.1C, Comprehensive Emergency Management System. A companion
Emergency Management Guide (EMG), DOE G 151.1-series, provides guidance for
implementing the Order requirements and represents a source for interpreting the intent
of the requirements in the Order. The program administrator(s) is responsible for
ensuring that all of the emergency management program elements are consistent with
Order requirements, including both prescriptive requirements as well as broadly stated
and general performance goals found in the EMG. Plans must also be fully compliant
with the requirements of the NRP and NIMS.
Examples of policy issues that should be monitored include:
• The Order contains no prescriptive requirements for performing EPHAs. However,
the EMG provides sufficient guidance for developing an EPHA that satisfies the
intent of the Order (e.g., a spectrum of events analyzed, including beyond-design-
basis events, identification of emergency recognition indicators).
• The emergency plans and associated procedures for consequence assessments and
protective actions are consistent with the Order requirements in terms of the
components (and phases) of the assessment process and Protective Action Criteria
(PAC) selected for triggering protective actions.
• Prescriptive times for emergency notifications are given in the Order and must be
followed in the facility/site and activity procedures.
• ERO training requirements (i.e., initial and refresher training) are given in the Order.
1.4 Preparedness Responsibilities
As indicated in the Order, emergency preparedness includes “. . . the acquisition and
maintenance of resources, and the conduct of training, drills, and exercises.” In the next
four sections, the responsibilities of program administration with respect to emergency
preparedness activities are divided according to program plans, program implementation,
documentation, and policy issues.
1.4.1 Program Planning
Training and Drills. DOE/NNSA emergency management training and drill programs
ensure that personnel are prepared to respond to, manage, mitigate, and recover from
emergencies associated with DOE/NNSA facilities/sites and activities. Training
1-8 DOE G 151.1-3
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Section 11
programs can include a variety of instruction methods, such as classroom instruction,
computer-based or web-based coursework, and hands-on training and drill activities.
General training for employee response, required as part of the Base Program, may be
included as part of an employer's General Employee Training (GET) program. This
program may include emergency awareness, warnings and alarms, evacuation and
accountability, and first aid. Hazardous Material Programs have additional training
requirements for developing and maintaining specific emergency response capabilities
for all personnel identified as members of their EROs. The training program should be
commensurate with the hazards identified in the EPHA.
The program administrator(s) must ensure the development and coordination of training
program activities to prevent conflict with other activities and to ensure that resources are
available. In larger facility/site programs, there may be an individual assigned to be the
manager of the training program(s). In smaller programs, the designated site emergency
management program administrator(s) may be responsible for all aspects of the training
program. The program administrator should also ensure a formal training plan [cf.
DOE G 151.1-3, Chapter 2] is developed that describes program goals and objectives,
organizational responsibilities, resources, and planned activities.
The administration of training and drills programs should include functions to:
• Ensure that a plan is developed and maintained describing and documenting the
training and drills program.
• Ensure a comprehensive and coordinated program of training and drills for the
identified ERO, both primary and alternate members.
• Establish training requirements for each position in the facility/site- or activity-
specific ERO.
• Ensure a coordinated program for all responders, both initial training, and annual
refresher training based on the plan and procedures for that emergency management
program.
• Identify and coordinate adequate resources for training program implementation,
including facilities, equipment, budget, etc.
• Ensure the integration of GET in the Base Program and training programs
necessitated by the DOE/NNSA Hazardous Material Program.
• Ensure the training program adequately addresses each Response Element of the
facility/site or activity emergency management programs.
• Ensure that the program plan provides for demonstrations of proficiency following
training for ERO positions.
DOE G 151.1-3 1-9
7-11-07
• Identify training needs and provide for development, scheduling and delivery of
training activities.
• Establish qualifications for the training staff for each training module.
• Ensure that drills provide practical, hands-on training and use realistic situations and
scenarios; ensure they are coordinated with site groups, such as Health Physicists,
Industrial Hygienists, Medical, Public Affairs, Security, etc.
Exercises. Emergency management exercises are formal, evaluated demonstrations of
the integrated response capabilities of an emergency management program. Exercises are
conducted to validate the response program elements of an emergency management
program. Exercises should be realistic simulations of potential facility/site or activity
emergencies. They may vary significantly in size and complexity to achieve their
respective purposes. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) exercise methodology
refers to these evaluated demonstrations as discussion-based or operations-based
exercises (cf. Chapter 3 of DOE G 151.1-3).
Section 12
Exercise-specific objectives are used to establish the exercise scope, specify the
emergency response functions to be demonstrated, identify the extent of organizations/
personnel participating, and identify the breadth and depth of exercise activities to be
accomplished or simulated. Typically, not all emergency management program elements
are demonstrated in each exercise. The program administrator(s) ensures that a
systematic approach is used, with emphasis on participation and coordination among the
members of the EROs, to develop an exercise plan to ensure that all elements of
facility/site and activity programs are exercised and validated over a multi-year period.
Coordination of exercises is particularly important at sites with multiple, integrated
facility emergency management programs, where response resources are shared, and
efficiency in scheduling and conducting exercises is paramount.
The administration of exercise programs should include functions to:
• Ensure a formal exercise program to validate all response elements over a five-year
period, in accordance with DOE O 151.1C.
• Ensure each exercise has specific objectives keyed to the emergency plan and
procedures.
• Ensure that exercises are evaluated, including a critique process to gather and
document observations of the participants.
• Ensure that a system is in place to track lessons-learned and corrective actions
resulting from the evaluation of exercises.
• Ensure, at a minimum, the conduct of building evacuation exercises consistent with
Federal regulations, local ordinances, or National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
Standards.
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• Ensure tests of communications systems annually, or as often as needed, to ensure
information can be efficiently exchanged with response organizations off site, and at
DOE/NNSA field element and Headquarters (HQ)-levels.
1.4.2 Program Implementation
Training and Drills. The emergency management program administrator(s) has the
responsibility for the conduct of the training program, including the scheduling of drills,
based on the plans and procedures developed for the specific program. Administration of
the training and drills program implementation should include functions to:
• Ensure training and periodic drills are scheduled, conducted, monitored, and
documented.
• Ensure coordination of training and drills at sites with multiple facilities.
• Ensure auditable training and drill records are developed, maintained, and updated.
• Ensure a system is in place to track the development and implementation of lessons-
learned from training and drills and promote program improvements.
• Conduct periodic (training program) self-assessments, including evaluating
instruction and reviewing (training) materials.
• Ensure drills provide supervised, “hands-on” training for members of EROs.
• Ensure emergency preparedness training is provided to all workers who may be
required to take protective actions.
• Ensure emergency-related training on facility/site conditions and hazards is made
available/offered to offsite response organizations that may need to respond onsite.
• Maintain access to a qualified training staff.
Exercises. For effective conduct of the exercise program, the administrator(s) must
ensure that:
• Each facility exercises its emergency response capability annually in a facility
operations-based exercise.
Section 13
• Each site exercises its site-level ERO elements and resources, as well as its integrated
emergency response capability, at least annually in a site operations-based exercise.
For multiple-facility sites, this site-wide exercise will be rotated among the facilities.
• Offsite response organizations are invited to participate in the annual site-wide
exercise once every three years. Site-wide exercises that include offsite participation
are referred to as full-participation operations-based exercises.
DOE G 151.1-3 1-11
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• The annual site-wide exercise is a full-participation operations-based exercise at least
every third year, if offsite response organizations agree to participate.
• The evaluation of exercises conducted by the sites and facilities is accomplished by
knowledgeable, independent organization(s) whose staff displays familiarity with
responder organizations, functions, and procedures.
• Auditable exercise records are developed, maintained, and updated.
• Corrective actions items, identified as a result of the evaluation and critique process,
are incorporated into the emergency management program.
• A system is in place to track the development and implementation of lessons-learned
from exercises and promote program improvements.
1.4.3 Documentation
Training and Drills. The training program plan should be documented and training
materials archived. Training and drill records enable the emergency management
program administrator(s) to determine the types of training to be scheduled, the numbers
of people to be trained, the specific individuals to be trained, and the type and quantity of
resources that are needed to conduct the training and drills. Scores on training validation
tests and performance during drills should also be recorded. The training records provide
a means for verifying qualification requirements for ERO participation.
Lessons-learned from training and drill sessions are recorded and correlated with exercise
evaluations, and other readiness assurance activities to determine additional training
program needs.
Exercises. A complete, documented operations-based exercise package [i.e., an Exercise
Plan (EXPLAN), as described in DOE G 151.1-3, Chapter 3] should be produced for
each annual site-level exercise. Facility-level exercises can be accomplished with an
exercise package that contains only the essential elements that are required to actually
conduct the exercise. Exercise participation records enable the emergency management
administrator(s) to ensure that individual members of the ERO are given the opportunity
to demonstrate their proficiency annually. An exercise report [i.e., After Action Report
(AAR)] should be produced following the exercise that provides an account of exercise
control, player performance, and self-assessment evaluation findings.
1.4.4 Policy Issues
Training and Drills. Policy issues related to training and drills will focus on the
adequacy of the training to prepare ERO members for their respective response tasks.
The Order requires a coordinated program of training and drills for developing and
maintaining ERO position skills, including initial and refresher training. The
administrator(s) are responsible for ensuring that the training matches the skills required
for the specific ERO positions.
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Section 14
Exercises. In addition to frequency requirements for conducting the exercises, the
administrator must ensure that the scopes of facility- and site-level operations-based
exercises match the intent of the Order. Also, the exercise program should include
facilities participating in the site-level exercise on a rotating basis and all of the
emergency management program elements validated over a multi-year basis.
1.5 Readiness Assurance Responsibilities
As indicated in the Order, emergency readiness assurance includes “. . . evaluations
(assessments) and documentation to ensure stated emergency response capabilities are
sufficient to implement emergency plans.” In the next three sections, the responsibilities
of the program administrator(s) with respect to emergency readiness assurance activities
will be divided according to the following topics: program plan, program
implementation, and documentation.
1.5.1 Program Plan
Readiness assurance provides a framework and associated tools to assure emergency
plans, implementing procedures and resources are sufficiently maintained, exercised and
evaluated; and appropriate, timely improvements are made in response to identified
needs. The framework consists of evaluations, improvements, and documentation.
Emergency management administrator(s) should develop a readiness assurance plan that
consists of evaluations (e.g., internal and external program evaluations, exercise
evaluations, performance tests of single response tasks, tabletop tests of decision-making)
and a real-time improvement system to ensure that findings from all evaluations
(including self-assessments) result in corrective actions that are implemented in the
program and are verified and validated. In addition, the administrator(s) should institute
a lessons learned program to take advantage of lessons, not only from DOE/NNSA, but
also from other Federal (e.g., DHS) and commercial activities performing similar tasks.
1.5.2 Program Implementation
To assure a quality emergency management program, persons with knowledge of the
program or response activity being assessed should conduct an internal assessment of all
aspects of a facility or site emergency management program annually. These
assessments will be the basis for improvements, which should be integrated into the
emergency management program. The site emergency management program
administrator(s) should coordinate the scheduling of evaluations and assessments by
external organizations to minimize impacts and maximize benefits. Evaluation schedules
shall be forwarded to the Program Office and HQ Associate Administrator of Emergency
Operations to ensure maximum coordination. The emergency management program
administrator(s) should coordinate the response to emergency management evaluation
findings.
The emergency management program administrator should maintain a root cause
investigation and corrective action program that establishes and documents an integrated
site program for corrective actions, including tracking corrective actions, and validating
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the adequacy of corrective actions resulting from the annual assessments. The program
should also include specific findings and lessons learned from training, drills, exercises,
and particularly those from actual responses and self-assessments, even though such
findings may not have the same visibility and urgency as those associated with external
oversight. Site emergency management program administrators should maintain an open
door policy for employee concerns regarding emergency management.
Section 15
1.5.3 Documentation
The emergency management program administrator ensures the timely preparation of
facility ERAP elements for inclusion in the site ERAP. The contributions to the site
ERAP are made on an annual basis and reflect current and projected facility emergency
management program capabilities, resources, and requirements (e.g., personnel, facilities,
equipment, emergency planning and preparedness activities, etc.). Guidance on this topic
may be found in DOE G 151.1-3, Appendix C.
Lessons learned from evaluations of exercises should be included with such records to
enable facility emergency management program administrators to identify areas requiring
additional training or that could require changes to the facility emergency plan and
implementing procedures.
1.6 Response Responsibilities
The responsibilities of the program administrator(s) related to plans and procedures
associated with emergency response have been covered in Section 1.4. However,
associated with several of the response emergency management program elements are
functions/activities that must be maintained on a regular or periodic basis in order to be
ready in the event of an OE. The program administrator(s) must ensure that these
functions are performed regularly. DOE G 151.1-4 contains guidance related to all of the
response program elements, and, in particular, descriptions of the associated
programmatic functions. These response-related programmatic functions/activities are
identified and associated documentation requirements are indicated in the following
sections.
1.6.1 Programmatic Activities
ERO. An adequate number of fully trained personnel, with periodic participation in an
exercise, an evaluated drill, or an actual response, are assigned to facility- and site-level
ERO positions to ensure adequate staffing for emergency response. The standby staffing
of ERO emergency facility positions and response teams is effectively accomplished.
ERO rosters are periodically reviewed for accuracy (e.g., current qualifications, correct
phone number, correct response time, etc.) Communication systems used to activate both
on shift and off shift emergency response personnel are periodically tested.
Offsite Interfaces. The emergency management program administrator(s) should meet
with local emergency planning officials at least annually and upon significant program
change to ensure their collective understanding of the site emergency plan and emergency
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plan implementing procedures. This should occur as the documents affecting their roles,
responsibilities, and activities change or require greater emphasis or attention,
particularly in the area of emergency categories, classifications, notifications, and
protective action recommendations.
The program administrator(s) is also responsible for the development, review, and update
of facility/site-specific mutual aid agreements/memoranda of agreement/memoranda of
understanding (MAAs/MOAs/MOUs) relevant to a comprehensive and effective
emergency management program. These MAAs/MOAs/MOUs routinely involve support
provided to and/or from offsite organizations or, on a multiple-facility site, support
provided to and/or from other facilities, contractors, and/or offsite organizations. On a
multiple-facility site, MAAs/MOAs/MOUs with offsite organizations should be
developed, maintained, and updated by the site emergency management program
administrator and are typically maintained as a part of the site emergency plan. There are
DOE/NNSA locations where DOE/NNSA retains full responsibility for development and
maintenance of agreements with offsite organizations.
Section 16
Organizations which may be needed in a supporting role and/or needed for long-term
support have been identified and pre-designated offsite points-of-contact, including
organization, names, and telephones numbers, are documented, maintained, and available
to the response organization. Planned response functions to be provided by offsite
organizations are periodically tested and verified.
Emergency Facilities and Equipment. Designated response facilities, especially multi-
use facilities, are adequately maintained. Inventories of all emergency equipment and
supplies are maintained in identified locations. Periodic inspections, operational checks,
calibration, preventive maintenance and testing of equipment and supplies are carried out
as required.
Categorization and Classification. Emergency Action Level (EAL) sets are reviewed
and tested regularly against a range of initiating conditions and emergency
event/condition scenarios.
Consequence Assessment. A formal Quality Assurance Program is implemented and
maintained for control of the tools used in consequence assessment.
Emergency Medical Support. Arrangements with offsite medical facilities to transport,
accept, and treat contaminated, injured personnel are established, documented, and
periodically reviewed. Onsite and offsite medical personnel are periodically offered
information and training on facility/site-specific hazardous materials and offered
opportunities for participation in drills and exercises.
Emergency Public Information. Workers and site personnel are informed of
emergency response plans, response capabilities, and planned protective actions.
Information is disseminated periodically to the public regarding facility hazards, how
they will be alerted and notified of an emergency, what their actions should be in the
event of an emergency, and points of contact for additional information. Continuing
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education is provided to the area news media for the purpose of acquainting the media
with the facility, management personnel, facility hazards, emergency plans, and points of
contact. A list of 24-hour media points-of-contact is available and maintained current.
1.6.2 Documentation
Written MAAs/MOAs/MOUs should be developed to ensure that the provision of support
during an exercise and an actual emergency is not dependent on the presence of specific
individuals. MAAs/MOAs/MOUs may be mutual aid or support agreements between
onsite and offsite response organizations or may require Departmental elements or
contractor organizations to provide specific capabilities, training, and/or information in
exchange for assistance from offsite organizations.
Copies of supporting MAAs/MOAs/MOUs between Departmental entities and Tribal,
State, and local governments or response organizations should be maintained as an
appendix to the emergency plan. If the potential release of phone numbers and radio call
information is of concern, a table listing just the MOAs/MAAs/MOUs with renewal dates
can be included in the emergency plan.
1.7 Document Control
The volume of information and documents that support and define an emergency
management program, together with supporting technical information and reports,
represents a significant challenge to emergency management program administration. A
reliable document control system for document review, approval, distribution, and
change control should be established, where none exists, or emergency management
documents should be controlled under an existing site-wide document control system.
The following list represents some of the documents that should be managed under a
document control system:
Section 17
• Technical Supporting Information (e.g., diagrams, illustrations, maps, reference
documents, and technical documents, such as risk assessments and Material Safety
Data Sheets)
• Emergency Management Documents (e.g., facility/site Hazards Surveys and/or
EPHAs, Plans and Procedures, Emergency Planning Zone (EPZ) documentation, all
MOU, MOA, MAA, and all other documents required by Orders or other applicable
laws or regulations)
• Auditable Program Records (e.g., complete training and drill records; exercise
records, including participation and evaluation reports; program assessment and
evaluation reports; and records resulting from actual emergencies; corrective actions
and associated closure verification/validation records)
The program administrator(s) must determine the appropriate controls to be placed on
each document, based on the need for review, approval, distribution, and change control.
No specific document control system is required, but the system should “meet industry
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standards.” It also includes ensuring the availability of vital records essential for the
continued functioning, operation, or reconstitution of a site organization/activity during
or after an emergency [e.g., continuity of operations (COOP)]. DOE/NNSA encourages
the program administrator(s) to make maximal use of technological tools, such as the
Internet, to increase document and information availability. However, the availability of
sensitive, unclassified [e.g., Official Use Only (OUO)] facility/site documents containing
information that could be exploited by malevolent interests (e.g., EPHAs, facility/site
diagrams and maps) must be secured following DOE/NNSA guidelines.
The program administrator(s) ensures that adequate documentation of all technical data
which supports the emergency management program is maintained, kept current using
both hard copy and electronic media where possible, and shared with those who require
access to it. The program administrator(s) should ensure that up-to-date and controlled, if
appropriate, copies are maintained, information is properly distributed and/or made
available or accessible, documents are updated when needed or required, and required
supporting information is maintained. This enables the emergency management program
administrator(s) to ensure that changes and updates are distributed to all organizations
using and/or maintaining these documents. Copies of such documents maintained on
electronic media should be read-only, access-controlled; the specific procedures used to
address access to these electronic media files should be determined by the respective
facility and/or site. At the same time, the emergency management program
administrator(s) must ensure that Federal and Departmental security regulations and
guidance associated with sharing such information and documents are being met and/or
complied with.
1.8 Classified/Sensitive Information
If classified and/or sensitive information or materials are being used or generated at/by a
facility or site, the emergency management program administrator(s) is responsible for
ensuring that required security procedures and controls are incorporated at the
appropriate facility and/or site levels. This also includes ensuring that required security
reviews are conducted, documented, and lessons learned implemented. The administrator
also ensures that a Derivative Classifier (DC) or an Unclassified Controlled Nuclear
Information (UCNI) reviewing official reviews emergency management documents
[e.g., plans and procedures, Hazards Surveys/EPHAs (especially location and quantity of
nuclear materials and malevolent event scenarios), and supporting program
documentation].
Section 18
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APPENDIX A. Standard Format and Content of Emergency Plans for
Hazardous Material Programs
A.1 Introduction
Emergency management programs for each DOE/NNSA facility/site and activity are
documented in an emergency plan. The plan describes provisions for response to
Operational Emergencies and activities for maintaining the emergency management
program. The recommended emergency plan format and content for Operational
Emergency Hazardous Material Programs is provided in this chapter. The requirements
for Base Programs and Hazardous Material Programs should be seamlessly integrated
into one Emergency Plan for the facility or site with hazardous materials that require a
more substantial level of planning and response capabilities. Section A.2 addresses the
format and content of the Hazardous Material Program emergency plan.
A.2 Emergency Plan
This section provides a candidate format and associated content for the Hazardous
Material Program Emergency Plan. Figure A-1 contains a recommended format for the
emergency plan. Specific content for each section in the plan follows.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Summarize the Emergency Plan by briefly stating its purpose and a description of
what is included in each chapter.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
See Figure A-1.
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. INTRODUCTION
1.1 Purpose of Emergency Plan
1.2 Scope
1.3 Concept of Operation
1.4 Site Description
2. EMERGENCY RESPONSE ORGANIZATION (INTERNAL)
2.1 Organization Structure
2.2 Emergency Direction and Control
2.3 Emergency Management Operations
3. OFFSITE RESPONSE INTERFACES
3.1 Overview
3.2 Other Federal Agencies
3.3 Tribal Organizations
3.4 State Government
3.5 Local Organizations
3.6 Private Organizations
3.7 Mutual Aid Agreements (MAAs), Memoranda of Agreement (MOAs), and
Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs)
3.8 Offsite Medical Facilities
4. EMERGENCY FACILITIES AND EQUIPMENT
4.1 Emergency Facilities
4.2 Emergency Equipment
5. EMERGENCY CATEGORIZATION AND CLASSIFICATION
5.1 Definitions
5.2 Criteria for Operational Emergencies Not Requiring Classification
5.3 Emergency Action Levels (EALs)
6. NOTIFICATIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS
6.1 Notifications
6.2 Communications
7. CONSEQUENCE ASSESSMENT
7.1 Consequence Determination
7.2 Coordination
8. PROTECTIVE ACTIONS AND REENTRY
8.1 Protective Action Criteria (PACs)
8.2 Records
8.3 Protective Actions
8.4 Reentry
8.5 Emergency Planning Zones (EPZs)
8.6 Communication
8.7 Termination of Protective Actions
8.8 Shutdown of Operations
Figure A-1. Recommended Format for Operational Emergency Hazardous Material
Program Emergency Plan
DOE G 151.1-3 A-3
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9. EMERGENCY MEDICAL SUPPORT
9.1 System
9.2 Staff
9.3 Equipment
9.4 Transportation and Evacuation
9.5 Communications
10. TERMINATION, AND RECOVERY
10.1 Emergency Termination
10.2 Recovery
11. EMERGENCY PUBLIC INFORMATION
11.1 Public Information Organization
11.2 Public Information Facilities
11.3 Public Education
11.4 Public Inquiries
11.5 Security
11.6 Field and Headquarters Coordination
12. PROGRAM ADMINISTRATION
12.1 Emergency Management Program Administrator
12.2 Document Control
13. TRAINING AND DRILLS
13.1 Courses
13.2 Training, Certification, and Proficiency Requirements
13.3 Examinations
13.4 Record Keeping
13.5 Offsite Personnel
13.6 Offsite Training Support
13.7 Offsite Personnel Training
13.8 Instructor Training and Qualification
13.9 Drills
14. EXERCISES
14.1 Exercises
14.2 Offsite Coordination
Section 19
15. READINESS ASSURANCE
15.1 Self-Assessment
15.2 Corrective Action Program
15.3 Lessons-Learned Program
Appendixes
List of Figures
List of Tables
List of Acronyms
List of Definitions
Agreements
Maps
Listing of Emergency Management Personnel
References
Figure A-1. Recommended Format for Operational Emergency Hazardous Material
Program Emergency Plan (cont’d)
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1. INTRODUCTION
1.1 Purpose of Emergency Plan
State that the purpose of this Emergency Plan is to provide the Departmental
community with an effective and efficient emergency management operation that
will provide acceptable levels of protection. For example, the Emergency Plan
provides an efficient and effective response operation that, should an emergency
occur, will protect the health and safety of workers, responders, the public, and
the environment. Identify the Departmental Orders and legislation that require
this plan and that this Emergency Plan satisfies. Describe the operational use of
the Emergency Plan and Emergency Plan Implementing Procedures (EPIPs).
1.1.1 Update of Emergency Plan
State the process and time table for Emergency Plan updates, including required
periodic updates and updates made necessary by changes in emergency planning
or facility operations and/or hazards.
1.1.2 Distribution of Copies
Identify which organizations, Departmental and non-Departmental, are to receive
copies of the Emergency Plan.
1.2 Scope
Identify the types of emergencies, per DOE O 151.1C, to which this Emergency
Plan applies and does not apply. (Emergency Plans generally are for Operational
Emergencies and not Energy or Emergency Assistance emergencies.) Identify the
boundaries and define the site to which this Emergency Plan applies (i.e., site
emergency plan versus building or facility Emergency Plan).
1.3 Concept of Operations
Describe the concept on which site-wide emergency planning is based. Identify
the documents, reports, surveys, and assessments used to develop this Emergency
Plan, or refer to where this information can be found in the Emergency Plan.
1.4 Site Description
1.4.1 Overview Site Description
Identify the overall function and mission of the site. Broadly describe the site and
the buildings and facilities within the site. Use maps and other graphics/diagrams
as appropriate to describe the site. Do not use classified information.
DOE G 151.1-3 A-5
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1.4.1.1 Detailed Facility Description
In detail, describe the specific facilities that, by the nature of the hazards present
on those facilities, could cause an emergency to be declared. Do not use
classified information in the facility description. Identify the maximum number
of employees in each facility described. Provide facility floor plans where
appropriate.
1.4.1.2 Hazard Survey and Hazards Assessment
A Hazards Survey shall be used by the site, facility, or activity Emergency
Manager to identify the planning requirements addressed in the Operational
Emergency Base Program. A Departmental site, facility or activity may then be
required to establish and maintain a quantitative Emergency Planning Hazards
Assessment (EPHA). The quantitative EPHA analyzes hazards significant
enough to warrant consideration in a facility/site or activity Operational
Emergency Hazardous Material Program.
Include or summarize the results of the Hazards Survey. Describe known hazards
originating outside the Departmental facility that could impact the health and
safety of onsite personnel or other Departmental interests.
Section 20
List and/or summarize the significant radiological and non-radiological hazards
present. Describe the system for updating the EPHA. The EPHA may be
included as a separate appendix, if desired or necessary for completeness.
Identify technical supporting documents that describe the methodology and
information of EPHAs used as the bases for emergency planning. Describe the
hazards associated with leased facilities (if applicable).
1.4.1.3 Contractors
Identify the major contractors and their contractual commitments and
responsibilities.
1.4.1.4 Leased Facilities on Site (if applicable)
Identify facilities onsite that are leased to others, including contractual
arrangements and agreements. Identify emergency management agreements and
interfaces with the site emergency management program.
1.4.2 Physical Attributes of the Site
1.4.2.1 Geography
Identify the state, county, and any other appropriate local subdivision in which the
site is located. Discuss the site location with respect to prominent natural and
man-made features such as rivers, lakes, or dams. Describe land use of
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surrounding area. Discuss any groundwater features. Identify other vital features,
such as fault lines or flood plains.
1.4.2.2 Topography and Geology
Briefly describe the terrain of the site and the surrounding area, including ground
cover and elevations. Describe the geology of the site and the surrounding area,
particularly as it relates to possible seismic activity.
1.4.2.3 Population Distribution
Describe the surrounding area (offsite) population, including population density.
Provide maps identifying potentially affected onsite population groupings and,
based on the most recent census information available, offsite populations to
distances of 10 and 50 miles from the site boundary. Discuss projected
population growth or change trends and the basis for these projections.
1.4.2.4 Meteorology
Briefly describe the general climate of the region, including types of air masses,
synoptic features (high- and low-pressure systems and frontal systems), general
airflow patterns, temperature and humidity, precipitation, and relationships
between synoptic-scale atmospheric processes and local meteorological
conditions.
1.4.2.5 Natural Phenomena
Describe seasonal and annual frequencies of severe weather phenomena,
including hurricanes, tornadoes, and waterspouts, thunderstorms, lightning, hail,
severe drought, and high air pollution potential. Describe the potential for
earthquakes and floods.
1.4.2.6 Transportation System
Describe major public and private transportation systems used by employees and
the surrounding public. This includes waterways, airports, rail systems; major
highways located on, through, and near the site and major local access routes.
Describe any transportation systems operated within the site. Describe any
transportation interfaces required for site evacuations.
1.4.2.7 Utility System
Describe the public and private utility systems used by the site that would be
affected by an actual emergency or declaration of an emergency. Describe how
the utilities would be affected and the effect on the surrounding population.
Identify and describe any back-up utility systems present and the plan for their
use.
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2. EMERGENCY RESPONSE ORGANIZATION (INTERNAL)
2.1 Organization Structure
Section 21
Generally describe the overall organizational structure of the site and describe in
detail the emergency response organization, including its relationship to the
overall structure. Figures, diagrams, and organization charts may be used to show
lines of authority between the various government officials, the emergency
manager, and heads of various departments. Specifically delineate the functions,
authorities, and responsibilities of all internal organizational elements with
emergency responsibilities. Outline the relationship of all emergency
organizations to each other, with Departmental (field and Headquarters) and other
Federal, Tribal, state, and local organizations.
List all committees with emergency management or emergency planning roles
and responsibilities. Describe the purpose and make-up of each committee.
Include both onsite and offsite committees in which employees serve either as a
working member, a participant, or an observer. List the members, the authority
and responsibility of each committee, and the authority and position of each
member. Identify the meeting frequency and any other pertinent details to
describe the committee.
2.2 Emergency Direction and Control
Delineate the site chain of command in the event of an emergency. Discuss the
organizational structure, authorities and responsibilities, and roles played by each
position. Include an organization chart specifying, at a minimum, the positions
responsible for emergency direction and control, both during routine operations
and emergency conditions. Identify the succession of authority for emergency
positions.
2.3 Emergency Management Operations
Describe the actions and activity for the following:
• Declaration of an Operational Emergency
• Activation of the command center or Emergency Operations Center (EOC)
• Emergency response
• Reentry
• Emergency termination
The actions describing the activation of the command center or EOC include the
time required for staffing (during both normal duty hours and non-duty hours) and
the minimum positions required for activation. Note that this section is not
intended to include detailed emergency procedures, which are contained in
separate implementing procedures. Describe each position's emergency
management responsibilities, its place in the overall organization, and the
authority and responsibility of each position.
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3. OFFSITE RESPONSE INTERFACES
3.1 Overview
Provide an overview of relationships, both formal and informal, with offsite
organizations, including other Departmental elements and other Federal
government, Tribal, state, and local organizations with emergency management or
emergency planning responsibilities. MAAs, MOAs, and MOUs should be
described in this section.
3.2 Other Federal Agencies
Describe agreements with other Federal agencies, specifying the role of the
agency, potential response, regulatory control, and notification chain required.
Discuss the relationship of the organization in the activation of the National
Response Plan (NRP) and its role in the National Incident Management System
(NIMS). Examples of Federal agencies that may be involved in a Departmental
response are as follows:
• Department of Defense
• Defense Threat Reduction Agency
• Department of Homeland Security
• U.S. Forest Service
• Federal Bureau of Investigation
• Federal Aviation Administration
• U.S. Coast Guard
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
• Nuclear Regulatory Commission
• National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Section 22
3.3 Tribal Organizations
Describe the roles of Tribal organizations with emergency response or regulatory
control responsibilities relevant to Departmental facilities and/or sites.
Summarize primary and secondary support roles. Describe Tribal emergency
plans or procedures that affect the Departmental facility or program. Specify the
nature of any MAAs, MOAs, or MOUs with the local tribal organizations.
3.4 State Government
Describe the roles of state organizations with emergency response or regulatory
control responsibilities relevant to Departmental facilities and/or sites.
Summarize primary and secondary support roles. Describe emergency plans or
procedures with impact upon the Departmental facility or program. Specify the
nature of any MAAs, MOAs, or MOUs with the State.
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3.5 Local Organizations
Describe the roles of local organizations with emergency response or regulatory
control duties as they pertain to Departmental facilities and/or sites. Summarize
primary and secondary support roles. Describe local emergency plans or
procedures that affect the Departmental facility or program. Specify the nature of
any MAAs, MOAs, or MOUs with the local authorities.
3.6 Private Organizations
Describe the roles of private organizations with emergency response
responsibilities relevant to Departmental facilities and/or sites. Summarize
primary and secondary support roles. Describe private emergency plans or
procedures that affect the Departmental facility or program. Specify the nature of
any MOAs or MOUs with the local private organizations. Describe any
contractual arrangements and annual funding obligations in order to maintain the
desired level of emergency preparedness.
3.7 MAAs, MOAs, and MOUs
List all MAAs, MOAs, and MOUs with offsite organizations. Include in the list
the parties to the agreement, points of contact, the date of the agreement, and the
expiration date of the agreement. Identify all organization(s) responsible for
negotiating, executing, and maintaining agreements. Specify where documents
are on file, and include copies of the unclassified MAAs, MOAs, and MOUs in an
appendix to this Emergency Plan. List all classified MAAs, MOAs, and MOUs,
identify unclassified points of contact, and state where the agreement can be
viewed.
3.8 Offsite Medical Facilities
Discuss capabilities of local medical centers to support mass casualties and
contamination events.
4. EMERGENCY FACILITIES AND EQUIPMENT
4.1 Emergency Facilities
List and provide a brief description of the following facilities. Distinguish
between dedicated and non-dedicated facilities. Maps and floor plans of facilities
should be included when a complete description of the facility will be useful in a
response.
4.1.1 EOC or Command Center
4.1.2 Alternate or Secondary EOC
4.1.3 Emergency Response Facilities
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4.1.4 Technical Support Center
4.1.5 Primary and Alternate Onsite JIC
4.1.6 Offsite Communications Center
4.1.7 Decontamination Facilities
4.1.8 Medical Facilities
4.1.9 Security Control Centers
4.2 Emergency Equipment
List and describe the equipment likely to be used for responding to emergencies.
Include in the list: equipment capability and limitations, quantity of equipment,
locations (both fixed and portable equipment), consumables, maintenance
requirements, certification requirements, expiration dates, and
computer/communications compatibilities.
4.2.1 Communications Equipment
Section 23
4.2.2 Heavy Construction Equipment
4.2.3 Decontamination Equipment
4.2.4 Alarm Equipment
4.2.5 Rescue Team Equipment
4.2.6 Sanitation and Survival Equipment
4.2.7 Transportation Equipment
4.2.8 Personnel Protection Equipment
4.2.9 Gas and Liquid Monitoring Equipment
4.2.10 Damage Control Equipment
4.2.11 Fire Fighting Equipment
4.2.12 Emergency Power Equipment
4.2.13 Logistics Support Equipment (maps, plans, etc.)
DOE G 151.1-3 A-11
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5. EMERGENCY CATEGORIZATION AND CLASSIFICATIONS
5.1 Definitions
State the definitions of Operational Emergencies and emergency classes per
DOE O 151.1C. In the interest of consistency, the definitions as provided in the
Departmental Orders can be repeated.
5.2 Criteria for Operational Emergencies Not Requiring Classification
State the criteria used to define an emergency. Briefly describe the
methodologies used to develop criteria and reference specific technical supporting
documents.
5.3 Emergency Action Levels (EALs)
Identify the EALs used to define an emergency. Briefly describe the
methodologies used to develop EALs and reference technical supporting
documents. The EALs should be described for all potential emergencies at the
facility or site, including radiological, non-radiological, terrorism, sabotage, fire,
explosion, security, and natural phenomena. Describe the criteria for each
classification of emergency at the facility or site. Identify personnel (positions)
responsible for determining the classification and action level. Discuss the level
of emergency staffing required at each level. Describe how the EALs are
incorporated into and integrated with the facility procedures that govern response
to alarms and/or abnormal events. Identify where the complete EALs are kept on
file.
6. NOTIFICATIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS
6.1 Notifications
Discuss the required and proceduralized notification process for onsite and offsite
notifications for all operational emergencies. Specify time limits in which
notifications are required, and the authority for the time limit. Identify personnel
(positions) responsible for both initiating and receiving notifications. Discuss the
method of notification (e.g., beepers, telephone). Discuss notification procedure
for termination of an incident. Discuss the procedure variance for classified
notifications. Include copies of all notification record forms, particularly those
forms used in response to DOE O 231.1A and its successors.
6.1.1 Offsite Notifications
Identify the applicable requirements for notification and communication with
appropriate offsite agencies and organizations, including, at a minimum, Tribal
government; state government; local government; local fire, police, and medical
organizations; private organizations; contractor organizations; other Federal
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agencies; and any organization for which an agreement of notification has been
signed.
6.1.2 Onsite Notifications
Identify personnel (positions) required to be notified for any emergency,
specifying any differences for day shift or night shift. Discuss, if appropriate, the
Duty Officer Program and specific responsibilities.
6.1.3 Departmental Radiological Emergency Response Assets
Identify the notification procedure for requesting Departmental radiological
emergency response assets, and the specific circumstances under which
notification is permitted or required.
6.1.4 Field EOC and Headquarters Operations Center Notifications
Section 24
Identify the circumstances under which the operations/field/site EOCs and/or the
Headquarters Operations Center are notified of an emergency and describe the
procedures for notification, including the responsible personnel.
6.2 Communications
Describe the communications systems and equipment employed by emergency
personnel at the site or any specific facility for any notifications, sirens, or
warnings to the public, including a description of primary and alternate systems.
Discuss communications interface with offsite organizations; describe the
integration of the site’s communications with offsite response resources, such as
the police, fire and offsite EROs.
Identify what portions of the system are dedicated to the Emergency Management
System. Describe the equipment, back-up equipment, readiness assurance, and
testing procedures. Describe the troubleshooting system for ensuring that
problems noted during tests and drills are identified, tracked, and resolved.
Reference to any listing of communication equipment in the Emergency
Equipment chapter is acceptable. Describe the procedures and plans for
communicating classified information.
7. CONSEQUENCE ASSESSMENT
7.1 Consequence Determination
Describe the procedure(s) used to determine the potential consequences based on
the results of hazard assessments and input from all other pertinent areas, such as
intelligence and meteorological information. Describe the methodologies used for
consequence assessment and reference technical supporting documentation.
DOE G 151.1-3 A-13
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Describe the expected utilization of the National Atmospheric Release Advisory
Center (NARAC) capabilities during a response. Describe the procedures for
continually (and in real time, where appropriate) monitoring an emergency or a
continuing situation to update the consequence assessment. Describe the
processes for initiating and performing field monitoring for both radiological and
chemical releases. When appropriate, include a discussion of any special
circumstances associated with coordination and execution of offsite field
monitoring.
7.2 Coordination
Describe the procedure to coordinate with other Federal, Tribal, State, and local
organizations information necessary to make accurate and timely consequence
determinations.
8. PROTECTIVE ACTIONS AND REENTRY
Identify the purpose and intended use of protective actions. Describe protective
actions used at the facility/site or activity and under what circumstances they are
implemented.
8.1 Protective Action Criteria (PACs)
8.1.1 Radiological PACs. List and summarize existing radiological Protective
Action Guides (PAGs). Reference applicable supporting technical
documentation.
8.1.2 Chemical PACs. List the AEGL/ERPG/TEEL used for chemicals
involved in potential Operational Emergencies. Reference applicable
supporting technical documentation.
8.2 Records
Describe the procedures and the responsible organization tasked with maintaining
an accurate log of the events of the emergency, including all follow-up health and
hygiene surveys. Describe the coordination procedures with medical personnel
and facilities. Identify the length of time and method of storing the records.
8.3 Protective Actions
Present the assumptions for the development of protective actions for both offsite
and onsite populations. Discuss what constitutes potential protective actions at
the site, such as sheltering-in-place, monitoring activities, and accounting of
personnel. Discuss the process for implementing the protective actions. Discuss
the procedures for ensuring that the protective actions are timely, communicated,
safe, and complete. Identify the notification process and responsibilities.
Section 25
Describe the considerations used to determine whether shelter-in-place or
evacuation is appropriate. Identify the notification process and responsibilities.
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Discuss conditions requiring shelter-in-place. Discuss the method(s) for
implementing shelter-in-place and for accounting for personnel. Identify the
location of shelters.
Discuss conditions requiring evacuation (full or partial). Identify onsite
evacuation routes and include maps. Discuss the method for collecting and
housing the evacuated individuals. Describe access control procedures for
evacuated areas. Discuss the method and procedures for accountability of onsite
personnel and visitors.
8.4 Reentry
Describe the plan and criteria for reentry at each facility, where applicable, for the
entire site, and identify all reentry plans. Identify and discuss, where appropriate,
the criteria for reentering areas under emergency conditions or which had
restricted access during the emergency. Describe the procedure used to assess
damage and/or contamination. Identify personnel who develop, approve, or
implement reentry and indicate their relationship to the emergency organization.
The reentry plan shall also include: methods for protection of workers from
hazardous exposure, exposure guides for rescue personnel, facility accessibility,
security considerations, access to protective clothing and equipment, availability
of medical assistance, and debriefing procedures. Provide references to technical
supporting documentation if applicable. Note that some activities of reentry may
be relevant to recovery.
8.5 Emergency Planning Zones (EPZs)
Describe the procedures and/or the predetermined emergency planning zones in
determining potentially affected areas. Use maps, as appropriate, for an accurate
and complete description. Identify the persons (positions) responsible for
determining and recommending protective actions for the public within the plume
exposure EPZ and receiving protective action recommendations from the site.
Specify the evacuation routes to be used in an emergency. Discuss sheltering and
evacuation plans for the EPZ. Define the size of the plume EPZ limit, specifically
noting what portions of the EPZs fall onsite and offsite. Describe the exposure
pathways. Describe conditions, procedures, and authorities for evacuation of
local populations.
Describe the ingestion pathway planning zone. Identify the persons (positions)
responsible for determining and recommending protective actions for the public
within the ingestion pathway planning zone.
8.6 Communication
Describe the communications to notify other Federal, Tribal, State, local, and
private organizations of necessary actions required for their protection or for
DOE G 151.1-3 A-15
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which they are responsible for informing the public or otherwise need to take
action. Define and list, if necessary, sources of information used by Federal,
Tribal, State, and local organizations in further determining their course of action.
8.7 Termination of Protective Actions
Describe how protective actions are lifted or modified, the authorities for removal
of protective actions, how this information is communicated, both onsite and
offsite, and how the activity is accomplished. Describe any post-emergency
communications or follow-up actions.
8.8 Shutdown of Operations
Describe the system to ensure safe shutdown of facility and/or site operations
following the declaration of an emergency.
Section 26
9. EMERGENCY MEDICAL SUPPORT
Describe the medical capabilities available onsite and offsite to respond to an
emergency.
9.1 System
Describe the onsite medical care organization responsible for medical care for
managing injured and/or contaminated personnel. Describe the onsite medical
care capabilities and facilities. Discuss roles, responsibilities, and procedures for
treatment of radiological and chemical exposures (e.g., radiological prophylaxis).
Describe the provisions in place to ensure coordination among onsite medical,
industrial hygiene, health physics, environmental response, security, and
management personnel during emergencies.
9.2 Staff
Identify the lead medical emergency director. Describe the staff available both
permanently and on call, outlining qualifications and training required. Identify
the minimum requirements for offsite medical assistance including contractual
arrangements and offsite staff training requirements.
9.3 Equipment
Describe the health services available onsite and offsite for response to
emergencies. Describe the equipment available for extrication, rescue, and
transport of injured personnel. Describe the onsite facilities and equipment for
decontamination of injured personnel. Describe the equipment available for
bioassay and whole body counting. Identify the types of medical supplies
maintained onsite and any special equipment maintained offsite for emergencies.
Describe how the quality and quantity of these supplies are determined,
maintained, and ensured.
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9.4 Transportation and Evacuation
Describe the transportation and evacuation capabilities, equipment, and process
for moving contaminated and uncontaminated casualties. Identify
person/positions with responsibility and authority for evacuation of injured or ill
personnel.
9.5 Communications
Describe the communications procedures in place for emergencies. Identify the
persons/positions responsible for notifying emergency medical teams, security,
administration, offsite hospital and offsite emergency services.
10. EMERGENCY PUBLIC INFORMATION
Describe the program to provide information concerning the emergency to the
media and the general public, including information release approval. Identify the
recommended time requirements for information release.
10.1 Emergency Public Information (EPI) Organization
Describe the organization, including the relationship to the overall emergency
organization, which will be used to disseminate information to the media and the
general public. Identify the personnel within the Public Information Office who
are authorized to release information (e.g., to employees and their families, media,
and the public), including the designated spokesperson.
10.2 Public Information Facilities
Describe the facilities and communications equipment used to disseminate
information to the public. Include meeting rooms, press areas, and
communications facilities. Describe the function and staffing of the Joint
Information Center (JIC). Discuss the coordination roles at the JIC (both onsite
and offsite).
10.3 Public Education
Describe the public education program and methodology for informing workers
and the public of potential hazards at DOE/NNSA sites and providing information
on emergency plans and protective actions before and during emergencies as well
as how they will be notified of the protective actions, including recommended
evacuation routes and sheltering.
Section 27
10.4 Public Inquiries
Describe the plan to respond to public and worker inquiries, including rumor
control.
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10.5 Security
Describe the plan to ensure that security is not being compromised with the
release of sensitive or classified information to the public.
10.6 Field and Headquarters Coordination
Describe the plan to coordinate with the operations/field/site office and
Headquarters on the release of information to the public.
11. TERMINATION AND RECOVERY
Describe the plan and criteria for declaring the emergency condition terminated
and transitioning to recovery at each facility, where applicable, and for the entire
site, and identify all termination and recovery plans. The plan includes
termination authority and responsibility and recovery criteria for protection of
workers and the general public from hazardous exposure, exposure guides for
recovery personnel, facility accessibility, security considerations, access to
protective clothing and equipment, availability of medical assistance, and
requirements for establishing the recovery organization. Provide references to
technical supporting documentation if applicable.
11.1 Emergency Termination
Describe the procedures for terminating the state of emergency, including the
personnel responsible for decision-making and their relationship to the overall
emergency organization described in Chapter 2 of the emergency plan. Address
the special circumstances of an error in initial categorization that necessitate an
emergency downgrade. Describe the conditions or identify the document under
which the emergency may be terminated and initiation of recovery activities may
occur.
11.2 Recovery
Describe the recovery (transition) process from an emergency condition to the
restoration of a safe, pre-emergency environment. Discuss the plan to restore
vital systems, such as power, water, and communications. Include a discussion of
the areas that must be verified for safety, such as fire hazards, toxic gas, and
radiation. Describe the measures taken to ensure that security procedures are
maintained. Describe the continued recovery (transition) process from a safe
environment to the pre-emergency conditions.
Describe the recovery organization and the authority and responsibility of the
chain of command that restores pre-emergency conditions. Describe how this
organization may differ from the emergency organization described in Chapter 2.
Describe the plan, either here or in Chapter 10, to notify the media and the public
about the conditions of emergency recovery.
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12. PROGRAM ADMINISTRATION
12.1 Emergency Management Program Administrator
Provide the name, position, mailing address, and telephone number of the
Emergency Management Program Administrator at the facility and/or site level.
(This information should also be provided in the appendix that lists the emergency
management personnel.) Indicate, where appropriate, whether the Emergency
Management Program Administrator has been given emergency management
responsibility through delegation of authority.
12.2 Document Control
Identify the procedure used to control dissemination of or access to the facility or
site Emergency Plan and to assure its annual review and update.
13. TRAINING AND DRILLS
Describe the goals and objectives of the facility and/or site training and drills
program. Describe the overall approach to the design of the training and drill
program, including training analysis methodology, overall curriculum design, and
qualifications.
Section 28
13.1 Courses
List the available courses for emergency response planning, preparedness, and
analysis, including title, length of course, target audience, a brief summary, and
the periodicity or schedule.
13.2 Training, Certification, and/or Proficiency Requirements
Describe courses given to emergency management personnel. Identify training,
certification, and/or proficiency requirements for key emergency management
positions and response teams. Identify periodicity of courses and employee
requirement for training and retraining or refresher training.
13.3 Examinations
Describe the examinations, if any, required for emergency response organization
personnel qualification and/or certification and for documenting individual and
team proficiency.
13.4 Record Keeping
Describe the system of record keeping for verifying that training and proficiency
requirements are met.
DOE G 151.1-3 A-19
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13.5 Training for Onsite Public
Describe the system of training available to and required for visitors, vendors, and
subcontractors.
13.6 Offsite Training Support
Describe the available offsite training resources available to onsite emergency
response organization personnel, which can substitute for or complement existing
onsite training courses and/or meet training, certification, and/or proficiency
requirements.
13.7 Offsite Personnel Training
Describe the in-house training available to offsite organizations in order to
support their abilities to participate in site emergency response actions. Describe
training available, if any, for the general public. Describe procedures for
documenting attendance of offsite personnel at training.
13.8 Instructor Training and Qualification
Describe the plan to provide qualified instructors for the onsite training available
to emergency response organization personnel and the required qualifications of
such instructors, including training courses for instructors.
13.9 Drills
Describe the drill program, per DOE O 151.1C, including the goals, frequency,
complexity, and integration of lessons learned into emergency planning. Describe
how the drills develop expertise and proficiency in performing emergency
activities such as notification, communication, fire control, medical planning, and
Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) response. Describe how drills will be
controlled and evaluated, and how lessons learned from drills, improvements,
and/or corrective actions, are incorporated into emergency planning.
14. EXERCISES
Discuss the intended purpose of the exercise program.
14.1 Exercises
Describe the emergency management exercise program and how it conforms to
the requirements of DOE O 151.1C and any other applicable Federal, State, and
local legislative-based regulation. Describe how exercises will be controlled and
evaluated and how lessons learned from exercises (improvements and/or
corrective actions) are incorporated into emergency planning.
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14.2 Offsite Coordination
Describe the method of coordination with Headquarters and participating Federal,
Tribal, State, local, and private organizations for drill or exercise planning, and
the level of participation.
15. READINESS ASSURANCE
Describe the procedures for developing a structured readiness assessment
program, including program and exercise evaluations (e.g., self-assessments,
external evaluations, performance indicators).
15.1 Self-Assessment
Describe the site internal assessment program, which requires an internal
assessment to be conducted annually.
Section 29
15.2 Corrective Action Program
Describe site validation and verification procedures for Corrective Actions and
the tracking system used to monitor Corrective Action Plan schedules and
milestones.
15.3 Lessons-Learned Program
Describe the program responsible for collecting relevant site-wide and
community-wide lessons learned, evaluating them and identifying potential
applications, and implementing the lessons learned in site processes and activities.
Appendixes
List of Figures
List of Tables
List of Acronyms
List of Definitions
Agreements
Maps
Listing of Emergency Management Personnel
References
DOE G 151.1-3 2-1
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2. TRAINING AND DRILLS
2.1 Introduction
The purpose of this chapter is to assist DOE and NNSA field elements in complying with
the DOE O 151.1C requirement to ensure that a coordinated program of training and
drills for developing and/or maintaining specific emergency response capabilities is an
integral part of the emergency management program. The program must apply to
emergency response personnel and organizations that the facility/site expects to respond
to onsite emergencies. The Order further requires that emergency-related information
must be available to offsite response organizations.
This chapter is designed primarily for facilities/sites and activities that are required to
implement an Operational Emergency Hazardous Material Program and is directed at
operations and emergency management staff at Field Elements and operating contractor
organizations that are responsible for DOE and NNSA facilities/sites and activities.
2.2 General Approach
DOE/NNSA emergency management training programs must ensure that personnel are
prepared to respond to, manage, mitigate, and recover from emergencies involving
hazards associated with facilities and onsite activities.
A comprehensive and systematic training program should be established to accomplish
emergency management training goals. The training program should provide a current
and structured view of program-specific training requirements and also address position-
specific requirements for all primary and alternate personnel assigned to the emergency
response organization. Minimum program standards should be defined for emergency
responder position training, proficiency, performance, and refresher training. The
program should be integrated and coordinated with related training programs provided by
other site organizations. Training courses should be performance-based and include
testing to validate learning. The program should ensure that instructors are qualified in
both instructional skills and technical competency for the training subject.
Training documentation and records should be formally managed and controlled to
ensure that training programs support current emergency plans and requirements and that
training records are maintained for instructors and for all personnel assigned Emergency
Response Organization (ERO) positions. Drill and exercise participation and
performance should be documented for each member of the ERO.
Requirements for initial and periodic refresher training should be identified for all
emergency response organization personnel. This should include special team training
for functional groups with technical and management assignments and training for
decision makers to ensure they can perform duties promptly and accurately. Training
needs should also be addressed for offsite emergency response personnel and
organizations that are expected to support onsite response to emergencies. This includes
Section 30
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training on facility and site-specific hazards and emergency plans and participation in
training and drills to ensure integration of onsite and offsite response resources.
Emergency drills should be developed, scheduled, and conducted to provide supervised
“hands-on” training and validation of classroom training for emergency responders and to
provide practical training on interface between site groups that support emergency
response. Drills should be developed based upon feedback from actual events and
exercise experience, to validate corrective actions from program evaluations, and to
validate new or revised procedures and equipment or facility changes.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) employs a broad definition of “exercise”
that focuses on many of the general functions attributed to the training and drills
programs [cf. DHS Homeland Security Exercise and Evaluation Program (HSEEP)], as
described in this emergency management guidance. For example, the “drill” is
considered an “exercise” that can be used for training or testing performance in a single
or limited functional area. The broad range of purposes attributed to exercise activities
described in the HSEEP series emphasizes the design of exercises to familiarize
personnel with plans and procedures, achieve teambuilding, build consensus, examine
contingencies, solve problems, evaluate functions, measure resources, and examine
interfaces. Although these training aspects of drills are emphasized in DOE guidance, the
term is commonly used throughout the DOE/NNSA complex as a small-scale exercise
(e.g., facility-level exercise).
This chapter of the EMG provides a system-based approach to emergency management
training and is organized into the following sections:
• Training program management
• Training needs assessment for onsite and offsite personnel
• Training requirements
• Training development
• Training delivery
• Training drills/practical applications
Sites should reference DOE G 414.1-2A for information on training plans, training
effectiveness, qualification of personnel, and management responsibility regarding
training programs and also reference DOE O 360.1B, Federal Employee Training.
2.3 Training Program Management
Effective management of a training program requires a formal training plan be developed
that describes program goals and objectives, organizational responsibilities, resources,
and planned activities. To accomplish the elements of the program plan, a schedule of
development, delivery, and evaluation activities should be developed and updated as
needed. Annual internal assessments of training development and implementation
identify needed improvements in the program. Trainer/instructor qualifications should be
DOE G 151.1-3 2-3
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established and updated to reflect changes in instructional techniques as well as relevant
technical disciplines. Evaluation of the training staff ensures their appropriate skill levels
and the knowledge base. Documentation of training requirements and lesson plan
reviews ensure that the course materials meet expectations for the subject positions.
Finally, a system for managing emergency responder training records ensures that staff
personnel on ERO rosters are trained for the positions assigned.
2.3.1 Program Plan
A comprehensive and systematic training program plan includes the following:
• A full description of training program goals and objectives, compliance with
requirements, and administrative policies and procedures
Section 31
• Identification of current training needs for all emergency responder positions
• Identification of training resources, staff, facilities, and reference material to support
training activities
• Schedule for training activities, including development, delivery and evaluation of
training programs and courses
• Description of the process for identifying and documenting training needs for
emergency responders
• Requirements for ERO qualification and re-qualification, including retraining and
remedial training
The program plan should also identify administrative processes that support the
systematic approach to training. Such processes should be identified for the following
elements of training management:
• Identifying training program approval and signature authority
• Establishing a matrix of training requirements for ERO positions
• Identifying methods for selecting qualified instructors and establishing a list of
training staff qualified to teach each course or program
• Describing how training records are maintained in a manner that can be audited
• Describing how refresher training addresses the details of program changes and
lessons learned from actual events, exercises, and program evaluations
• Describing how the emergency management training program is integrated and
coordinated effectively with related training provided by other organizations
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(e.g., confined space entry training, radiological monitoring training, and hazard
communication training)
The training program plan should address training for all primary and alternate personnel
assigned to the facility- and site-level ERO. A training program plan typically
distinguishes the following levels of training requirements:
• Initial training to qualify for a position on the ERO
• Refresher training to maintain competency and receive information on changes and
lessons learned related to required knowledge and skills
• Remedial training to correct deficiencies in performance or testing related to ERO
positions
• Annual participation in performance-based training methods such as drills,
simulations and exercises in order to maintain ongoing proficiency and skills
An effective way to illustrate the emergency management organization’s training plan is
to use a matrix to list ERO positions and specific training required for each position. The
matrix is both an internal tool for tracking positions and training as well as a tool for
satisfying external evaluators of the completeness of the program.
2.3.2 Schedule
A schedule for developing, delivering, and evaluating training activities should be
developed and updated as needed. The schedule should provide a current and structured
view of program-specific training requirements, including a detailed list of courses and
drills provided by the emergency management department, as well as dates for scheduled
implementation. Internal program assessments should be also indicated.
2.3.3 Program Assessments
Internal assessments of training development and implementation should be performed
once a year as part of the required annual assessment of the overall emergency
management program. A process should be identified to ensure that recommendations
from training assessments and lessons learned from previous training drills are
incorporated into future training development and implementation efforts. Internal
assessments should aim to improve training programs, including administration,
development and delivery. The site internal corrective actions tracking system provides a
convenient tool for ensuring that identified corrections are made to the program.
Section 32
2.3.4 Trainer/Instructor Qualifications and Evaluations
Qualifications. Each training program should develop a list of requirements for
qualifying instructors/trainers. These requirements should be reviewed and updated
periodically to keep pace with changes in instructional techniques as well as relevant
DOE G 151.1-3 2-5
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technical disciplines. Two primary qualification areas to be addressed in instructor
requirements are as follows:
• Instructional skills - These are skills related to the imparting of knowledge,
regardless of the subject. Examples include adult learning methodologies,
presentation skills, and training in the use of various instructional media, such as
video and on-line computer instruction.
• Technical knowledge and experience - Adequate understanding of theory, practical
knowledge, and experience in the content area are needed. Technical competency is
based on instructor credentials, job references, and demonstration of technical
expertise. Proficiency in instructing the subject areas should also be evaluated as part
of instructor qualification. Examples of areas where technical or subject-specific
expertise are necessary include dose assessment, emergency medical and emergency
public information.
A schedule should be established to ensure continuing education and professional
development of emergency management trainers/instructors in their areas of expertise.
Evaluations. Management should also conduct internal reviews of the training staff as
part of the annual assessment of the training program. These evaluations should
demonstrate the following:
• The instructor methods are consistent with the site training program standards and are
appropriate to the course objectives.
• Instruction adheres to the documented lesson plan and evaluation.
• Subject-matter knowledge and experience are appropriate for course content.
• Instructional presentation styles are appropriate and support course methodology.
• Instructor-related feedback/ratings from course evaluation forms are analyzed and
documented.
• Post-training evaluations of instructors are analyzed and documented.
Instructor deficiencies identified during the evaluation should be corrected and
documented within a specified period. Input from the evaluation should also be used to
improve knowledge, skills, and abilities of the staff.
Documentation supporting the staff qualifications should be maintained in a manner that
may be audited. Documentation should include the following:
• A matrix of staff positions, including requisite education and experience cross-
referenced with each training staff member;
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• Qualification records; and
• Feedback and post-training evaluations
2.3.5 Course Documentation
All documentation for a particular training program should be kept in either hard copy or
electronic format. Files should be organized by date, iteration, or topic. Course history
files should include rosters/attendance sheets, evaluations of knowledge and
performance, and lesson plans and tests.
• Training Requirements - Training requirements for each emergency response
position should be documented and reviewed and updated on an annual basis. This
ensures training requirements are still relevant to that position and provides an
opportunity to add any new requirements assigned to the position. For example,
should hazards change or regulatory requirements for select training change, the
organization may need to revise training requirements for some emergency response
positions.
Section 33
• Lesson Plan Reviews - Each site is responsible for maintaining current, documented
lesson plans for all site-specific training developed by that site. Lesson plans include
course documentation of classroom training, on-the-job training (OJT) programs,
practical drill training and computer-based training. Lesson plans should be reviewed
prior to their use. This process includes a review by a subject matter expert (SME) to
ensure that information contained in lesson plans continues to be consistent with
current procedures and practices and remains applicable to DOE emergency
management. Lesson plans should be updated prior to use if there have been changes
to the emergency plan and related procedures since the last annual review. Updates
should include the dated signature of the SME.
2.3.6 Emergency Responder Training Records
A system for managing emergency responder training records should include a means for
tracking the following:
• Course attendance and completion
• Status of individual emergency responder qualifications
• Scheduled training, including a system for reminding employees and program
administrators when training is needed
• In-house and external training
• Training dates, location, length, and name of the instructor
• Participation in emergency drills and exercises
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Training records should also include all documentation supporting the implementation of
training developed by a DOE/NNSA facility/site or activity. Such documents include the
following:
• Memos relating to scheduled and canceled training or training exemptions
• Certificates for training conducted outside of DOE
• Course and program evaluations
There have been situations in which training received by an individual emergency
responder has become an issue during litigation after an accident or emergency.
Facilities should seek advice from General Counsel to determine whether to include
additional information in the training records. Examples of additional records to
maintain may include lesson plans by course iteration, participant evaluations, and
any memoranda or documentation regarding remedial training received by an
individual.
2.4 Training Needs Assessment
2.4.1 Training for Onsite Emergency Responders
Training needs are based on tasks to be performed by an emergency responder, hazards
that may be encountered by response personnel, and established requirements and
standards for emergency responder training. A systematic process should be used to
identify and document performance-based training requirements for emergency responder
positions. Training needs are identified initially by reviewing regulatory requirements
and existing training programs, and then conducting a needs analysis.
In the case of training requirements originating from a regulatory source [i.e., the
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), National Fire Protection
Association (NFPA), DOE Order], a needs analysis may have already been accomplished
and included in the regulation. Further in-depth analysis need not be conducted, once
applicable requirements have been determined. These requirements should be included
and addressed in the design and development phases of the training program. Examples
of Federal requirements that specify training for emergency responders are included in
Section 2.5.
Section 34
A needs analysis should ensure that training for individual emergency response positions
provides knowledge and skills associated with assigned tasks to be performed. The needs
analysis should document the training that the emergency responder receives related to
their normal position in the work force that is applicable to their ERO responsibilities.
Training topics should reflect specific function, position, and responsibilities consistent
with activities associated with the Program Elements of the emergency management
program. Training should incorporate lessons learned in emergency planning and
response based on site experience, as well as experience from throughout the
DOE/NNSA complex, other government agencies, and private industry. Appropriate
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topics to be considered for inclusion in emergency management training programs are
listed in Section 2.5.
Analysis of emergency response training needs should be ongoing. Additional analysis is
appropriate when a discrepancy or problem is identified in the performance of an
emergency response task and whenever program changes occur. Responsible managers
should receive and use information from a variety of sources to ensure that training
continues to reflect changes and to address lessons learned. Training requirements may
be modified based on changes in hazards, response facilities or equipment,
communication systems, site or facility mission or layout, reorganization of the ERO, or
revision of procedures or requirements. Training needs may also change based on drill or
exercise evaluations, results of independent evaluations, occurrence reports, and industry
lessons learned.
Tabletop analysis is a recommended method for identifying site-specific training needs.
This method utilizes a facilitator to guide a group of subject matter experts through a
process of job analysis and selection of tasks to be addressed in training.
For personnel who have transferred from another DOE site or for contractor or personnel
with experience in a closely related industry, a streamlined and standardized qualification
process can be established. The feasibility of streamlining qualifications must be
evaluated on a case-by-case basis and documented by proof of experience. Some
additional training will usually be required to become familiar with facility-specific
hazards and procedures.
2.4.2 Training for Offsite Emergency Responders
Training needs should also be identified for offsite emergency responders who may be
involved in response to site emergencies. The applicable agreements [i.e., Memorandum
of Agreement (MOA) or Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)] should identify the
type of training needed.
A systematic process should be used to determine which offsite organizations have
emergency responders that may require site-specific training. For example:
• Facility-specific orientation training on hazards and emergency response procedures,
as well as emergency notification and communications should be offered annually to
state, tribal and local emergency response organizations.
• Private hospitals, medical and ambulance services expected to support onsite
response efforts or receive contaminated injured personnel from the site should also
receive training on site hazards and protection from those hazards as well as interface
and communications with site responders.
Section 35
• Offers of annual training for all parties in mutual aid agreements should be
considered. These same parties should be offered the opportunity to participate in
training drills and exercises. (Ref. DHS HSEEP program for specific information on
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requirements pertaining to emergency exercises for local and state agencies and
integration with offsite responders)
Training, drills and exercises should aim to achieve team building, consensus building,
contingencies examination, problem solving, resources measurement, and interface
examination.
2.5 Specific Training Requirements
Each site must determine the specific emergency response training requirements that
apply to the ERO positions based on specific site hazards, conditions, resources, and
emergency plans. Applicable requirements will differ from site to site. For example,
for sites that involve mining operations, the Mine Safety and Health Administration
(MSHA) regulations for mine rescue training may apply. Differences would result
from the situation where a site must maintain an onsite fire brigade vs. a site that
depends solely upon offsite agency fire response. The following sections describe
specific training requirements derived from applicable regulations, position-specific
functions, site characteristics and operations, and details of the emergency
management program.
2.5.1 Regulatory Requirements
Training personnel should monitor applicable regulations promulgated by OSHA,
MSHA, Nuclear Regulator Commission (NRC), Environmental Protection Agency
(EPA), NFPA, and DHS. The impact of regulatory changes on training needs can be
evaluated using the following questions:
• What conditions do the changes address?
• Do those conditions exist at this facility/site?
• Will changes influence the way our personnel perform their tasks?
• What specific effects will this change have on training?
• Does the condition require an immediate response?
The following are examples of non-DOE Federal and national requirements that specify
training for emergency responders:
• 29 CFR 1910.156 specifies fire fighter training
• 40 CFR 265.37 specifies training for EROs Granted Facility Access and Training for
Hospitals Receiving Facility Patients
• 40 CFR 112.7 specifies training for Spill Prevention, Control and Countermeasures
• 29 CFR 1910.120 specifies training for Hazardous Materials Emergency Response
• 29 CFR 1910.38 specifies training for Emergency Action Plan/Evacuation of
Employees
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• 29 CFR 1910.157 specifies Fire Extinguisher Education
• 29 CFR 1910.146 specifies Confined Space Rescue Training
• NFPA 472 specifies training for Professional Competence of Responders
• NFPA 473 specifies training for Professional Competence of EMS Personnel
• NFPA 1500 specifies training for fire department Occupational Safety and Health
Programs
• NRP and NIMS
• DHS HSEEP, Volumes I through IV.
• Emergency Operations Training Academy (EOTA)
Other Federal or State training requirements may apply for some DOE/NNSA sites.
2.5.2 Site-Specific Training
Section 36
General training for employee response, including training on protective actions in an
emergency is required as part of the Operational Emergency Base Program. This may
be included as part of an employer's General Employee Training (GET) Program.
Emergency-related information in this training should include emergency awareness,
overview of the organization’s emergency response plan, warning systems and
alarms, protective action (e.g., evacuation and sheltering), accountability for site
workers in the event of an emergency, and first aid. Employees assigned to specific
responsibilities for onsite emergency response should receive additional training to
address those responsibilities. At a minimum, this includes emergency managers,
building wardens who support personnel accountability and protective action
procedures (e.g., personnel assigned to close doors and windows and shutdown of
ventilation systems), personnel assigned to perform first aid/cardio pulmonary
resuscitation (CPR) or use fire extinguishers, emergency spokespersons, and
personnel responsible for interface with offsite response organizations that may
support onsite emergency response.
2.5.3 First Responder Training
Initial and annual refresher training should be provided to workers who are likely to
witness emergency conditions involving hazardous materials and who are expected to
notify the proper authorities. These workers are expected to attain the applicable training
level according to the requirements specified in 29 CFR 1910.120.
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2.5.4 Offsite Responder Training
As discussed in Section 2.4, emergency-related information, instruction concerning
notification procedures, and training on site-specific conditions and hazards should be
made available to offsite personnel who might be requested to respond to an emergency
at the DOE facility/site, as well as hospitals that have agreed to receive patients from
facility emergencies. Offsite responders should also have the opportunity to participate
in drills conducted to validate procedures and test integration of resources with the
facility response organizations.
2.5.5 Training on Change
When changes occur involving facilities or sites (e.g., change in mission, facility
decommissioning, organization reengineering) or when hazards change, employees and
responders should receive training on how these changes apply to them and their
responsibilities for emergency response. Annual re-training should address changes;
however, training on changes may need to occur prior to scheduled re-training to ensure
safe and effective response.
2.5.6 Operational Emergency Hazardous Material Program
The Operational Emergency Hazardous Material Program described in DOE O 151.1C
requires a coordinated training program consisting of formal training and drills. The
program develops and/or maintains specific emergency response capabilities for all
personnel and organizations expected to respond to onsite emergencies. This training
program should consist of a combination of self-study, homework, formal classroom
training, field training focusing on skills, and drills. All personnel (including both the
primary and alternates) who constitute the ERO should receive both initial and annual
refresher training. Emergency-related training should also be made available to offsite
response organizations.
Section 37
Training should emphasize the need for prompt, accurate, and practical judgments
involving event categorization and classification, protective actions and the urgency of
notifications of Operational Emergencies. Training should address decision-making
when information is incomplete or uncertain and when events and conditions are not
covered explicitly by Emergency Action Level (EAL) procedures.
The training program should be “commensurate with the hazards” identified in the
Emergency Planning Hazards Assessments (EPHAs). Individual training programs
should be commensurate with assigned emergency-response responsibilities. Training
topics should reflect the trainee’s functional position and responsibilities. Appropriate
topics to consider in the training program include:
• Hazards assessments
• Emergency Management Program Administration
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– Management and decision-making
• ERO
– Incident command
– Activation and coordination of response resources
– Hazardous materials emergency response
– Fire-fighting
• Offsite interfaces
– Coordination and liaison with offsite response and support organizations
• Emergency facilities and equipment operation
• Emergency categorization and classification
– Decision-making
• Notification and communications
• Consequence assessment
– Dose projection
– Field monitoring
– Decision-making
• Protective Actions and Reentry
– Protective actions/protective action recommendations decision-making
– Reentry planning
– Rescue
– Decontamination
• Emergency medical support
• Emergency public information
– Emergency spokesperson skills
• Emergency Termination and recovery
– Recovery planning
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2.6 Training Development
In this section, development of individual training courses is discussed. The initial step
in training course development is establishment of goals and objectives. The method for
delivery of the training will depend on the target audience and the goals and objectives of
the training. Course materials will be designed to facilitate the learning process and will
be consistent with the delivery method selected. A key element of the course
development is identification of the method for testing whether students have
successfully achieved the specified level of competency in the material presented. Once
all aspects of the course have been developed, the training should be evaluated to
determine whether it meets expectations. Finally, the special subject of remedial training
development is briefly discussed in this section.
2.6.1 Training Goals and Objectives
The training or instructional goals for a specific course state the anticipated outcome of
instruction. The instructional goal provides a broad statement of what will be
accomplished at the conclusion of the lesson or course. Training objectives are
measurable statements of intent that specify expected outcomes of each stage of training.
They should state clearly what participants would know or be able to demonstrate after
training. Course results will be measured against the original goals and objectives set at
the beginning of course development.
2.6.2 Training Delivery
Section 38
Methods of training delivery are an important consideration in the design of each course.
Appropriate methods for delivering the specific training depend on the target audience’s
composition, location, need, and job complexity. The type of delivery for emergency
management training should also be based on learning objectives, learning tasks, and
group size. Class size may need to be controlled to maximize instructor/ student
interaction. Classroom-style delivery of training may effectively use live classroom,
video presentations, computer-based instruction, or self-paced instruction via computer
disk and Internet. Most training should combine instructor presentation with student
participation and hands-on demonstration and experience. Training demonstrations, role-
playing, and practical skills training should be realistic but with due consideration for
student and facility safety. ISMS practices should be fully implemented when bringing
realism into practical training or drills.
To maximize student involvement, classroom training may be augmented with tabletop
simulations, hands-on drills, role-playing exercises, group tasks, facilitated group
discussions, and assigned reading/reporting. Practical exercises that put knowledge into
practice are very effective to help ensure student ability to apply knowledge in the
context of realistic hypothetical situations.
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2.6.3 Developing Course Materials
Course materials are the materials used by instructor and participants to facilitate
training. When preparing to develop course materials, first review any existing training
materials, regulations, manuals, and industry guidelines for usability. Existing materials
should be reviewed against instructional objectives to determine whether they partially or
fully meet training requirements. Course materials can include lesson plans/course
documentation, training support materials, and participant materials.
Lesson Plans/Course Documentation. An instructor uses a lesson plan as the primary
training tool for guiding the learning process. Standard lesson plans for classroom
instruction promote consistent, effective instructor presentation and may include the
following:
• Administrative information (name of course, time allotted, target population,
instructional method, and approval)
• Training goal and objectives
• Details about training methodology
• Lesson content based on learning objectives
• Lesson content sufficiently detailed to ensure consistent and repeatable training
• Safety information, as relevant
• Training support requirements
Training Support Requirements. Training support materials should be selected and/or
developed to support and reinforce the learning objectives. For each course documented,
identify, develop, and maintain a list of the resources including trainers, technology,
equipment, and facilities (classrooms, laboratories, and response facilities) required to
support training activities. Training support materials or aids to consider include
computers, software, video, models, demonstration equipment, scenarios and classroom
exercises.
Participant Materials. The purpose of participant materials is to enhance learning and to
provide reference materials for participants. Materials might include any of the
following:
• Student workbook
• Job aids such as procedures or equipment operating instructions
• Glossary of terms
• Checklists used to document action steps
Section 39
DOE G 151.1-3 2-15
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• Copies of viewgraphs used by trainer to illustrate key points
• References discussed during training session
• Lesson plan outline
Participant materials should be marked “For Training Use Only” to ensure that trainees
do not confuse them with procedures.
2.6.4 Test Methodology
Training and drills should include some form of measurement or demonstration that
indicates completion of training objectives and achievement of qualification standards.
Tests document the knowledge and skills a participant has gained from training. Written
examinations and performance evaluations measure achievement of each instructional
objective. Each evaluation item should reference a specific training objective.
Emergency drills in particular provide an excellent opportunity to incorporate
performance tests of individual emergency responder and response group proficiencies.
Instructors who evaluate practical performance tests during drills must have the technical
experience and expertise to provide a valid assessment of performance.
When constructing a test, the following characteristics and constraints should be
considered:
• Test length should reasonably reflect the length and complexity of the lesson plan that
is delivered.
• Multiple test items for each learning objective may more accurately verify that
learning has taken place.
• Vary test materials or use randomly selected test banks to ensure long-term validity of
tests and ensure that test information is not shared and compromised between
students.
• Performance tests should include checklists addressing each learning objective.
• Development of pre-tests and post-tests, and the comparison of results, can help
validate that learning has taken place and help verify the effectiveness of the specific
training course.
• Intermediate evaluation (i.e., measuring progress during the course) can help
instructors to verify learning before the training course is complete and may prevent
the need for remedial training at the end.
• Evaluation of course objectives measures what the participants know or can perform
at the end of training.
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2.6.5 Course Evaluation
Training programs should be evaluated by the training organization for the adequacy of
the following: program and lesson content; examinations; presentation; documentation;
and, post-training performance. Participants should be encouraged to provide evaluation
of course materials and delivery as part of the overall program evaluation process. This
evaluation process determines strengths and weaknesses, improves content and delivery,
and ensures that revisions are made as appropriate. Development of new courses should
include evaluation and validation of the effectiveness of course materials using pilot
presentations, peer reviews, and/or review by subject matter experts.
2.6.6 Remedial Training
Remedial training is additional training provided to a participant who did not correctly
answer the required number of test questions or who was unable to successfully complete
a formal training session in the previous iteration. Because remedial training
requirements are lesson-specific, they should be prescribed in each lesson plan so they
are ready for use in case they are needed. Remedial training focuses on the specific
knowledge or skills challenging the participant. Remedial training might consist of
additional instruction or training directly related to the training objectives for the portion
of the course in which the participant had difficulty. The remedial training is intended to
raise the individual’s competency to a level that allows attainment of the knowledge and
skills required to successfully complete the lesson or demonstrate the skill proficiency
required to perform the job.
Section 40
2.7 Training Delivery
The previous section briefly discussed methods for delivery of training and how the
delivery method should be part of the training plan. This section provides specific
guidance to training organizations, including instructors responsible for actually
delivering training. In preparation for delivery of training, training personnel should
confirm that the following are ready for the training session:
• Equipment — instructional equipment such as projectors, VCRs, computer hardware,
computer software and television monitors
• Facilities — classrooms and setup of the classroom, exercise sites, ranges, computer
labs, etc.
• Course administration — materials, supplies, documentation, such as attendance
sheets, certificates, and participant notebooks
• Instructor Qualifications/Skills — knowledge of lesson plan content and knowledge
of target population’s needs; preparation of lesson plan and participant learning
activities
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The following is practical guidance for instructors to help ensure successful delivery of
training:
• Adhere to the lesson plan content and presentation method defined in the training
design document.
• Adhere to all safety measures listed in the lesson plan.
• Create an instructional atmosphere that enhances the learning process.
• Use effective communication skills to keep students engaged in discussions and
activities.
• Dress appropriately for the environment and training activities. For example, if the
normal dress is business casual or if training will be conducted outside, dress
accordingly.
• Provide and monitor feedback from participants to ensure active learning.
• Ensure that participants accomplish all the objectives during training.
• Ensure involvement of all students in training activities, group tasks, discussions, and
hands-on learning experiences.
• Evaluate participant performance during and at completion of the training session.
• Ensure that all required materials are made available to the participant for self- paced
training.
• Use standardized materials for on-the-job and technology-based training programs.
2.8 Drills
Drills are training methods that allow an individual to put knowledge into practice in the
context of a scenario-based simulation. The drill provides practical training to enhance
preparedness for emergency response personnel and organizations that are expected to
respond to onsite emergencies. Qualification requirements for each emergency response
position should include annual participation in at least one training drill (or, alternatively,
an exercise) during which practical knowledge and skills are demonstrated.
Drills are supervised hands-on instruction and application sessions for individuals or
teams. These sessions provide an opportunity to demonstrate and maintain individual
and organizational proficiency. During drills, the desired skills or actions may or may
not be first demonstrated by the instructor(s). These training activities are documented
by a plan, which includes a performance checklist used by the instructor or evaluator.
The checklist has two purposes: to provide feedback during the training and to
summarize overall performance. Because the focus is training, it is often appropriate for
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the instructor to stop and correct participant actions during the activity rather than waiting
until the end.
Section 41
Drills should be of sufficient scope, duration, and frequency to ensure adequate training
for all emergency response functions applicable to the facility. The size and complexity
of any drill will depend on the objectives. Many drills will be functional, focusing on
training responders involved in a specific response function. Drills can range from
hands-on instruction involving one procedure to a multi-organizational, scenario-driven
event. Drills should be as realistic as possible, using realistic scenarios based on hazards
surveys and EPHAs as well as actual facility conditions. Conduct of drills requires a
skilled and experienced instructor(s) who can present the scenario, control activities of
responders, and provide feedback that enhances learning.
Within the DOE/NNSA emergency management system, the distinction between a drill
and an exercise is reflected in their primary purpose, namely, a drill is oriented toward
training and is not a graded evaluation of the response activity. Because the focus of a
drill is training, some aspects of drill conduct can be made more flexible than in an
exercise. Some emergency response roles may be combined and the instructor/controller
may be free to stop and correct the responder actions during the drill. In a small drill, one
instructor may plan, conduct and evaluate the performance.
Consideration should always be given to the need for safety and security plans when
drills are conducted. Any drill that has the potential to affect or might be observed by an
offsite population (e.g., activities of a field monitoring team, smoke from a fire drill, etc.)
should be planned to avoid public concern or inconvenience.
The following represent typical functions/activities for the focus of drills:
• Emergency medical team response
• Hazardous Material (HAZMAT) response
• JIC activation
• Dose assessment drill
• Field monitoring drill
• Emergency notifications/communications with offsite agencies
• Protective Force interface with Fire Department
Successful implementation of drills involves systematic planning, conduct, and
assessment.
• Planning for drills should involve the following components:
– Performance objectives. Identify the performance, including conditions and
standards of performance. The objectives should reference a specific policy,
procedure, or training requirement.
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– Performance checklist. Develop a checklist based on the performance objectives,
conditions, and standards of performance. Also, identify how the drill will be
conducted in the context of the assessment checklist.
– Scenario description. Describe the elements or system being trained through use
of the specific scenario. Scenarios may be restricted to specific, limited aspects of
the emergency management system. Scenarios should be based on site hazards
identified in the Hazards Survey or EPHA. The scenario description should
include a detailed description of events and conditions that emergency responders
need to deal with and a timeline of events and actions that are expected to take
place.
– Controls. Describe the controls imposed to ensure the integrity of the drill
(e.g., safety plans, security notifications, use of trusted agents, equipment
controls, time limitations and coordination with other operational elements).
– Resource requirements. Description of resources needed to conduct the drill
(e.g., facilities, personnel, and equipment).
Section 42
– Compensatory measures. Describe the measures to be taken to compensate for
any degradation of security or response capabilities during the training.
– Documentation and approval process. Identify the approval process for drill
plans, the dates on which drills were conducted, and the results/corrective actions
identified.
– References. Included are lesson plans, DOE Headquarters and site
orders/manuals, and site policy documents containing requirements for objectives
being tested.
• Conduct of a drill requires that the instructor adhere to the Emergency Plan. This
ensures that the training provides an accurate and valid representation of the
emergency management program. Feedback from the instructor during the training is
essential.
Guidelines for conduct of a drill include:
– Explain the purpose and objectives of the training drill/practical application.
– Maintain a calm and professional attitude.
– Question to verify the knowledge gained by participants.
– When there is a deficiency, stop the drill/application and provide immediate
corrective action.
– Provide fact-based feedback.
– Respect participants’ experience and expertise.
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• Assessment requires the instructor to document results of training drills in a formal
report. Consider including the following elements:
– Description of the drill. Describe the conditions under which the test was
performed and specifics of who participated.
– Summary of performance. Describe what was observed during the training drill.
Include not only positives, but also opportunities for performance improvement.
– Results. Analyze data to describe observed performance against the performance
standards from the objectives.
– Remediation/corrective actions. List and discuss recommendations for
emergency response measures that did not meet requirements. Identify the
individuals or organizations for corrective actions. If remedial training is
required, identify the schedule for conducting the training. Both immediate and
long-term solutions should be addressed.
Tabletop Activities. Tabletop activities represent a cost-effective type of training drill
experience during which emergency responders have an opportunity to interact with other
response positions and learn their individual responsibilities, decision-making functions,
and communication requirements in the context of these interactions. Tabletops may
range from lecture and guided discussion to a detailed verbal simulation of response to a
particular scenario. The instructor and/or students verbally walk-down response to a
facility-specific scenario to illustrate the overall direction the response is taking and to
clarify participant perceptions of their roles.
Learning objectives for a tabletop will determine the focus of the activity (e.g., overall
coordination versus detailed problem-solving). Because of the inherent flexibility of this
approach, trainers are free to structure the training experience creatively, controlling
scenario time and trainee activity. However, a tabletop requires significant preparation to
ensure that objectives are satisfied. The instructor must be skilled to facilitate and record
the training session. A co-instructor or recorder can also be used to note questions and
problems to be addressed later through procedure revisions, additional training, or
agreements between response groups. If a tabletop involves multiple response groups or
a detailed or highly technical scenario, then representatives of the involved groups/
agencies or technical specialists should be involved in the planning of the activity to
ensure that scenario details, procedures, and expected response actions are correct.
Section 43
Typical topics for the focus of tabletop training activities may include:
• Coordination and interfaces between the site and offsite agencies
• Emergency Operations Center (EOC) management decision-making
• Interfaces within the JIC
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• Interfaces between site response groups (e.g., Health Physics, Security, Fire
Department)
• Hostage negotiations
• Emergency categorization/classification
DOE G 151.1-3 3-1
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3. EXERCISES
3.1 Introduction
The purpose of this chapter is to assist DOE and NNSA field elements in complying with
the DOE O 151.1C requirement to establish a formal exercise program that validates all
elements of a facility/site or activity emergency management program over a 5-year
period. The exercise program should validate both facility- and site-level emergency
management program elements by initiating a response to simulated, realistic emergency
events or conditions in a manner that, as nearly as possible, replicates an integrated
emergency response to an actual event.
Planning and preparation for exercise conduct should use an effective, structured
approach that includes documentation of specific objectives, scope, timelines, injects,
controller instructions, and evaluation criteria. Each exercise should be based on a
realistic scenario derived from the facility/site or activity Emergency Planning Hazards
Assessment (EPHA) and must be conducted, controlled, evaluated, and critiqued
effectively and reliably. Lessons learned from the exercise evaluation should be
developed to ensure that corrective actions are implemented and improvements are made
to the program.
Requirements, development, and implementation of an exercise program, including
program planning and management, are addressed in this chapter. Guidance is provided
on the design and development of an exercise including: scheduling, work planning,
determining objectives, and production of an exercise plan. Exercise conduct, control,
and evaluation processes are also described.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Homeland Security Exercise and
Evaluation Program (HSEEP) is a Federal-level exercise program developed by the DHS
for State, county and local emergency management programs. The DHS approach
addresses not only Homeland Security sponsored exercises, but also those exercises
where Federal level agencies may interact with State, county and local emergency
management programs. Therefore, to ensure consistency with the DHS approach to
exercise development, conduct, and evaluation, common exercise concepts and processes
of the HSEEP are incorporated in the guidance presented in this chapter using DHS
terminology where applicable.
Two generic types of exercises will be defined in this chapter based on HSEEP exercise
methodology: discussion-based exercises and operations-based exercises. Although
both types can play a significant role in facility/site and activity preparedness activities,
the guidance in this chapter will focus primarily on operations-based exercises, which are
the subject of emergency management program requirements specified in
DOE O 151.1C.
An easy-to-use computer-based tool for developing DOE emergency exercises, the
Exercise Builder, has been developed by participants in the Emergency Management
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Section 44
Issues Special Interest Group (EMI SIG) Exercises and Drills Subcommittee, under the
sponsorship of the DOE/HQ Office of Emergency Management. It makes available
generic exercise components such as scenarios, objectives and criteria and provides a PC-
based application that can be used to develop exercise packages. End products include
exercise scopes, objectives, scenario materials, and evaluator modules. Once exercise
packages have been developed, they can be modified for future use.
Training is also available for using Exercise Builder. Web-based tutorials are available to
prepare emergency management staff to plan and develop exercise/drill objectives and
scenario materials. Information for obtaining this training and the Exercise Builder tool
can be found on the following website: http://www.orise.orau.gov/emi.
This chapter is designed primarily for facilities/sites and activities that are required to
implement an Operational Emergency Hazardous Material Program and is directed at
operations and emergency management staff at Field Elements and operating contractor
organizations that are responsible for DOE and NNSA facilities/sites and activities.
3.2 General Approach
Emergency management exercises are formal, evaluated tests and demonstrations of the
integrated capabilities of facility/site and activity emergency response resources
(i.e., personnel, facilities, and equipment), conducted for the purpose of testing/validating
multiple elements of an emergency management program. Exercises include realistic
simulations of emergencies and tests of response capabilities, such as command, control,
and communication functions and event-scene activities. Exercises can vary significantly
in scope, size, and complexity to achieve their respective objectives.
A valid test of response capabilities requires a formal and structured approach for
planning, developing, and conducting each exercise. Exercise-specific objectives are
used to specify the emergency response functions to be tested. Exercise objectives must
be well defined and achievable. The set of objectives should effectively define the pre-
determined extent of organization/personnel participation and scope (i.e., breadth and
depth) of exercise activities to be accomplished or simulated. The scenario must be
based on the specific hazards associated with the facility/site or activity that is the focus
of the emergency. The scenario must provide the opportunity for participating
organizations/personnel to demonstrate each objective in order to evaluate the function or
activity. The flow of the scenario timeline and events must be effectively controlled and
the response of the participants must be realistic and professional. An effective
evaluation and critique process, based on specific evaluation criteria, ensures clear and
useful findings are accurately developed and ultimately will lead to lessons learned and
corrective actions resulting in an improved emergency management program.
General guidance in this chapter is primarily applicable to operations-based exercises
throughout the DOE/NNSA complex at all levels of the emergency response
organization: facility, site, Cognizant Field Elements, and Headquarters levels for
DOE/NNSA Federal and contractor organizations, including the response activities of the
Radiological Emergency Response Assets and Transportation Emergency Preparedness
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Section 45
Program. This guidance follows the DOE/NNSA commensurate with hazards approach
to emergency management. Guidance is provided for facilities/sites and activities with
varying types and levels of hazards and with differing organizational structures and
complexity.
Functional aspects of planning, development, and conduct of exercises are addressed, but
not roles and responsibilities of specific organizations or individuals. Requirements,
development, and implementation of an emergency management exercise program,
including program planning and management, are presented. Guidance is provided on
design and development of an exercise including scheduling, work planning, determining
objectives, and production of an exercise package. Conduct, control, and the evaluation
process for exercises are also described.
3.3 Exercise Program
A formal exercise program ensures testing and validation of the elements of a facility/site
or activity emergency management program over a 5-year period. The program should
provide a continuing series of periodically conducted exercises to evaluate emergency
response capabilities and to provide assurances that members of the ERO are prepared to
respond promptly, efficiently, and effectively to an actual emergency. The program
includes a plan for validating all elements of each program by incorporating specific
objectives in exercises over the planning period. The exercise program includes
provisions for incorporating specific exercise objectives in each exercise designed to:
• Periodically test specific aspects of emergency response
• Validate plans/procedures
• Validate implemented corrective actions
• Test program improvements
• Evaluate notifications and communications
A formal exercise program should be established and maintained for each DOE/NNSA
facility/site or activity to address the following:
• Long-range planning and scheduling for future exercises, and short-range planning
for the current year’s exercises
• Overall planning, preparation, conduct, control, and evaluation of exercises
• Development of comprehensive exercise objectives based upon Base Program and
Hazardous Material Program requirements from DOE O 151.1C and program-specific
EPHAs
• Development of exercises commensurate with, and based upon, the facility/site
hazards and types of scenarios identified in the EPHAs
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• Application of sufficient resources to the exercise program
• Roles and responsibilities of all aspects of the exercise development, conduct, and
evaluation process are assigned
Long- and short-range program planning should include:
• A long-range plan to be prepared and maintained as part of the Emergency Readiness
Assurance Plan (ERAP). The long-range plan should be developed in concert with
the various organizations affected by its provisions. The plan should include the
general schedule, scope, and objectives of the exercise over a 5-year period and
provide for demonstrating all aspects of the emergency program in a systematic and
comprehensive manner.
• A short-range plan to address fiscal year planning. It should include the scope,
exercise objectives, participants, and schedule for the major tasks and activities
associated with the current year’s exercise(s). Planning and scheduling for a specific
exercise includes confirming or modifying the planned scope, developing detailed
objectives, committing the participants and resources, and identifying and scheduling
the various activities.
Section 46
• Each organization should identify a single individual who is responsible for the
exercise program. Depending on the organization’s size and the scope/complexity of
the exercise program, these responsibilities may be the primary or collateral duties of
the individual. Responsibilities include the authority or capability to commit and
coordinate the resources necessary for an effective exercise program. Exercise
program functions to be performed by the designated individual should include the
following:
• Resolving conflicts identified during the exercise scheduling process.
• Concurring on the scope and objectives of each exercise.
• Coordinating organizational resources for development, conduct, response, and
critique of an exercise.
• Monitoring potential programmatic impacts from the exercise development process,
as well as resolving any specific exercise development difficulties or conflicts.
• Coordinating with the training and drill program to ensure that all participants have
completed their required fundamental emergency management training (not specific
to an exercise) prior to a scheduled exercise.
3.4 Types of Exercises
Various types of exercises can be used to test and validate DOE/NNSA facility/site and
activity emergency response capabilities. The type used will be based on DOE/NNSA
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requirements and the identified goals of the exercise, and can include discussion-based
and operations-based exercises.
3.4.1 Discussion-Based Exercises
Discussion-based exercises are used as a starting point in the building block approach to
the cycle, mix, and range of exercises. Discussion-based exercises include seminars,
workshops, tabletop exercises (TTXs), and games. These types of exercises highlight
existing plans, policies, mutual aid agreements, and procedures. Discussion-based
exercises typically focus on strategic, policy-oriented issues and are ideal tools for
familiarizing agencies and personnel with current or expected jurisdictional capabilities.
Facilitators and/or presenters usually lead the discussion, keeping participants on track
while meeting the objectives of the exercise.
NOTE: Although referred to as “exercises” in DHS terminology, discussion-based exercises can
accomplish evaluation functions similar to several frequently used techniques for conducting DOE
emergency management program evaluations. These include emergency plan and procedure reviews,
interviews, Limited Scope Performance Tests (LSPT) and tabletop drills (both of which are scenario-
based discussions between evaluators and interviewees). Chapter 4, Section 4.5 of DOE G 151.1-3
describes some of these readiness assurance evaluation techniques.
A. Seminars
Seminars are used to orient participants to, or provide an overview of, authorities,
strategies, plans, policies, procedures, protocols, response resources, and new
concepts/ideas. Seminars can be a starting point when developing or making major
changes to plans and procedures. Seminars offer the following attributes:
• Low-stress environment employing a number of instruction techniques such as
lectures, multimedia presentations, panel discussions, case study discussions,
expert testimony, and decision support tools
• Informal discussions led by a seminar leader
• Lack of time constraints caused by real-time portrayal of events
• Effective with both small and large groups
B. Workshops
Section 47
Workshops, while similar to seminars, differ in two important aspects: player
interaction is increased and the focus is on achieving or building a product (such as a
plan or a policy). Workshops provide an ideal forum for:
• Collecting or sharing information
• Obtaining new or different perspectives
• Testing new ideas, processes, or procedures
• Training groups in coordinated activities
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• Problem solving of complex issues
• Obtaining consensus
• Team building
Workshops, used in conjunction with operations-based exercise development, are
useful in achieving specific aspects of exercise design (e.g., determining program or
exercise objectives, developing exercise scenario and key events listings, and
determining evaluation elements and standards of performance).
A workshop may be used to produce new emergency operating procedures, mutual
aid agreements, Multiyear Exercise Plans, and Improvement Plans (IPs). Workshops
share the following common attributes:
• Low-stress environment
• No-fault forum
• Employ different instructional techniques to convey information
• Facilitated, working breakout sessions
• Plenum discussions led by a workshop leader
• Goals oriented toward an identifiable product
• Lack of time constraint from real-time portrayal of events
• Effective with both small and large groups
C. Tabletop Exercise (TTX)
TTXs generally involve senior staff, elected or appointed officials, or other key
personnel in an informal setting in which situations are discussed that arise during
simulated scenarios. The TTX can be used to assess response plans, policies, and
procedures, or types of systems needed to mitigate and respond to the specific
emergency event. The TTX is typically aimed at facilitating understanding of
concepts, identifying strengths and weaknesses, and/or achieving a change in attitude.
The TTX format focuses on slow-paced problem solving rather that the rapid,
spontaneous decision-making that occurs during actual emergencies or operations-
based exercises.
TTX methods can be divided into two categories: basic and advanced. In a basic
TTX, the scene set by the scenario remains constant. The emergency event is
described to the participants up to a certain point in time. The leader is then
presented with a set of problems to be discussed by participants, resolved by the
group, and summarized by the leader. In an advanced TTX, play is initiated through
injects to the participants that alter the original scenario. The exercise controller
usually introduces problems one at a time in the form of written injects; participants
then discuss the problems, using appropriate plans and procedures.
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The TTX can have the following attributes:
• Practicing group problem solving
• Familiarizing senior officials with a situation
• Conducting a specific case study
• Examining personnel contingencies
• Testing group message interpretation
• Participating in information sharing
• Assessing coordination among participants
• Achieving limited or specific objectives
D. Games
A game is a simulation of operations that often involves two or more teams, usually
in a competitive environment, using rules, data, and procedures designed to depict an
actual or assumed real-life situation. It does not involve the use of actual resources,
and the sequence of events affects, and is in turn affected by, the decisions made by
the players. Games stress the importance of planner and player understanding and
comprehension of interrelated processes.
Section 48
Players are presented with scenarios and asked to perform a task associated with a
scenario episode. As each episode moves to the next level of detail or complexity, it
takes into account players’ earlier decisions; thus, the decisions made by players
determine the flow of the game. The goal is to explore decision-making processes
and the consequences of those decisions. In a game, the same situation can be
examined from various perspectives by changing the variables and parameters that
guide player actions. Large-scale games can be multi-jurisdictional and include
active participation from Federal, Tribal, State, and local governments.
Games are excellent vehicles for the following:
• Gaining policy or process consensus
• Conducting “what-if” analyses of existing plans
• Developing new plans
3.4.2 Operations-Based Exercises
Operations-based exercises represent the next iteration of the exercise cycle and can be
used to validate the plans, policies, agreements, and procedures, possibly solidified in
previous discussion-based exercises. Operations-based exercises include drills,
functional exercises (FEs), and full-scale exercises (FSEs). They can clarify roles and
responsibilities, identify gaps in resources needed to implement plans and procedures,
and improve individual and team performance. Operations-based exercises are
characterized by actual response, mobilization of apparatus and resources, and
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commitment of personnel, usually over an extended period of time. Operations-based
exercises play the primary role in the readiness assurance program for a facility/site and
will be the focus of much of the guidance in this chapter.
A. Drills
According to the DHS exercise program HSEEP, a drill is a coordinated, supervised
activity usually employed to test a single specific operation or function. Drills are
also commonly used to provide training on new equipment, develop or test new
policies or procedures, or practice and maintain current skills. Typical attributes
include:
• A narrow focus, measured against established standards
• Realistic environment
• Performance in isolation
• Instant feedback
• Opportunity to stop, correct/educate, and restart
In Chapter 2 of DOE G 151.1-3, the drill program is focused on drills as part of the
overall training program, whereas in this chapter the focus is on the role of drills as
operations-based exercises, employed to test operations or functions.
B. Functional Exercise (FE)
The FE is designed to test and evaluate individual capabilities, multiple functions or
activities within a function, or interdependent groups of functions. The FE is
generally focused on exercising the plans, policies, procedures, and staffs of the
direction and control nodes of Incident Command (IC) and Unified Command (UC).
Generally, events are projected through an exercise scenario with event updates that
drive activity at the management level. Movement of personnel and equipment is
simulated.
The objective of the FE is to execute specific plans and procedures and apply
established policies, plans, and procedures under crisis conditions, within or by
particular functional teams. An FE simulates the reality of operations in a functional
area by presenting complex and realistic problems that require rapid and effective
responses by trained personnel in a highly stressful environment. Attributes of an FE
include:
• Evaluating functions
Section 49
• Evaluating Emergency Operations Centers (EOCs), Headquarters, and staff
• Reinforcing established policies and procedures
• Measuring resource adequacy
• Examining facility or site internal relationships
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C. Full-Scale Exercise (FSE)
The FSE is the most complex of the operations-based exercises. FSEs are exercises
that test many aspects of an integrated emergency response. An FSE focuses on
implementing, analyzing, and evaluating plans, policies, and procedures. Events are
projected through a scripted exercise scenario with built-in flexibility to allow
updates to drive activity. A FSE is conducted in a real-time, stressful environment
that closely mirrors a real event. First responders and resources are mobilized and
deployed to the scene where they conduct their actions, as nearly as possible, as if a
real incident had occurred.
The FSE simulates the reality of operations in multiple functional areas by presenting
complex and realistic problems requiring critical thinking, rapid problem solving, and
effective responses by trained personnel in a highly stressful environment. Other
entities that are not involved in the exercise, but would be involved in an actual event,
should be instructed not to respond. Typical FSE attributes include:
• Assessing organizational and individual performance
• Demonstrating interagency cooperation
• Allocating resources and personnel
• Assessing equipment capabilities
• Activating personnel and equipment
• Assessing inter-agency cooperation
• Exercising public information systems
• Testing communications systems and procedures
• Analyzing memorandums of understanding (MOUs), standard operating
procedures (SOPs), plans, policies, and procedures
The level of support needed to conduct a FSE is greater than needed during other
types of exercises. The exercise site is usually extensive with complex site logistics.
Food and water must sometimes be supplied to participants and volunteers. Safety
issues, including those surrounding the use of props and special effects, must be very
closely monitored.
3.5 DOE/NNSA Exercise Requirements
DOE O 151.1C contains specific requirements associated with the conduct of operations-
based exercises for DOE/NNSA facilities/sites or activities. The following specific
exercise requirements apply:
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A. Facility Requirements. Each DOE/NNSA facility [or group of facilities with
common facility-level Emergency Response Organization (ERO) positions] must test
and demonstrate the proficiency of personnel in facility-level ERO positions in
accomplishing facility-specific emergency response duties and responsibilities in a
facility operations-based exercise, including facility-level evaluation and critique, at
least annually. Evaluations of annual facility exercises by Departmental entities
(e.g., Cognizant Field Element, Program Secretarial Officer, or Headquarters Office
of Health, Safety, and Security) must be performed periodically so that each facility
has an external Departmental evaluation at least every 3 years. [These facility-level
operations-based exercises can exhibit a number of the defining characteristics of
functional exercises (FEs) in HSEEP terminology].
Section 50
B. Site Requirements. A site operations-based exercise is designed to test and
demonstrate integrated emergency response capabilities of personnel in facility- and
site-level ERO positions. Site-level ERO elements and resources must participate in
a minimum of one site operations-based exercise annually. For multi-facility sites,
the basis for the exercise should be rotated among facilities or groups of facilities on a
site. [In general, site-level operations-based exercises may be considered full-scale
exercises (FSEs) in HSEEP terminology].
A site operations-based exercise that involves participation of offsite response
organizations is referred to as a full participation operations-based exercise.
According to DOE O 151.1C, offsite response organizations must be invited to
participate in a site-level exercise at least once every 3 years. [In general, a full
participation operations-based exercise may be considered a full-participation FSE.]
C. Specific Activity Requirements. Operations-based exercises of each of the
Department’s radiological emergency response assets must be conducted at least once
every 3 years.
D. No-Notice Exercises (NNXs). Contractor facilities/sites and activities participate in
a program of No-Notice Exercises, conducted in concert with and at the discretion of
the Associate Administrator, Office of Emergency Operations, to determine if the
facility/site or activity ERO accomplishes selected objectives, based on applicable
plans, procedures, and/or other established requirements. Although generally
operations-based exercises, NNXs can use the discussion-based exercise format if the
specific objectives can be accomplished.
The NNX is designed to require minimum resource expenditure and cause only
limited disruption of facility/site or activity operations. In addition to participation of
initial responders, the site/facility organization assigns a “trusted agent” to assist in
the identification of a credible emergency scenario and to provide facility- /site-
specific information. The Headquarters (HQ) DOE/NNSA Office of Emergency
Management schedules (with facility/site or activity concurrence), conducts, and
documents the NNX and its evaluation, including the development and coordination
of the exercise design package, providing an exercise director and
controllers/evaluators, conducting participant and formal controller/evaluator
critiques, and producing an After Action Report (AAR).
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The primary purpose of the NNX is to provide an objective test of the ability of key
elements of emergency response capabilities to respond without prior notice to a
simulated Operational Emergency. NNXs are currently focused on initial activation,
mobilization, and response activities in six program elements:
• ERO – Activation and mobilization of key elements of the ERO
• Emergency Categorization and Classification – Categorization/classification of
the simulated emergency event
• Notification and Communication - Initial and follow-up notifications and
communications
• Consequence Assessment – Initial assessments of the emergency [e.g., Timely
Initial Assessments (TIA)]
• Protective Actions – Determination of initial protective actions and offsite
protective action recommendations
• Emergency Public Information – Initial activities (e.g., initial press release)
Section 51
The NNX provides a low-impact and low-cost opportunity to test the initial aspects of an
emergency response and to enhance key initial function. The NNX is deliberately
designed to minimize resources necessary for exercise planning, conduct, control, and
evaluation. The NNX is characterized by a limited number of exercise objectives and
either no effort or a minimal development effort expended on characterizing the
consequences of the event for use by controllers during the exercise. An essential
component of the NNX exercise is a limited disruption of normal operations that usually
ensures the exercise will be of short duration (e.g., 2 to 3 hours).
The frequency for including NNXs in an annual readiness assurance program for a
facility/site or activity should be based on the need for validating lessons learned;
reevaluating areas based on observations during prior training, drills, or exercises; or
validating recently implemented or revised plans and procedures without incurring the
cost and impact of the facility- or site-level exercise.
3.6 Exercise Planning
This section addresses generic aspects of exercise planning. Planning for an exercise is
fully documented by an exercise plan that includes: specific exercise objectives, scope,
scenario, participants, simulations, timelines, injects (i.e., messages), technical data,
safety and security provisions, controller instructions, and evaluation criteria. Planning
should be coordinated among onsite ERO components and offsite organizations or groups
regarding their respective participation and exercise objectives.
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3.6.1 Exercise Planning Team
The exercise planning team is responsible for designing, developing, conducting, and
evaluating all aspects of an exercise. The planning team determines exercise design
objectives, tailors the scenario to the needs of the participating organizations, and
develops documentation used in exercise evaluation, control, and simulation. Planning
team members also help with developing and distributing pre-exercise materials and
conducting exercise briefings and training sessions. Due to this high level of
involvement, planning team members are ideal selections for controller and evaluator
positions during the exercise itself.
An Exercise Director manages the exercise planning team (also referred to as the Lead
Exercise Planner or Exercise Planning Team Leader). The team should be a manageable
size and include a representative from each major participating onsite and offsite
emergency response organization/agency, with team membership modified to fit the type
or scope of an exercise, (e.g., an operations-based exercise may require more logistical
coordination than a discussion-based exercise). Depending on the individual exercise,
planning team members can be drawn from a variety of response disciplines within a
DOE/NNSA facility/site (e.g., fire/hazardous materials, emergency medical services,
security, emergency management, occupational health, and emergency public
information). The planning team may expand or contract in size according to the scope
of a given exercise, causing a member or group leader to assume additional roles.
Exercise planning teams should follow a combination of common considerations and
principles, including:
• Exercise planning teams can be efficient and effective when they adhere to an
Incident Command System (ICS)-based structure.
Section 52
• Planning teams should be formed in advance of the exercise to ensure adequate time
for effective planning, preparation, and review of the exercise package.
• Members assigned to these teams should be familiar with emergency plans and
procedures in their areas of technical expertise and be experienced in exercise
development.
• Team members may work independently or meet in subgroups to develop their
respective parts of the scenario; members can participate in more than one team, if
necessary.
• Effective project management ensures identification, development, and management
of critical and supportive tasks; frequent communication about project status; and use
of management plans and timelines (e.g., task schedules, Gant charts).
• Exercise planning team members should be aware of both their individual
responsibilities and team responsibilities. Tasks should be identified and assigned to
an appropriate planning team member, and clear deadlines should be established.
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• Subject matter experts (SMEs) should be used in the planning process to ensure that a
realistic and challenging scenario is chosen. For example, in a biological terrorism
scenario, public health departments and hospitals will have larger roles than special
weapons and tactics teams or the bomb squad.
• Certain exercise objectives may require detailed technical or specialty areas of
expertise for the development of scenarios, injects, and data. In these situations, a
special team can be formed. Typically, this expertise is in specific areas or
disciplines such as process operations, health physics, medical, chemistry, safety
engineering, or plume modeling.
• Team members should demonstrate appropriate leadership principles, including
mentoring, motivation, discipline, personnel management, and time management.
Team leaders and members should delegate tasks as necessary. Planning team
members should strive toward group and common goals, using all available expertise
while fostering creativity.
• Team members should implement standardized processes (such as incorporating task,
time, and project management) into exercise design and development. Exercise
planning meetings/conferences should be scheduled to develop and review tasks and
outputs.
• Both DOE/NNSA and contractor senior management representatives should be
briefed to gain their support.
• Coordination with the emergency management training program manager (if
designated as a trusted agent) should occur in the exercise planning stage. This
allows sufficient time before an exercise is conducted to satisfy any new management
training or qualification requirements (not specific to an exercise).
Exercise planners are to consider themselves as trusted agents and understand that, in
most cases, they will participate as facilitators or SMEs, rather than as participants.
Planning team members, as a general rule, are not exercise players except at smaller, less
populated DOE/NNSA facilities with limited emergency response/ management
capabilities. In those cases, exercise planning team members who act as both planners
and players should be especially careful not to divulge exercise information in advance.
3.6.2 Exercise Planning Functions
Development and conduct of a DOE/NNSA exercise requires a structured and
coordinated planning process. For each exercise, the following list includes several key
functions or activities that should be accomplished at some level, depending on the type
and scale of the exercise:
Section 53
• Development, documentation, and scheduling.
– Scope - Who, what, where, how, and why of the exercise.
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– Objectives - Specific objectives provide the basis for evaluating/validating the
performance of response capabilities by each participating organization. Each
exercise objective should clearly state what is to be demonstrated and be specific,
attainable, and measurable.
– Participants - Who will plan the exercise and who will respond, control, and
evaluate. Any limitations or simulations regarding their participation are
identified and documented.
– Safety - Safety is an integral part of each exercise. The exercise should be
conducted in a manner that protects workers and other personnel and does not
cause harm to the environment.
– Security - Instructions on facility access, use of firearms, and classification issues.
– Scenario – Technically accurate mechanism developed to provide responders with
the opportunity to meet objectives. The scenario is consistent with the set of
exercise objectives and explicitly supports an evaluation/validation of each
objective.
– Budget - What the exercise will cost to plan, conduct, and evaluate, and the
financial obligations of participating organizations.
– Logistical Support - Specific responsibilities for support activities.
– Administrative Activities - Procurement, documentation, and reproduction
responsibilities.
– Public Affairs Plan - A public information/education plan should be developed,
especially for full-participation site-level operations-based exercise, to coordinate
activities with appropriate offsite State, Tribal, and local authorities, the media,
and the public. This plan should be developed early in the planning process to
ensure coordination with interested offsite authorities/officials.
• Oversight of the exercise development process.
• Exercise control
• Exercise evaluation and critiques
• Exercise AAR
• Implementation of corrective actions
These key functions or activities should be reflected in the Exercise Planning Team
structure presented next.
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3.6.3 Exercise Planning Team Position Descriptions
Providing exercise planning team members with clearly stated roles and responsibilities,
along with assigned specific tasks and completion timelines, will facilitate the exercise
planning process by ensuring that tasks are not overlooked, forgotten, or identified only
at the last minute. Regardless of the size of an exercise planning team certain core
groups must be formed as described below:
Exercise Director/Lead Exercise Planner
• Overall responsibility for exercise planning, development, conduct, and evaluation
Planning Group
• Schedules exercise activities
• Determines exercise scope, objectives, participants, and planning schedule
• Develops scenario guidelines
• Coordinates administrative, logistics, safety, and security activities
• Maintains fiscal responsibility
Scenario Development Group
• Includes members from all participating organizations
• Coordinates development, assembly, and production of exercise package
• Develops scenario component, including, for example – scenario narrative, Master
Scenario Events List (MSEL), time line, injects and messages, and the exercise
technical data
Control Group
• Responsible for the safe and effective conduct of the exercise
• Exercise control
• Safety
Evaluation Group
• Responsible for observing, evaluating, and critiquing the exercise
Section 54
Other planning groups (tasks may be separated from above main teams)
• Administration/Logistics
• Communications
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• Technical data preparation
• Security/safety
• Public information
• Visitors
If an ICS management model is used for organizing the Exercise Planning Team, then the
groups described above will be formed under the headings of core ICS groups:
Command Group, Operations Group, Planning Group, Logistics Group, and
Administration Group (Cf. HSEEP reference).
During the planning process, as tasks increase in frequency and complexity, the planning
team grows. It may be necessary to expand positions to include several functional
experts or SMEs and additional logistical support or service staff. Many large, complex
exercises may start with a planning team that fills most, if not all, of the organizational
structure represented by the groups indicated above.
3.6.4 Exercise Planning Meetings/Conferences
The Exercise Director/Lead Exercise Planner and the exercise planning team should
decide on the number of meetings needed to successfully conduct a given exercise. To
effectively host planning meetings, the Exercise Director needs access to information on
the program, its objectives, and its flexibilities and limitations. Listed below are basic
descriptions of primary objectives for each type of planning meeting along with
information on tools (e.g., agendas, draft documents, checklists, and presentations) used
to assist the exercise planning team in designing, developing, and conducting an exercise.
Providing advance information to the planning team members significantly enhances the
efficiency of a planning meeting. These materials may be provided to team members in a
read-ahead packet, which may include proposed agenda items, any relevant background
information, and expected meeting outcomes. In addition to making the attendees better
informed, a read-ahead packet also allows them to understand the relevancy and
importance of the meeting.
The scope, type (operations- or discussion-based), and complexity of an exercise should
determine the number of meetings necessary to successfully conduct an exercise.
Planning meetings are listed in typical chronological order:
A. Concept and Objectives (C&O) Meeting. The C&O meeting is used to identify the
type, scope, objectives, and purpose of the exercise. Typically attended by the
Exercise Director, management of the sponsoring facility, and DOE and Management
& Operating (M&O) contractor management responsible for other facilities and the
response assets expected to be involved in the exercise, and representatives from
participating offsite response organizations. The formal beginning of the planning
process (when held directly before the Initial Planning Conference/Meeting [IPC])
helps planners identify an overall exercise goal, develop rough drafts of exercise
objectives, and identify exercise planning team members. For less complex exercises
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and for sites or facilities with limited resources, the C&O meeting can be conducted
in conjunction with the IPC.
Possible topics or issues for a C&O meeting include:
• Exercise purpose
• Review of the facility/site or activity
• Review of the applicable EPHA
• Proposed scenario, goals, and objectives
• Exercise location, date, and duration
• Assumptions and artificialities (the scenario is plausible and events occur as they
are presented; there are no hidden agendas or trick questions)
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• Control and evaluation
• Security organization and structure
• Logistics
B. Initial Planning Conference/Meeting (IPC): The IPC lays the foundation for
exercise development. It is used to gather input from the exercise planning team on
the scope, design, requirements and conditions (such as assumptions and
artificialities), objectives, level of participation, and scenario variables (e.g., hazard
selection, venue). The IPC obtains the planning team’s input on exercise location,
schedule, duration, and other details required to develop exercise documentation.
Planning team members should be assigned responsibility for the tasks outlined in the
meeting. Unless a C&O meeting is held, the IPC is typically the first step in the
planning process.
During the IPC, planning team members are assigned responsibility for tasks
associated with designing and developing exercise documents and logistics
(e.g., incident scene management, personnel). In addition to conducting the meeting,
the team should gather appropriate photos and audio recordings for use in preparing
the final documents and/or multimedia presentations used in support of the exercise.
An important discussion point for an IPC includes understanding the rationale for
developing the exercise.
Outcomes expected as a result of an IPC include:
• Clearly defined, obtainable, and measurable objectives
• Identified scenario variables (e.g., threat scenario, number of casualties, venue)
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• Appropriate participants are invited to participate
• SMEs and presenters identified and recruited, if necessary
• Information delivery method identified
• Responsibility assigned for exercise documents and presentations/briefings
• All source documents (e.g., policies, plans, procedures) acquired to draft exercise
documents and presentations
• Responsibility for logistical issues (e.g., registration, badges, invitations)
identified and assigned
• Dates for completion of action items and tasks established
• Planning schedule developed
• Critical tasks for the next planning meeting identified
• Date, time, and location of the next meeting and the actual exercise
In the period between the IPC and the next meeting, exercise planning team members
should prepare their assigned draft exercise documents and presentations. If possible,
these materials should be provided to planning team members in advance of the next
meeting.
C. Mid-Term Planning Conference/Meeting (MPC): Typically employed for
operations-based exercises (e.g., drills, FEs, and FSEs), the MPC presents an
additional opportunity in the planning timeline to settle logistical and organizational
issues that arise during planning (e.g., staffing concepts, scenario and timeline
development, scheduling, logistics, and administrative requirements). It is also a
session to review draft documentation. A MSEL meeting can be held in conjunction
with or separate from the MPC to review the scenario timeline for the exercise.
The second half of the MPC can be devoted to development of the scenario timeline.
If necessary, the exercise planning team may allow sufficient time to conduct a
walkthrough of the exercise site and gather pictures, maps, and other visual aids. The
MPC should be held at, or near, the exercise site to facilitate the walkthrough.
The following outcomes are expected as a result of an MPC:
• Final exercise plan details (if applicable) agreed upon
• Scenario timeline revised
• Documentation revised
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• Scenario injects developed
• Date, time, and location of the Final Planning Conference/Meeting (FPC)
finalized
The time between the MPC and the FPC should be used to finalize the exercise plan,
scenario timeline, and remaining exercise documentation (as determined at the IPC).
D. Master Scenario Events List (MSEL) Meeting: For more complex operations-
based exercises, one or two additional planning meetings, or MSEL meetings, may be
held specifically to review the scenario timeline. If not held separately, MSEL
meetings can be incorporated into the MPC and FPC. The MSEL meeting should
focus on MSEL development.
The MSEL is a chronological list that supplements the exercise scenario with event
synopses, expected/anticipated responses, anticipated timing and location of the
opportunity for meeting exercise objectives, and responsible personnel. The MSEL
should include scenario events that will prompt players to implement the plans,
policies, and procedures that planners want the exercise to test. The MSEL identifies
the timing and summary content of all key events, messages, or injects and
contingency messages. It should also establish the methods that will be used to inject
each particular event (e.g., phone call, fax, radio call, e-mail).
In developing the MSEL, the exercise planning team must first consider tasks,
conditions, and standards set forth by each exercise objective (as determined during
the IPC). A task consists of performing a function or activity that demonstrates the
ability to accomplish an objective. A condition is the environment in which a task is
performed and can be established by the scenario or through the MSEL. Standards
are the criteria by which each task is evaluated. The planning team determines if
tasks were completed; this allows evaluation to take place.
If scenario conditions do not stimulate the appropriate behavior, the planning team
must develop a MSEL entry to explain the situation. A well-written entry considers
the following:
• If the entry is a key event (i.e., is it directly related to meeting an exercise
objective)
• The target behavior, who will demonstrate the target behavior, and what will
stimulate the behavior (e.g., course of play, phone call, actor, video)
• What/Who originates the stimulant, who receives it, and how is it received
• What the expected action is
• A contingency inject in case the behavior fails to be demonstrated
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Once the MSEL is drafted, the exercise planning team should coordinate and
sequence entries and resolve any conflicts between events, thus forming a credible
and challenging MSEL that will enhance the exercise experience for the players. It is
essential that the final MSEL be reviewed with quality assurance procedures in mind.
E. Final Planning Conference/Meeting (FPC): The FPC provides a forum to review
the process and procedures for conducting the exercise, final drafts of all exercise
materials, and all logistical requirements. There should be no major changes made to
either the design or the scope of the exercise or to any supporting documentation.
The FPC ensures that all logistical requirements have been arranged, all outstanding
issues have been identified and resolved, and all exercise products are ready for
printing. The FPC should be located in close proximity to the planned exercise site to
allow a final site walkthrough. The facility should be conducive to discussion and
accomplishment of work-related tasks.
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The following items should be addressed during the FPC:
• Resolve any open issues related to exercise planning and identify last-minute
concerns that may arise
• Review all exercise logistical tasks (e.g., schedule, registration, attire, special
needs)
• Conduct a comprehensive final review of and approve all exercise documents and
presentation materials
The FPC should not generate any significant changes or surprises. Outcomes should
include finalization of exercise documents and multimedia presentation materials for
production, identification and resolution of last-minute issues, and coordination of
other support requirements (e.g., A/V equipment, room configuration and setup,
refreshments, and schedule). Final approval of exercise processes and procedures
should occur.
Contact should be maintained between all exercise planning team members regarding
any outstanding issues, especially issues related to the logistics for conducting the
exercise. The planning team should finalize all publications, prepare all supporting
materials, rehearse presentations and briefings, and prepare to conduct the exercise.
Prior to the exercise, information and documentation should be disseminated to
appropriate personnel (e.g., presenters, facilitators, controllers, evaluators,
simulators).
3.6.5 Exercise Planning Schedule
Planning and scheduling an exercise requires the involvement and cooperation of all
participating organizations. A well planned, executed, and documented exercise requires
the coordination and cooperation of senior management, facility- and site-level EROs,
and, when applicable, offsite response organizations. Participating offsite response
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organizations must be included in the initial planning stages of the exercise. Their
participation may range from the limited staffing of a control cell for the purpose of
receiving notifications to the complete staffing and activation of all applicable response
facilities and assets. In planning the exercise, adequate time should be allowed for
effective preparation and review of the exercise plan.
Table 3-1 contains a sample schedule applicable to a DOE/NNSA complex site-level
exercise; planning times should be adjusted down for smaller scale exercises.
Table 3-1. Sample Planning Schedule for a Site-level Annual Exercise
Calendar Days
Prior
To the Exercise Planning Activity
365 Establish or confirm exercise date.
Establish exercise scope.
270 Establish planning organization.
Confirm scope and level of participation by all organizations.
Develop initial exercise objectives.
180 Verify plans and procedures to be used.
Begin scenario development.
150 Finalize exercise objectives.
90 Submit scenario narrative, scope, MSEL (draft), objectives and participant list to
Cognizant Field Element, Program Secretarial Office and Associate Administrator, Office
of Emergency Operations (NA-40).
60 Complete planning group review/revision of draft Exercise Plan (EXPLAN).
Submit EXPLAN to DOE/NNSA Cognizant Field Element for approval. Plan must be
approved at least 30 days prior to exercise.
30 Submit approved EXPLAN to Program Secretarial Office and Associate Administrator,
Office of Emergency Operations (NA-40).
15 Complete generic controller/evaluator training.
1-5 Conduct exercise-specific controller/evaluator training.
Conduct responder and observer briefings.
1-2 Finalize exercise preparations.
Post Exercise Conduct critiques.
Post Exercise 15 Complete draft AAR.
Post Exercise 45
[~30 working days]
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Finalize AAR and submit a copy to Cognizant Field Element, Program Secretarial Office
and Associate Administrator, Office of Emergency Operations (NA-40).
Post Exercise 85
[~60 working days]
Develop/prepare corrective and improvement actions and submit a copy to Cognizant
Field Element, Program Secretarial Office and Associate Administrator, Office of
Emergency Operations (NA-40).
3.7 Exercise Documentation
Typical exercise documents resulting from the efforts of the Exercise Planning Team are
addressed in the following sections. They provide essential components for preparing,
conducting, and evaluating exercises.
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3.7.1 Situation Manual (SITMAN)
The SITMAN is a participant handbook for discussion-based exercises, particularly
TTXs. It provides background information on the exercise scope, schedule, and
objectives. Also included is the scenario narrative that will drive the participant
discussions during the exercise. The SITMAN should mirror the multimedia briefing and
supporting narrative allowing participants to read along while watching events unfold.
3.7.2 Exercise Plan (EXPLAN)
An EXPLAN or exercise package, typically used for operations-based exercises, is
published and distributed prior to the start of an exercise. The EXPLAN provides a
synopsis of the exercise and addresses the exercise objectives and scope. The EXPLAN
assigns tasks and responsibilities for successful exercise execution and provides
documented components essential for preparation, conduct, and evaluation of the
exercise. The EXPLAN contains all the documentation necessary to control and evaluate
the exercise, however, the extent and detail of the information will vary with the scope
and complexity of the particular exercise.
The EXPLAN contains an explanation of the exercise and provides the documented
components essential for preparation, conduct, and evaluation of the exercise.
Development of an EXPLAN by an exercise planning team involves an iterative process
consisting of several steps:
• Address issues of exercise scope and duration, participants, objectives, administrative
and logistical considerations, and operational or technical constraints
• Develop a scenario timeline, a listing of the sequence and timing of key operational,
technical, and logistical events comprising the scenario
• Refine the timeline, develop detailed scenario information, prepare message injects
(instructions to controllers) and data, and prepare control, evaluation, and other
supporting documentation
This iterative development and refinement process is followed by a final review. Final
review of the EXPLAN is conducted to ensure overall completeness and technical
accuracy and that players/responders are provided the opportunity to meet the exercise
objectives. The EXPLAN should be completed in sufficient time to allow DOE or
NNSA line management and the DOE Associate Administrator of Emergency Operations
to review and comment before the conduct of the exercise. However, some elements of
the EXPLAN, such as, telephone directories or lists containing names of controller/
evaluators will be subject to change up to the conduct of the exercise. Prior to final
review and distribution, a Derivative Classifier (DC) should review the EXPLAN.
The scenario reflects current facility/site- or activity-specific hazards, correlates
technically with the EPHA, and is technically accurate in terms of operations and
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radiological, chemical, and meteorological data. A unique scenario should be developed
for each exercise to prevent responder anticipation of events and to ensure a valid test of
integrated response capabilities. The final approved EXPLAN or exercise package
provides documentation to conduct and evaluate the exercise.
The EXPLAN or exercise package contains all documentation necessary to control and
evaluate the exercise, however, the extent and detail of information will vary with the
scope and complexity of the particular exercise. The format can be tailored by individual
organizations but should include the information outlined below. The exercise web site
at http://www.orise.orau.gov/emi contains specific examples of EXPLANs. A typical
DOE/NNSA EXPLAN includes the following components:
A. Scope and Purpose. All participating organizations, the extent of their participation,
and the organizations being simulated are identified. States the purpose of the
exercise. Contains the type of exercise, the location of the event scene (e.g., specific
facility), facility/site or activity background information, and the date and expected
duration.
B. Exercise Objectives. The objectives are the key to the exercise. Each exercise
objective should clearly state what is to be demonstrated and should be specific,
attainable, and measurable. They should contain specific conditions,
performance/action, and standard of performance to define how the objective is to be
evaluated. Exercise objectives are discussed further in Section 3.8.
Use of an exercise objective matrix is recommended as a tool to facilitate
administration of the exercise program. The matrix should identify all programmatic
exercise objectives and correlate with facility/site- or activity-specific hazards and the
specific objectives to be demonstrated in individual exercises. It should
support/document validation of emergency management Program Elements over the
five-year period. In order to test the interfaces between site security and facility/site
emergency response capability, the exercise program at a DOE/NNSA facility/site
should include security scenario events.
C. Exercise Organization. The exercise organization is comprised of all participants in
the actual conduct of the exercise and includes the following:
• Exercise Director/Lead Exercise Planner ensures exercise conducted according to
the EXPLAN
• Players include actual responders and onsite and offsite organizations
• Evaluators are subject mater experts who observe, monitor, and evaluate player
performance; they are responsible for critiques and final AAR
• Controllers ensure that the exercise proceeds on schedule; monitor the sequence
of events and input contingency injects to keep exercise on time; monitor safety;
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input technical data at appropriate times in the scenario; and, assist with critiques
and the final AAR
• Observers/visitors should have no interaction with players/responders
D. Scenario Narrative. The scenario narrative is a storybook summary of the
background, initial conditions, initiating events, and expected player/responder
actions. It contains descriptions of the simulated emergency situation, including the
overall sequence of events, details, supporting data, and timing of activities.
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The scenario reflects current facility/site- or activity specific hazards, correlates
technically with the EPHA, and is technically accurate in terms of operations,
radiological, chemical, and meteorological data. A unique scenario should be
developed for each exercise to prevent player/responder anticipation of events and to
ensure a valid test of integrated response capabilities.
E. Rules of Conduct. Design and development guidelines are established for each
exercise and include:
• Limitations are management policies and guidelines of concern to the exercise
developers and scenario designers; include issues such as conducting exercises on
weekends, overtime restrictions or authorizations, and financial constraints.
• Protocols (ground rules or rules of conduct) remind players/responders of
drillsmanship and safety issues.
• Pre-approved simulations list the major simulations applicable to the exercise;
may include pre-determined meteorological data, response vehicle red lights,
simulating road blocks without interfering or disrupting public traffic patterns, use
of water to simulate a chemical liquid hazardous materials spill, use of a smoke
generator to simulate fire/smoke, use of protective equipment, simulated
operation of systems/equipment, and photographs to simulate equipment damage.
F. Safety Issues. Safety of personnel and the facility is paramount during exercises. A
major concept of DOE Integrated Safety Management (ISM) is the integration of
safety awareness and good practices into all aspects of work conducted at DOE.
Simply stated, exercises should be conducted in such a manner that protects workers
and other people, and does not cause harm to the environment. Safety is an integral
part of each exercise; it is not a stand-alone program.
The planning process and management of exercises must ensure that sufficient
precautions and limitations are established and followed for safe conduct of the
exercise. A person with the sole responsibility for ensuring safety during the
exercise, such as an exercise safety director, should be appointed to the exercise
planning team.
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During an exercise, all participants must comply with established safety rules and
practices. Participants must understand that safety of exercise participants, non-
participants, the public, and the environment is the highest priority. An exercise
safety plan is an effective method of documenting safety concerns and solutions. The
plan should address generic and specific safety concerns, solutions for mitigating the
problem, and required actions or notifications if a safety concern or emergency occurs
during an exercise.
G. Security and Access Planning. Adherence to security requirements by all
participants in all phases of an exercise is a necessity. Planning and management of
exercises should include provisions for the participation of appropriate security
personnel and should establish parameters for exercise design, development, and
conduct in view of identified security issues. Controllers are responsible for
conducting the exercise within security limitations.
Persons involved in exercise planning must be sensitive to information or activities
that may have security implications. An exercise security plan is an effective method
of documenting security concerns and solutions. This plan should address generic
and specific security concerns, mitigative solutions, and required actions/notifications
if a security problem or emergency occurs during the exercise. Special provisions
should be made for visitors and observers since they may not be familiar with DOE or
site security requirements.
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H. Public Information Planning. Scheduled exercises, especially large scale
operations-based exercises, should be coordinated with the media and announced to
the public. Interfaces with the public and offsite Tribal, State, and local authorities
require management awareness and sensitivity.
The public typically has no involvement or participation in an exercise. However, all
exercises conducted at a facility/site that have the potential to affect the offsite
population, either directly or indirectly, should include adequate provisions to prevent
public concern, rumor, or inconvenience. The planning process and the management
of exercises should provide for the development of a public information/education
plan to coordinate activities with appropriate offsite Tribal, State, and local
authorities, the media, and the public. This plan should be developed early in the
planning process to ensure coordination with interested offsite authorities/ officials.
I. Timeline of Key Scenario Events. The exercise timeline should include key scenario
events and expected responder actions and, where possible, the events and
player/responder actions should be tied to exercise objectives.
J. Message Injects. Message injects include instructions to controllers to begin
simulations, insert information, provide earned information, acting instructions, and
contingency messages. Message injects should contain accurate, unambiguous, and
non-prompting information and technical data for the players/responders and provide
proper direction for the exercise. They should be formatted/presented in a manner as
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to reflect the actual data that would be observed by players/responders in a real event
(e.g., strip charts, alarm printer output, use of accident mock-ups).
K. Exercise Data. Exercise data varies greatly depending on the type and scope of the
exercise. For example, the data requirements for a NNX are limited by design in
order to minimize the resources needed to conduct this type of exercise. The
technical data that supports the scenario, including both general and facility-specific
(e.g., operational, radiological, chemical, medical, meteorological), should be
technically accurate and clearly and unambiguously presented:
• General facility information is especially important when non-facility personnel
participate in the exercise; includes a facility description, (area, site, and facility
maps), mission description, emergency management program information, and a
description of offsite interfaces.
• Specific facility information provides operational data at the time of the event;
may include diagrams, schematics, and data tables that will augment the scenario.
• Meteorological data provides weather conditions and forecasts, both real and
simulated, as required.
• Hazardous material data may include radiation or chemical plume plots and
tables, decontamination levels, and exposure levels; technical basis and
assumptions used to develop this data should be provided.
• Medical information includes a description of medical conditions and moulage
procedures, actor behavior instructions, and vital signs.
L. Exercise Control. The control organization is responsible for controlling the exercise
and is usually depicted on an organizational chart showing the categories of
controllers and lines of communication. The categories of controllers include the lead
controller, timeline coordinator, area controllers, on-scene controllers (i.e., at the
location of the activity to be controlled), the control or simulation cells and their
associated actors. Controllers are assigned by name to each position listed in the
control organization. The controller assignments should include alternates.
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Detailed controller instructions include a schedule of events for all controllers, basic
controller instructions, and requirements for each controller assignment. These
should include the message injects that the controller is responsible for inserting in
the exercise, contingency message injects and the authorization process for their use,
and special equipment required for the position. A special type of controller
instructions, called profiles, can be used for actors to define roles. Profiles are
normally used for media actors in either a control cell or for interviewing in person or
for control cell actors representing political figures (profiles are generally used only
with experienced controllers).
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The Master Scenario Events List (MSEL) identifies the timing and summary
content of all key events, messages, or injects; contingency messages; and expected
responder actions for the duration of the exercise.
Suspension or termination of an exercise is managed through the control organization.
Responders are instructed to contact a controller when an unsafe condition exists or
when a real emergency is identified. This section details the notification of the
control organization, instructions for exercise suspension and re-start, and for exercise
termination.
M. Exercise Evaluation. Exercise evaluation is conducted by the evaluator organization.
The evaluator organization is usually depicted by a chart and description of the
categories of evaluators and lines of communication. The categories of evaluators
include the lead evaluator, lead area evaluators, and evaluators. Evaluators and
alternates are assigned by name and listed in the evaluator organization.
Evaluation criteria provide the standards and activity- or function-specific criteria
used to evaluate an exercise. Evaluator modules and/or checklists display the
expected response in a time-sequenced format used to monitor player/responder
progress. They are based on the exercise objectives, the evaluation criteria, and the
participating organization's plans and procedures.
N. Logistics. A logistics plan is prepared to specify tasks to be accomplished in support
of exercise preparation, conduct, and evaluation. This includes notification of
controllers, obtaining meeting rooms and classrooms, identifying and setting up the
control cell, communications requirements, meals, transportation, facility security
badging/access, and acquiring/staging props (e.g., moulage dummies, smoke
generators, damaged equipment, simulated material).
A method to identify exercise participants and, if necessary, various non-participants
should be documented in this section. Vests, hats, or armbands of various colors can
identify participants. Ensure that the type of participant is printed on the
identification method to assist those with color-impaired vision.
O. Schedule of Events. A master schedule should be developed that addresses all
preparation activities, conduct of the exercise, the critique process, and the evaluation
AAR.
P. Communications Plan. This plan documents radio and telephone requirements. It
provides radio frequencies, protocol, telephone numbers, and directories.
Additionally, it contains information concerning controller communications, training,
and systems testing. Normally the following exercise telephone (communications)
directories are prepared:
• Control Cell Directory provided to responders, which lists the control cell
telephone numbers of controllers simulating individuals or organizations
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• Controller/Evaluator Directory which includes telephone and radio
channels/frequencies used for communication within the control and evaluation
organizations
• Responder Directory is provided to control cell controllers and lists the telephone
numbers of responders who may need to be contacted by the control cell
Q. Glossary of Acronyms. This section contains facility/site- and activity-specific
acronyms and definitions for the benefit of personnel who are not familiar with the
ERO, operations, and facility/site or activity organization.
3.7.3 Controller and Evaluator Documentation
The Controller and Evaluator (C/E) Handbook supplements the EXPLAN by
presenting more detailed information about the exercise scenario and describing exercise
controller and evaluator roles and responsibilities. The C/E should only be distributed to
individuals specifically designated as controllers or evaluators. Larger, more complex
exercises may use the Control Staff Instructions (COSIN) and an Evaluation Plan
(EVALPLAN) in place of, or to supplement, the C/E handbook.
Controllers ensure that player/responder behavior remains within predefined boundaries.
Simulation Cell (SIMCELL) or Control Cell controllers continuously inject scenario
elements to simulate real events. Evaluators observe behaviors and compare them
against established plans, policies, procedures, and standard practices (if applicable).
Safety controllers ensure all activity is executed within a safe environment.
In addition to containing the same information as the EXPLAN, the C/E Handbook
usually contains the following sections:
• Detailed scenario information (including agent fact sheets)
• Assignment of personnel to specific controller/evaluator positions
• Roles and responsibilities of functional area or individual controllers and evaluators
• Controller communications plan
• Exercise Evaluation Guides (EEGs)
The Control Staff Instructions (COSIN) document contains guidance that controllers,
simulators, and evaluators need concerning procedures and responsibilities for exercise
control, simulation, and support. COSINs are typically developed for large-scale,
complex exercises that require more coordination among control staff. The purpose of a
COSIN is to:
• Provide scenario details
• Develop guidelines for control and simulation support
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• Explain the exercise concept as it relates to controllers and simulators
• Establish management structure for these activities
• Establish and define the control structure’s communication, logistics, and
administration
The Master Scenario Events List (MSEL) is a chronological timeline of expected
actions and scripted events to be injected into exercise play by controllers to generate or
prompt player activity. The MSEL ensures that necessary events happen so that all
objectives are met. The MSEL links simulation to action, enhances exercise experience
for players, and reflects an incident or activity that will prompt players to implement the
policy or procedure being tested. Larger, more complex exercises may employ a
Procedural Flow (PROFLOW), which differs from the MSEL in that it only contains
expected player actions or events.
Each MSEL record contains:
• Designated scenario time
• Event synopsis
• Controller responsible for delivering inject, with controller/evaluator special
instructions (if applicable)
• Expected action (player response expected after an MSEL inject is delivered)
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• Intended player (agency or individual player for whom the MSEL inject is intended)
• Objective to be demonstrated (if applicable)
• Notes section (for controllers and evaluators to track actual events against those listed
in the MSEL, with special instructions for individual controllers and evaluators)
Times listed in an MSEL should reflect the times that injects should occur. These times
should be as realistic as possible and should be based on input from functional area
representatives. For example, to determine when triage and treatment should be
established during the exercise, solicit input from emergency medical services (EMS) or
a hospital representative. If the activity occurs sooner than anticipated, the time should
be noted but play should not be interrupted.
There are three types of injects:
• Contextual injects are introduced to a player by a controller to help build the
contemporary operating environment. For example, if the exercise objectives include
information sharing, an MSEL inject can be developed to direct a controller to select
an actor to portray a suspect. The inject message would then instruct the controller to
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prompt another actor to approach a security officer and inform him/her that this
person was behaving suspiciously.
• Earned information injects contain data to be provided to a responder when the
function being performed would yield specific information. For example, when
Emergency Medical Service (EMS) technician(s) begins to treat a patient, vital signs
are provided through these injects when the proper actions to earn them have been
achieved. If the EMS does not perform the appropriate actions, no inject information
is provided.
• Contingency injects are events that should be verbally provided to a player by a
controller if they do not take place. Use of contingency injects during the exercise
should be documented. For example, if a simulated secondary explosive device is
placed at an incident scene but is not discovered, a controller may want to prompt an
actor to approach a player/ first responder and say that he/she witnessed suspicious
activity close to the device location. This should prompt the discovery of the device
by the responder and result in subsequent notification of protective force (perhaps,
specifically, the bomb squad).
MSELs are typically produced in two formats, short and long. Short MSELs list: injects,
the time, a short description, the responsible controller, and a player. These can be used
as a quick reference guide during exercise play. Long MSELs are used when greater
detail is necessary; they include more detailed descriptions, exact quotes for SIMCELL
injects, and descriptions of expected actions.
Message injects are typically used in exercises that involve multiple simulated activities.
These messages are typically delivered via a SIMCELL and are used to simulate the
actions, activities, and conversations of an individual, agency, or organization that is not
participating in the exercise but that would likely be actively involved during a real event.
For example, in an exercise with limited scope, the State Governor’s office may not be
playing. To simulate the activities of the Governor’s office during an emergency event, a
message can be scripted to simulate notification of the mayor. That message can be
delivered by phone through the SIMCELL. This script or message inject should be read
by a simulator acting on behalf of the Governor’s office.
Section 65
Evaluation Plans (EVALPLANs) provide evaluation staff with guidance and
instructions on the evaluation or observation methodology to be used as well as essential
materials required to execute their specific functions. During larger, more complex
exercises, planners may develop an EVALPLAN in lieu of, or in addition to, a C/E
Handbook. The EVALPLAN is a limited distribution document that evaluators use in
conjunction with the EXPLAN and the MSEL. Level of detail varies and can include the
following:
• Exercise overview
• Evaluation control organization
• Evaluation methodology and observation techniques
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• Evaluator roles and responsibilities
• Evaluation communications plan
Exercise Evaluation Guides (EEGs) are developed to assist in exercise evaluation.
They incorporate the critical tasks that should be completed in an exercise. EEGs are
intended for use by both experienced evaluators and SMEs who may have little or no
exercise evaluation experience. EEGs provide evaluators with information on what they
should expect to see at the specific location or in the specific situation. (See Section
3.11)
Controller and Evaluator Packets are provided to controllers and evaluators prior to an
exercise. The packets contain materials that they need to carry out their responsibilities.
These materials can be extracted from the more detailed information found in the C/E
Handbook or the COSIN.
A controller packet should contain:
• Essential C/E Handbook or COSIN information (e.g., scenario and threat/hazard
information, communications, safety, exercise staff organization)
• MSEL (including injects for each responsible controller)
• Maps/directions
These materials should be placed in a packet (e.g., folder, notebook) for ease of use
during the exercise.
3.8 Exercise Objectives
The success of emergency exercises is largely dependent on the quality of the stated
objectives. Exercise objectives provide the basis for developing a meaningful and
challenging scenario, as well as a gauge to measure performance of the response
elements.
3.8.1 Developing Exercise Objectives
Considerations in developing exercise objectives include the following:
• Primary sources of exercise objectives are the participating organization’s emergency
plans and procedures. Other sources may include lessons learned from past exercises,
the specific plans/procedures being exercised, and job-task analyses used to develop
the organizational response structure, requirements, or training.
• A recommended source for the specific exercise objectives to be used in validating
and testing components of the response is the set of performance-based evaluation
criteria contained in Chapter 4, Appendix D of DOE G 151.1-3. Each of the
15 DOE/NNSA emergency management Program Elements has a performance goal
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and a set of evaluation criteria that represent the expected performance to achieve that
goal. An individual criterion or groups of criteria can be used as a single exercise
objective.
• Exercise objectives need to be fully developed for all organizations prior to the
preparation of the scenario script. If offsite organizations are participating in the
exercise, they should develop their own objectives for evaluation during the exercises
and these objectives should be included in the exercise plan. These objectives are not
evaluated by the DOE/NNSA evaluators but should be reviewed to ensure that the
objectives that rely on site input are attainable and measurable. DOE/NNSA should
evaluate the interfaces between DOE/NNSA and the offsite agencies, if this is part of
an exercise objective.
Section 66
• Each exercise objective should clearly state what is to be demonstrated by the
responders
– Is the objective clearly stated? It should be specific, focus on the performance to
be demonstrated, and be interpreted in the same manner by all participants.
– Is the objective attainable? The performance required in the objective must be
attainable (achievable). The function or activity specified must be within the
capabilities of the responders to accomplish.
– Is the objective measurable? The performance addressed by the objective should
have observable and measurable indicators. Specific evaluation criteria should be
developed for measuring performance using a procedure or checklist. The
evaluation criteria given in Appendix D and modified to be facility/site-specific
can be used for the evaluation of exercise objectives.
• Exercise objectives should contain a condition, an action, and a measurable standard.
For example, given an Operational Emergency (condition), activate the EOC (action),
in accordance with the Site EOC Emergency Plan Implementing Procedure
(measurable standard). The condition provides the evaluator an understanding of the
conditions that have to occur prior to the responders taking the action. This allows
the evaluator to position him/herself to observe the action. The action should be
clearly stated and attainable. This is the function that the evaluator will observe and
analyze to report performance. The standard is the plan, procedure, and/or regulatory
requirement listing the steps to be taken by responders to meet the exercise objective.
• For purposes of identifying responsibilities, it is useful to categorize or group
objectives. Typically objectives may be grouped by geographical area (e.g., event
scene, command center, collocated facility), function (e.g., notification, consequence
assessment, protective actions, etc.), by organization (e.g., Operating Contractor,
operations/field office/service center/Headquarters, state, local organizations, etc.), or
by relationship to the DOE facility/site. For example, a grouping by relationship to
the DOE/NNSA facility/site could result in a categorization of objectives, as follows:
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– Facility/site objectives - involve only site and facility organizational units
– Offsite objectives - involve only offsite units
– Shared objectives - involve coordinated site and offsite units
– Special purpose objectives - designed to accomplish a specific purpose and may
involve site and/or offsite units
Using the categories in the example listed above and grouping by organization will assist
in identifying the entity responsible for determining the extent of exercise play (the How
much?), and, therefore, the organizational unit responsible for preparation of its
objectives. Joint objectives will require the collaboration of more than one entity.
Special purpose objectives may be prepared to test, for example, a new capability, such
as a mutual aid agreement, that would dispatch a medic response unit within a specified
time.
Once established, the objectives should clearly define the extent of play (including offsite
organizations in the exercise), identify types of events to be included in the scenario, and
provide the entire framework on which the exercise will be designed.
3.8.2 Basis for Exercise Objectives
Section 67
A recommended methodology for developing exercise objectives uses evaluation criteria
contained in Appendix D of DOE G 151.1-3 as a basis for specific objectives used to
validate and test components of the emergency response. The appendix contains
standardized generic evaluation criteria for judging the performance of functions and
activities associated with each Program Element.
Appendix D contains standard evaluation criteria for each Program Element. Each
criterion is labeled to identify the type(s) of evaluations to which it applies:
P - Program Evaluation
E - Exercise Evaluation
P/E - Program and Exercise Evaluation
CE - Conduct of Exercise Evaluation
The P criteria can be used for evaluating planning and preparedness activities, and the
expected performance of responders during an emergency based on the evaluation of
plans, procedures, facilities and equipment, and through interviews with personnel on the
ERO. The E criteria are used for evaluating the actual, observed performance of
responders during an exercise or actual emergency. P/E criteria are appropriate for either
Program or Exercise evaluations. CE criteria should be used in evaluating the conduct of
an exercise.
To use this set of criteria, the specific issue to be validated or tested, the corrective action,
improvement item, plan activity, or procedure is matched with one or more of the
Appendix D evaluation criteria. This general criterion or criteria becomes the exercise
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objective. Accomplishment and evaluation of this general objective will be reflected in
the references to specific plans, procedures, or standards that are incorporated in
facility/site- or activity-specific evaluation criteria. This approach ensures
standardization of exercise objectives and evaluation criteria, while providing a facility-
/site- or activity-specific evaluation of the objective.
For example:
Emergency Response Organization (ERO). Validate that the ERO responds within
the required timeframe and with the required level of staffing. Applicable evaluation
criteria under the program element ERO is:
P/E6.9 The ERO is functionally staffed and activated in a timely manner; key
emergency response facilities are operational within an hour after
declaration of an OE.
This represents the exercise objective. To produce the criteria for evaluating this
objective, specific time and staffing standards located within the facility/site or activity
plans and procedures must be accessed. For example, if the procedures state that the
ERO is operational within an hour after declaration of an emergency and is functionally
staffed when certain specified ERO members arrive, then these become the evaluation
standards to incorporate in P/E6.9.
3.9 Exercise Preparation
Pre-exercise activities include configuring props or staging equipment, establishing
controller and evaluator communications, specifying safety and security precautions,
making arrangements to feed participants, and making arrangements for minimizing the
impact on non-participants and ongoing operations.
Coordination among participants prior to the exercise should include provisions for
exercise initiation, interruption, and termination. All participants (players, controllers,
and evaluators) should be reminded of their responsibility to prevent unsafe acts and to
stop the exercise, if necessary, to ensure that they do not occur.
3.9.1 Controller and Evaluator Training
Section 68
Generic Training. Generic training should be developed and conducted for individuals
participating as controllers and evaluators in an exercise. This training should include
both initial training and a periodic refresher prior to each exercise.
• Individuals with experience in the control and evaluation of exercises should provide
the initial training. It should include a classroom-type presentation and discussions of
correct controller/evaluator performance in various exercise circumstances.
• Classroom-type presentation should address all aspects of an exercise and include
such topics as objectives, safety, participants, realism, simulation, free play,
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contingency messages, earned information, prompting, and the evaluator and
controller-responder interface. Discussions should provide examples of
circumstances that may occur during an exercise with proper controller actions.
Emphasis should be placed on the criteria for controllers to intercede in responder
actions and the criteria for suspending or terminating the exercise.
Exercise-Specific Training. Just prior to any exercise, all controllers and evaluators
must receive a briefing on the scenario package and the specific duties they are to
perform. This may include a presentation on the various plans and procedures that the
responders are expected to use. Controller briefings should cover the entire scenario and
anticipated responder actions, the location and assignments of each controller (including
actors), communication plans, administrative and logistical details, an in-depth
presentation of safety and security issues, and an in-depth discussion of each controller's
specific assignments. Details for controlling complex or sensitive parts of the exercise
should be presented in the briefing. A tour of locations and associated equipment
involved in the exercise may be performed as part of the briefing; this may NOT occur if
a tour will result in compromise of the exercise.
NOTE. In preparing for an NNX, a tour of locations and associated equipment
involved in the exercise may NOT occur if a tour will result in compromise of the
NNX. In this case, a limited tour may be conducted during an earlier visit, thereby
not compromising the NNX program. In some cases, the NNX team will not arrive
on site or be seen until the implementation of the NNX. It is at the discretion of the
NNX Lead Evaluator to conduct any controller/evaluator in-briefs offsite to avoid the
possibility of compromising the NNX.
3.9.2 Responder and Observer Briefings
Responder Briefing. Should not include information related to the scenario.
Responders shall be briefed regarding rules of conduct; scope of the exercise; safety and
security precautions; approved simulations; methods for identifying various exercise
participants; and any special administrative, logistical, or communications arrangements
in effect during the exercise. Briefing pre-approved simulations must be carefully
considered, since some may be very scenario-specific and may divulge too much advance
information.
NOTE. Because an NNX is an unannounced exercise, there is no pre-exercise
responder briefing. During conduct of the NNX (at the first slow down during
responder actions), the NNX Lead Evaluator will conduct a short brief to all
participants (players, controllers, and evaluators) of the sponsorship and purpose of
this NNX, as well as remind them of their responsibility to prevent unsafe acts and to
stop the NNX, if necessary, to ensure an unsafe act does not occur.
Section 69
Observer Briefing. Should occur prior to the exercise to ensure compliance with safety
and security precautions and other rules of conduct. Observers may attend the controller
briefing or may be provided separate briefings.
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3.9.3 Exercise Setup
Exercise setup should be documented in the logistics plan and includes setting up
simulations, preparation of scenes and visual areas (e.g., smoke generators, simulated
spills, actor moulage, etc.), performing controller communications checks, positioning
controllers/evaluators, conducting responder initial conditions briefings, synchronizing
clocks, initializing computer simulation data, and other scenario-specific activities.
Exercise setup should be carefully planned to ensure that all logistics necessary to
conduct the exercise are checked before the exercise begins. Security of the exercise
scenario must be properly managed; pre-staging of players and/or prior knowledge of
scenario material by players must be effectively prevented.
3.10 Conduct of the Exercise
Control of the exercise ensures that the scenario unfolds according to the exercise plan.
Controllers are responsible for staffing and positioning themselves for effective control.
They must ensure there is no interference or prompting by non-responders. Players/
responders must perform their respective functions, initially and throughout the exercise,
in a professional manner as if the situation were an actual emergency. Simulation of
activities during the exercise must be sufficiently realistic to provide confidence that the
activity could have been performed during a real emergency.
3.10.1 Roles of Participants
Exercise Director. During the exercise, the exercise director is responsible for the
following:
• Safe conduct
• Coordination and continuity
• Providing the opportunity to meet exercise objectives
• Commencing, suspending and terminating the exercise
Controllers. Controllers provide overall direction and control of the exercise. They are
primarily responsible for ensuring continuity of the scenario and maintaining safety and
security precautions. Controllers should do the following:
• Review appropriate emergency response plans, procedures, and checklists prior to the
exercise.
• Review safety, security, communications, and logistical plans included in the exercise
plan.
• Attend required training and briefing sessions.
• Allow freedom of responder decisions and actions (i.e., free play) to demonstrate
exercise objectives and response capabilities.
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• Preclude responder decisions or control actions that would result in loss of
opportunity for a participating organization to meet its objectives.
• Inject approved contingency messages or provide instructions, as needed, to keep the
exercise on track with the scenario.
• Preclude responder decisions and control actions that may compromise safety or
security of the facility, personnel, or equipment.
• Refrain from prompting, in any fashion, decisions or actions of responders.
• Keep the lead controller informed of significant unplanned activities.
• Be prepared to suspend exercise activities in the immediate area and to use pre-
arranged protocols to terminate an exercise.
Section 70
Evaluators. In general, the only function performed by an evaluator during the exercise
is to observe and document the responder actions; however, in some circumstances,
because of limitations on available personnel or financial resources, evaluators may
perform a dual role of evaluator/controller. Formal evaluation is performed after the
exercise is terminated. Evaluators should be assigned specific locations or specific
exercise functions. Evaluators should do the following:
• Review appropriate emergency response plans, procedures, and checklists prior to the
exercise.
• Review appropriate plans (e.g., safety, security, communications, and logistical plans)
developed for conduct of the exercise.
• Attend required training and briefing sessions.
• Observe performance of responders during the exercise and document their actions
using their evaluator modules or checklists.
• Refrain from interfacing with responders to prevent interrupting or prompting.
• Evaluate responder performance (not the person) and adequacy of procedures,
facilities, and equipment based on exercise-specific evaluation criteria and evaluator
checklists.
• Document errors and problem areas in the scenario or conduct of the exercise.
• Maintain a time line of the events as they enfold.
• Present their evaluations and recommendations in a formal critique.
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Observers. Observers should not interfere with or become involved in any exercise
activity, nor should they contribute information or opinions to responders in any fashion.
Responders. Responders represent the majority of participants in an exercise. In
addition to site DOE/NNSA and contractor emergency response personnel, responders
may include personnel from DOE/NNSA Headquarters, DOE/NNSA Operations/Field
Elements and service centers, and various other DOE/NNSA elements; Federal agencies;
state, tribal, local, and private organizations; and the media.
Non-Participants. Non-participants are individuals outside the scope of play who will
continue to perform their normal, routine duties as though the exercise is not in progress.
Such routine duties include activities necessary for continued safe and secure operation of
the facility. Efforts should be made to minimize the impact of the exercise on non-
participants and to avoid interface between responders and those individuals.
3.10.2 Conduct
This section discusses various aspects of exercise conduct that ensure that the exercise
represents a valid test of performance of the response capabilities in achieving the
exercise objectives.
Confidentiality. Scenario information should be closely guarded and not discussed with
potential responders. Guidelines for maintaining exercise confidentiality include the
following:
• Controllers/evaluators should be careful of what they say and to whom they speak
about the exercise because they may be overheard; this includes conversations over
radio net communications.
• Controllers/evaluators should be careful when positioning themselves to observe an
activity to ensure they do not give away information by their actions.
• Controllers/evaluators should take care that no one can see their scenario notebooks
or comments. They should never lay their scenarios, notes, or messages in a location
where responders can read them.
Simulation and Realism. Realism should be emphasized throughout any exercise.
Section 71
• Exercises should be managed to be as realistic as possible. Exercises should attempt
to duplicate the sense of stress inherent in a real emergency situation while, at the
same time, ensuring safety of personnel and security of the facility.
• Exercise responders should receive scenario information only when it is earned via
demonstration of the particular role and its response to the event.
• Simulation should be kept to a minimum. During responder briefings, responders
should be briefed on which functions/activities are simulated.
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• A control cell should be used whenever it is necessary for responders to interact with
entities not participating in the exercise. The control cell is located away from
responders and is staffed by experienced professionals who simulate or role-play
nonparticipating organizations. This method of simulation enables realistic
interactions to occur between the exercise responders and those they would expect to
interact with during the course of an actual response.
• Actors/role-players (controllers) should be used to simulate personnel who would
actually be encountered by responders if the scenario were real. Actors may come in
face-to-face contact with the responders or may be members of a control cell.
• Responders should implement their appropriate plans, procedures, and training to
respond as if the scenario information is real. Responders should rely upon the
controllers or exercise simulation tools to supply scenario information.
Presentation of Scenario Information. Data and evidence should be presented to the
responders as it would be found, measured, or indicated, with a maximum degree of
realism.
• Information should be provided to responders only when it is earned through their
observations, correct use of procedures, and correct reading and use of
instrumentation. For authenticity, data sheets, recorder charts, and instrument output
information should be provided wherever possible in the scenario.
• Time-related parameters should be provided to responders at the time identified on
messages to ensure progress of the scenario timeline.
• If responders require clarification (i.e., a reasonable request) about a particular
message or visual cue, the controller should provide such data/information as
accurately as possible considering simulated time and scenario conditions, then
advise the Lead Controller/Evaluator of their inject.
• If controllers need to create additional information (e.g., the message was incomplete)
or do not know the information required, they should use pre-arranged protocols
(e.g., obtain area controller or lead controller permission) to formulate a response.
Free Play. Free play allows responders to make decisions and take actions they consider
appropriate to the response. Realism is enhanced and responder motivation is improved
when responders are provided the latitude to make decisions and take actions that may
differ from those anticipated during the scenario development.
• The key management aspect of free play is to allow such actions to occur, but to
preclude actions by responders that would do the following:
– Jeopardize personnel safety
– Jeopardize facility/site safety
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– Compromise security
– Interfere with the scenario
– Exceed established exercise scope or limitations
– Preclude exercise objectives from being demonstrated
Section 72
• During exercises, responders may interject innovative, unexpected response solutions
or actions that can be accommodated by the scenario. In such situations, the
controllers should allow the responders to proceed with their actions and notify the
exercise lead controller that a deviation is occurring. If the responder actions
compromise safety or security, or limit demonstration of stated exercise objectives,
the controller should note the intended action but preclude that intended action from
actually occurring. This information should be reported to the evaluator.
• Actual equipment and procedural problems that are identified during the exercise
interject a form of free play. Solutions to actual equipment or procedural problems
on a real-time basis afford a valuable evaluation of the conduct of operation, training,
and safety culture of the responders. Controllers should allow responders to solve
such actual problems unless safety, security, or demonstration of exercise objectives
may be compromised.
Prompting. Explicit instructions should be given to all participants to avoid prompting
during an exercise. Prompting occurs when responders are provided advance scenario-
related information or guidance regarding appropriate response actions. Prompting may
result from either unintentional or intentional action by controllers, evaluators, or
observers.
Communications. All written and verbal communications among participants should be
clearly identified as exercise information and all message transmissions should begin and
end with the statement:
“THIS IS AN EXERCISE.”
Because offsite parties can monitor radio and cellular telephone transmissions, personal
information such as the names or phone numbers of individuals should never be
transmitted. All communications should be in compliance with security practices.
3.11 Exercise Evaluation
Evaluation and critique of the exercise provide feedback to resolve deficiencies and
incorporate improvements in the emergency management program. A well-planned,
structured evaluation is essential for performing a valid test of the emergency response
capabilities of the program. In this section, the planning and organization of an
evaluation of an operations-based exercise will be described. This will be followed by a
discussion of the evaluation process.
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3.11.1 Planning and Organization of the Evaluation
The following steps should be implemented to effectively plan for an operations-based
exercise evaluation:
• Define evaluation requirements. Determine what will be evaluated and where the
observations will occur.
• Prepare the EVALPLAN. Prepare the complete package of information on the
evaluation process.
• Develop evaluation tools. Develop the forms evaluators will use to capture
information for evaluation during the exercise observation.
• Recruit, assign, and train evaluators. Determine the necessary qualifications of
evaluators, identify appropriate individuals, obtain commitments from those
individuals, and train them.
• Finalize the evaluation plan. Undertake the activities necessary to organize the
evaluation just before the exercise.
Define Evaluation Requirements. While the exercise is being designed, the evaluation
planning team will be provided, via the EXPLAN, the MSEL, and other exercise
documents, with information on:
• Exercise goals and objectives
• Exercise flow
• Critical actions
• Exercise participants
Section 73
• Functions and activities to be evaluated
The evaluation planning team will use this information to plan the evaluation, as follows:
Step 1: The evaluation planning team will first use the exercise goals and objectives
to determine what performance outcomes should be evaluated.
Step 2: Once the outcomes to be evaluated are determined, the team identifies what
activities should be evaluated.
Step 3: Based on these activities, the team identifies which functions
(e.g., individuals, teams, disciplines, and organizations) should be evaluated.
Step 4: From the functions, the evaluation planning team can identify where the
observations should take place (i.e., what locations) and which specific tasks should
be evaluated.
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Step 5: From the tasks to be evaluated, the planning team should develop the
guidelines within the objectives and criteria for meeting an objective when criteria are
only partially met.
Step 6: Once these steps have been completed, the evaluation planning team can
identify or develop the appropriate evaluation tools for the evaluators to use.
Prepare the EVALPLAN. The planning for an evaluation is incorporated in an
EVALPLAN, which consists of the following:
• Exercise-specific information: The EVALPLAN should include the scenario, the map
of the play site (including evaluation locations), and the exercise schedule (including
the evaluation schedule).
• Evaluator team organization, assignments, and location: The EVALPLAN should
identify how many evaluators are needed, where they will be located, and how they
are organized. Evaluators cannot see everything that occurs at any one location
during a response. Yet, during the exercise, evaluators must be able to capture
information that provides insight into how effective each group is as well as how well
they operate with each other. Thus, location and number of evaluators are crucial to
the data collection process.
• Evaluator instructions: Evaluators should be given instructions on what to do before
they arrive (e.g., review exercise materials, jurisdictional plans and procedures, and
the EVALPLAN) as well as how to proceed upon arrival.
• Evaluation tools: The EVALPLAN should include the data collection instruments and
guides as discussed below.
Develop Evaluation Tools. Once the evaluation planning team has determined what will
be evaluated and where the observations will occur, specific evaluation tools are
developed for use in the data collection and analysis. The Exercise Evaluation Guides
(EEGs) are developed to assist in exercise evaluation. The facility/site- or activity-
specific plans and procedures are used to describe the expected response to be evaluated
for each exercise objective. EEGs provide evaluators with information on what they
should expect to see at the specific location or in the specific situation. The EEG should
provide the evaluator with the important parameters and actions to look for in observing
the activities. Guidance is provided for determining whether the objective is met. Space
in the EEG should be provided to record observations; a checklist format might be useful
to link observations with the parameters and actions required in plans/procedures.
Questions to address after the exercise can also be recorded in the EEG.
Recruit, Assign, and Train Evaluators. Selection, recruitment, and assignment of
evaluators are crucial components of exercise design. The individual primarily
responsible for these tasks is the Lead Evaluator. Other members of the evaluation
planning team may assist the Lead Evaluator in this task.
Section 74
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The EXPLAN, which is developed by the exercise planning team, serves as the basis for
determining the number and expertise of evaluators needed for the exercise. This
document will define the scope and concept of play for the exercise. It describes the
response tasks that will be demonstrated by exercise players and indicates whether
simulations will be used for nonparticipating organizations. It also identifies exercise
locations such as emergency operations centers, medical facilities, decontamination sites,
and field locations.
The Lead Evaluator plays a critical role in operations-based exercises and should be
identified early in the process to fully participate as a member of the exercise planning
team. The Lead Evaluator should be a senior-level person who understands command
and decision-making processes and interagency coordination, as well as specific response
functions. Exercises with play in multiple sites will need an Evaluation Team Leader for
each site.
A number of evaluators will also be needed to observe and record player performance
during the exercise. Evaluators should be chosen for their knowledge and understanding
of the specific functional area they will be assigned to observe. Evaluators should be
assigned to monitor all participating organizations and player locations. The following
guidelines will help participants determine the number of evaluators that are needed:
• Field response. A minimum of one evaluator for each function evaluated
(e.g., incident command, decontamination, and emergency medical services);
additional evaluators are needed for functions that involve multiple activities that take
place simultaneously or activities that take place in multiple locations.
• Hospitals/Medical Facilities. A minimum of three to five evaluators at each
participating medical facility, depending on size and expected patient/victim flow;
additional evaluators are needed for functions that involve multiple activities taking
place simultaneously or activities taking place in multiple locations.
• EOC. A minimum of three to five evaluators at each participating facility, depending
on the size and organizational structure of the EOC.
• Joint Information Center (JIC). Depending on the expected number of participants at
the JIC, one or two evaluators may be sufficient.
Additional evaluators would be needed for a large exercise with many players performing
a function in a single location or for each location when the function is performed at
multiple sites.
Generally, exercise evaluators will be peer reviewers identified by reaching out to other
facilities on a site, to other DOE/NNSA sites, or to DOE/NNSA Headquarters offices.
Independent evaluators who can assist in monitoring compliance may also supplement
this peer review approach. Potential evaluators may be identified from multiple sources,
including following:
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• Members of the Exercise Design Team, who are fully versed in the scenario, players,
and expected action, are a good source for evaluators (if they are not already
committed to other duties during the exercises).
• Experienced members of participating organizations and the ERO who are not
involved in the play are a good choice for evaluators because they are familiar with
the organizations, plans, and procedures.
Section 75
• Professionals in similar agencies in adjacent or nearby jurisdictions can be a source
for evaluators, especially when all of the participating jurisdiction’s members of a
specialized function, such as a Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) team, are involved
in the exercise.
• DOE/NNSA and contractor employees from other DOE/NNSA facilities and/or sites
might be available with sufficient notice.
Although service as an evaluator requires a considerable commitment of time, evaluators
and their agencies can expect to gain significant benefit from the peer evaluation process.
For example, observing other locations exercising their emergency response plans may
help evaluators gain insight into best practices or other ways to provide emergency
response, which could benefit their own communities.
Evaluators are expected to be available for the pre-exercise training and briefing/site
visit, the exercise itself, the post-exercise hot wash, and the data analysis and contribution
to the AAR. This time commitment is usually equivalent to one day before the exercise,
the exercise day(s), and one day after the exercise. One or more of the evaluators may
devote additional time to drafting the AAR and briefing participant organizations and
their management on findings and recommendations.
3.11.2 Evaluation Process
Information is gathered and documented by the evaluators. Evaluators assess the
performance of the ERO and adequacy of equipment, facilities, and resource documents
used by the responders. The assessment consists of a comparison of performance against
predetermined and documented facility/site- or activity-specific evaluation criteria based
on program-specific plans/procedures. Information from the evaluation and critique
processes provides feedback for use in identifying corrective actions and improvements
to the emergency management program.
The evaluator organization must be sufficiently staffed to evaluate the performance and
key decision-making of the responders in satisfying the exercise objectives. Evaluators
should be familiar with responder organizations, functions, procedures, and anticipated
responder decisions and response activities in order to accurately monitor activities and
functions performed by the players.
Responders/players are evaluated with respect to their demonstrated proficiency in their
respective responsibilities and functions, communication and coordination with other
DOE G 151.1-3 3-45
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responders, familiarity and use of applicable procedures and equipment, and overall
professional response. Facilities and equipment are evaluated with respect to adequacy
of functions/operability. Procedures are evaluated with respect to their use by
responders, specifically, their adequacy of content for the tasks performed. Notifications
and communications are evaluated during every exercise. When offsite agencies
participate, interfaces with offsite agencies are evaluated.
The following overview describes the steps in the exercise evaluation process for
operations-based exercises, not including auxiliary activities such as development of the
evaluation tools or training for evaluators.
Step 1: Plan and organize the evaluation. As part of the exercise planning and
development process, the exercise planning team will determine what information should
be collected, who will collect it, and how it will be collected.
Section 76
Step 2: Observe the exercise and collect data. Expert (peer) evaluators collect data by
recording their observations during exercise play and collecting additional data from
records and logs. Evaluators of tabletop exercises record discussion and review
documents such as plans, procedures, and interagency agreements.
Step 3: Analyze data. The analysis phase should answer the following questions about
the exercise play:
What happened?
What was supposed to happen?
If there is a difference, why is there a difference?
What is the effect of that difference?
What should be learned from this?
What improvement should be made or exemplary practices adopted?
The first step in the analysis process is a player hot wash, i.e., a short discussion session
immediately following the exercise to get player feedback.
Analysis of exercises is conducted using data collected to reconstruct the timeline of
events as they occurred, an approach similar to reconstruction of events that most
agencies do following an accident or other type of incident. This information is then used
to identify and explore the differences between what happened and what was supposed to
happen to ascertain the root causes for the differences.
Step 4: Develop the DRAFT AAR. As part of the analysis phase, the evaluation team
drafts the AAR, which provides a description of what happened, exemplary practices,
issues that need to be addressed, and recommendations for improvements.
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The evaluators share the assessment information with management and, if appropriate,
facilitate identification of improvements that can be made. This phase of the Exercise
Evaluation and Improvement Process generally consists of the following steps.
Step 5: Conduct Exercise Debrief meeting. The exercise planners and/or evaluation
team will present their analysis findings and recommendations in an Exercise Debrief
meeting with management from the sites, facilities, departments, agencies and
jurisdictions that participated in the exercise. They will also solicit feedback and
validation from the attendees on their observations and recommendations.
Step 6: Identify improvements to be implemented. Much of the Exercise Debrief
meeting will be devoted to discussing specific actions that the exercise participants will
take to address the opportunities for improvement contained in the recommendations in
the draft AAR. This list of actions, referred to as the Improvement Plan (IP), identifies
what will be done, who (person, department or agency) is responsible, and the timeframe
for implementation. Although the IP is a written document, it should be viewed not as a
static document but as a dynamic program that is updated and modified regularly in a
constant cycle of improvement.
Step 7: Finalize the AAR. Following the Exercise Debrief meeting, the evaluation team
should finalize the AAR by incorporating any corrections or clarifications related to the
observations or recommendations as well as the improvement steps that will be taken.
Some of the actions may include only the preliminary step of a multi-step activity
(e.g., create a committee to review the issue and make recommendations for further
action).
3.11.3 Critiques
Formal critiques are conducted after the exercise to provide a forum in which the exercise
results can be addressed and discussed among the participants. This can result in the
identification of “lessons learned” for improving the response to an emergency. For
large-scope exercises, it may be necessary to conduct several critiques to ensure that all
participants are given the opportunity to take part.
Section 77
Responder “hotwash” critiques are conducted immediately following the exercise to
provide an opportunity for players/responders to discuss their own perspectives on the
activities and events. These critiques are typically conducted “in place” (e.g., incident
command post, field teams, EOC) by the area lead responder or controller.
A formal verbal critique is conducted following each exercise and should include
participation by all controllers and evaluators. This critique should provide the forum for
discussion and correlation of individual observations, formulation of exercise findings,
determination of objectives demonstrated, and determination of overall exercise
performance. Recommendations for corrective and improvement actions should be
addressed. The product of this critique provides the framework for the senior
management critique (plus any exit meeting) and the exercise AAR.
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Key participants, including manager-level responders, the Exercise Director, the lead
controller(s), and the lead evaluator(s), should attend a senior management-level critique.
Overall exercise performance, significant observations, findings, and preliminary
corrective actions and improvement items may be addressed. For exercises evaluated by
an external organization, an “exit/closeout” meeting may be conducted for DOE/NNSA
and facility/site management.
Critiques should accomplish the following:
• Be conducted in a questioning, objective manner to maximize the benefit and learning
experience from each exercise.
• Include a review of scenario events, identification of shortcomings in the scenario or
exercise conduct, and analysis of expected and actual responder actions.
• Discuss responder performance, the adequacy of procedures and other
documentation, and the adequacy of facilities and equipment.
• Provide the basis for documentation of findings to facilitate identification of
corrective actions and improvement items for upgrading the emergency management
program.
3.12 Follow-up Activities
3.12.1 Corrective Actions and Improvement Items
Findings resulting from the exercise should be subject to an in-depth review. For
recurring problems, a root cause analysis should be performed. A plan should be
developed to implement corrective actions and improvement items. Management should
budget, schedule, and implement the actions to upgrade the emergency management
program. Activities should be coordinated with affected organizations. Corrective
actions, such as procedural modifications, necessitate timely feedback to the participants.
Such timely feedback demonstrates management attention and concern for upgrading the
emergency response capability and demonstrates management support for involvement of
participants in exercises.
3.12.2 Maintaining Records
Auditable records should be prepared and maintained for each exercise. Long-range
planning information such as exercise objectives, schedules, and the exercise AAR are
considered auditable records. Records that may be maintained include the following:
• Training records
• Participant rosters
• Exercise participant packages
• Critique minutes or summaries
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• Completed evaluator modules or checklists
• Final report
• Accounting summary
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APPENDIX B. Controller and Evaluator Manual
B.1 Introduction
Section 78
The purpose of the Controller and Evaluator Manual is to prepare DOE/NNSA
controllers and evaluators to effectively perform assigned duties and functions during
emergency management exercises. It provides pertinent information concerning the
exercise development, control, and evaluation processes, and details specific controller
and evaluator responsibilities before, during, and after an exercise. This Manual:
• Augments DOE G 151.1-3, Chapter 3
• Details the roles of controllers and evaluators in exercises
• Explains the materials used by controllers and evaluators
• Provides techniques on how to effectively perform the controller and evaluator
functions
Section B.2 provides an overview of the exercise organization and participant selection
and responsibilities. Section B.3 details controller activities, while Section B.4 is
dedicated to evaluator activities. Controllers and evaluators may only need to review the
section that applies to their assigned functions during the exercise. However, individuals
assigned to both controller and evaluator roles should read the section in its entirety.
Section B.5 provides information relative to the exercise critique and evaluation process
that is applicable to both controllers and evaluators. The After Action Report (AAR) is
addressed in Section B.6.
B.2 Exercise Organization and Participants
The exercise organization consists of the following participants: the Exercise Director,
responders, controllers, evaluators, and observers. Each participant performs specific
assignments and roles as summarized below:
• Exercise Director. The senior exercise official who has primary authority and
overall responsibility for the design, development, control, and evaluation of the
exercise.
• Controllers. Provide direction and control of the exercise. They monitor the
sequence of events as they unfold, and are responsible for exercise safety within their
span of control. Individual controllers may initiate certain actions in order to ensure
the continuity of events described in the exercise scenario. It is their responsibility to
ensure that responders do not respond in a manner that might jeopardize safety and
that responders remain focused on exercise play that demonstrates the exercise
objectives. The control organization will vary in number depending on the exercise
scope and may include the following controller positions.
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• Senior controller. Responsible for coordination and oversight of all other
controllers.
• Lead controllers. May be used to coordinate the activities of several controllers for
larger or more complicated exercises that involve a number of response locations and
emergency functions. Controller teams may be organized by location, function, or a
combination of both depending on the needs of the exercise. However, controller
team leaders should have previous experience as an exercise controller before they
are selected to lead a team.
• Control cell. A simulation center located away from the responders. Staffed by
experienced controllers (and/or actors) who simulate or role-play non-participating
organizations by providing input to responders, via telephone, on behalf of any non-
participating individuals, companies, offsite agencies, or Emergency Response
Organization (ERO) members who would normally be involved in responding to an
emergency. Role-players in a control cell are subject to evaluation of their
performance just like any other exercise controller.
Section 79
• Timeline coordinator. For complex exercises, is responsible for ensuring the
exercise timeline remains on schedule—a key factor for proper attainment of exercise
objectives. Should exercise play cause deviation from or a delay in the timeline, it
becomes necessary to use previously prepared contingency materials. The timeline
coordinator, typically co-located with the Exercise Director, is responsible for
specific tasks or actions from the control cell. The timeline coordinator receives
timeline status reports from lead controllers and provides this information to the
senior controller and Exercise Director.
• Actors/role-players. Controllers who simulate members of non-participating
organizations and role-play key individuals, such as injured personnel. They may
have face-to-face contact with responders, functioning as media reporters, next-of-
kin, or injured personnel. They may be members of a control cell with telephone
communication being the only interaction with responders.
• Evaluators. Document and evaluate responder performance and adequacy of
facilities and equipment against established emergency plan/procedures and exercise
evaluation criteria. Evaluators are unbiased, objective, technical or functional
experts. The evaluator organization will vary in number depending on the exercise
scope and may include the following evaluator positions.
• Senior evaluator. Responsible for the coordination of all evaluation functions
including preparation of the AAR that identifies findings and recommends corrective
actions.
• Lead evaluators. May be used to coordinate activities of several evaluators for
larger or more complicated exercises that involve a number of response locations and
emergency functions. Evaluator teams may be organized by location, function, or a
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combination of both, depending on the needs of the exercise. Evaluation team leaders
are responsible for the coordination of a team of evaluators assigned to particular
locations and/or similar response functions. As with the control organizations,
evaluation team leaders should be selected on the basis of previous experience and
demonstrated ability to successfully perform as an evaluator.
• Responders. Often referred to as “players,” usually comprise the majority of
participants in the exercise. It is their responsibility to take the necessary actions to
mitigate the simulated emergency and thus demonstrate the ability to ensure the
safety of workers, the public, and the environment, in accordance with established
emergency plans and procedures.
• Observers. May be present to observe the exercise for either official or educational
purposes. Attendance of observers at an exercise, their locations, and rules of
conduct should be determined by the Exercise Director. Observers should not
interact with responders, contribute information or opinions, or interfere with the
exercise in any other way. Observers should direct all questions or comments related
to the exercise to the area controller or their escort, if appropriate. Although they
may have prior knowledge of the scenario, observers should be reminded of the
responsibility for withholding that information from the responders.
• Video teams and still photographers. Considered observers for exercise purposes,
may be used to document the exercise. These teams may film, record, and
photograph response activities, as long as they do not interfere with exercise play.
Section 80
B.2.1 Selection of Controllers and Evaluators
Controller and evaluator functions generally should not be combined. Each role has
specific responsibilities that require total concentration to be performed effectively. If
circumstances require that an individual be assigned to both roles, that individual must
have a thorough understanding of controller/evaluator requirements and responsibilities.
Individuals who fill controller positions should have extensive emergency management
experience and have participated in a variety of tabletops, drills, and exercises, so they
know what behaviors and actions to expect from responders. Controllers should
participate in several exercises to provide continuity and consistency. Personnel who
serve as controllers should be knowledgeable concerning the updates and upgrades to the
emergency plans and implementation procedures that will be demonstrated at their
locations during the exercise.
Evaluators are selected based on their knowledge of the functions they are to evaluate and
their experience with them. It is important that they are technically competent to judge
the actions of the responders. Wherever possible, their experience should be equal to or
greater than that of the responders in their assigned area.
The conduct of effective emergency exercises depends on the selection and assignment of
top-quality controllers and evaluators. Although these individuals may be drawn from
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non-participating areas of a response organization, care should be taken to ensure that use
of these personnel to support the exercise does not compromise the effectiveness of the
response organization.
B.2.2 Responsibilities of Controllers and Evaluators
Controllers.
Controllers are primarily responsible for ensuring the continuity of the scenario
and maintaining safety and security.
Controllers play a crucial role throughout the exercise process. Their first and most
important function is to maintain exercise safety. They maintain the sequence of events
and control the flow of message injects. Controllers are responsible for the overall
conduct of the exercise. They are in a unique position to view exercise play, understand
the dynamics of an action or activity as it unfolds, and comment on what they observe.
Controllers do interact with the responders. Controllers provide scenario information to
responders as it is earned and may be tasked to inject approved contingency messages to
keep the exercise on track with the scenario and exercise timeline. Controllers should do
the following:
• Prior to the exercise, review appropriate Emergency Plans, procedures, and
documents.
• Prior to the exercise, review appropriate Exercise Plan (EXPLAN) materials,
including objectives, scenario, messages, Safety and Security Plans, and controller
instructions.
• Attend required training and briefing sessions.
• Conduct the exercise by providing applicable scenario information to responders.
• Allow freedom of responder decisions and actions (i.e., free play) to demonstrate
exercise objectives and response capabilities.
• Inject approved contingency messages or provide instructions, as needed, to keep the
exercise on track with the scenario.
• Preclude responder decisions and control actions that may compromise the safety or
security of personnel or the facility.
• Refrain from prompting, in any fashion, the decisions or actions of responders.
• Prevent observers and evaluators from interacting with responders.
Section 81
• Be prepared to suspend exercise activities in the immediate area and to use pre-
arranged protocols to terminate an exercise.
DOE G 151.1-3 B-5
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Evaluators.
An evaluator's function during the exercise is to observe and document exercise
activities and conditions. The evaluation assessment is performed after the exercise
is terminated.
Evaluators document and evaluate the performance of the responders and the adequacy of
facilities, equipment, and resource documents (e.g., drawings, reference materials, maps)
used by the responders. Evaluators are assigned specific locations or responder functions
to evaluate. Responder performance must be evaluated against plans and procedures
using criteria established prior to the exercise. Evaluators document the responders'
performance and attend the critique facilitated by the controllers immediately following
the exercise during which the responders discuss their performance. The evaluation,
documentation, and critique discussion(s) provide important data, which substantiate the
exercise findings.
The AAR summarizes the overall results of the exercise and provides a comprehensive
assessment of the emergency response performance. Evaluators should do the following:
• Review appropriate emergency response plans, procedures, and documents prior to
the exercise.
• Prior to the exercise, review appropriate EXPLAN materials including the objectives,
scenario, messages, Safety, Media, and Security Plans, and evaluator instructions.
• Attend required training and briefing sessions.
• Observe the performance of the responders during the exercise and document their
actions using evaluation modules or checklists.
• Observe the performance of the control organization in controlling and directing the
exercise.
• Refrain from interfacing with responders to preclude interrupting or prompting their
decisions or actions.
• Evaluate responder performance and the adequacy of procedures, facilities, and
equipment based on specific evaluation criteria.
• Document errors and problem areas in the scenario or conduct of the exercise.
• Present their evaluations and recommendations in a formal critique.
Exercise information should be closely guarded and not discussed with potential
responders. Scenario materials should be secured at all times, when not in use. All
copies of the EXPLAN should be numbered and assigned while under review to ensure
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accountability during the review/development period. To ensure that exercise
confidentiality is maintained, controllers and evaluators should do the following:
• Be careful of what they say and to whom because it may be overheard.
• Take care in positioning themselves while observing an exercise activity to ensure
they do not give away specific information by their actions.
• Ensure responders cannot read their scenario, timeline, notes, inject messages or other
sensitive materials before or during an exercise.
Exercises are subject to evaluation by “external” DOE/NNSA organizations (i.e., an
organizational entity beyond that of the immediate facility/site conducting the exercise),
including any organization [e.g., Defense Nuclear Facility Safety Board (DNFSB)] with
oversight responsibility. An external exercise evaluation may also include an evaluation
of the manner in which the exercise is conducted, controlled, and evaluated. This
evaluation would likely include an evaluation of the performance of the controller and
evaluator organizations.
Section 82
B.2.3 Controller and Evaluator Training and Briefings
A formal training program for controllers and evaluators enhances the capability of the
emergency management program to maintain a level of consistency in how exercises are
managed and response capabilities are evaluated. The training program should include
initial and refresher training and a pre-exercise specific briefing to provide controllers
and evaluators with the information and direction necessary to perform their duties with
confidence. Both generic training and exercise-specific briefings are discussed in
Chapter 3, DOE G 151.1-3.
B.3 Controller Activities
Controller responsibilities include pre-exercise setup, exercise conduct, and post-exercise
activities. Selected controller responsibilities during the exercise process are given
below:
Pre-Exercise Activities Initial Training
Refresher Training
Security Access
Simulation Setup
Communications Check
Activities During the Exercise Exercise specific Briefing
Responder Briefings
Earned Information
Contingency Messages
Unplanned Suspensions Restart
Exercise Termination
DOE G 151.1-3 B-7
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Post-Exercise Activities Participant Rosters
Self critique Sheets
Responders’ Critiques
Evaluators’ Critiques
AAR
The following section reviews methods of controlling an exercise, as well as specific
responsibilities of controllers before, during, and after an exercise.
B.3.1 Pre-Exercise Activities
Controllers must review the exercise and scenario materials, attend exercise-specific
training, perform communication checks, set up simulations, and conduct pre-exercise
safety and security checks before an exercise.
Controller Package.
A cover page should remind the controllers of the confidentiality of the scenario
materials.
The Controller and Evaluator (C/E) Handbook supplements the EXPLAN by presenting
more detailed information about the exercise scenario and describing exercise controller’s
and evaluator’s roles and responsibilities. Larger, more complex exercises may use the
Control Staff Instructions (COSIN) and an Evaluation Plan (EVALPLAN) in place of, or
to supplement, the C/E handbook.
Controllers should be issued their materials for review prior to the exercise-specific
briefing. The controllers, being experienced personnel, may be tasked to help the
scenario developers finalize scenario details. The controller package may consist of part
or all of the contents of the EXPLAN. Because some EXPLANs are very large
documents, controllers may need to reorganize the material so that the information
critical to their specific assignment is readily accessible. Controllers should bring their
packages to the exercise-specific briefing sessions and be prepared to discuss any
concerns or questions they have about this information. The controller package should
include, as a minimum, the following information:
• Schedule of control activities
• Control organization and assignments
• Procedures for reporting within the control organization
• Suspension and termination procedures
• Scenario material
– Objectives
– Scenario narrative
– Timeline and Master Scenario Event List (MSEL)
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– Position-specific messages or injects, including associated data
• Position-specific safety and security instructions
Section 83
Exercise-Specific Briefing. The overall objective of the pre-exercise briefing is to
prepare the controllers to safely and effectively control the exercise without
compromising the scenario or prompting responder actions. Controllers who do not
attend the briefing should not serve as controllers during the exercise.
Day-of-the-Exercise Preparations. On the day of the exercise, controllers report to the
staging area with their notes, scenario messages, data sheets, controller log forms for
recording activities, and any other materials assigned. Controllers should have reviewed
their instructions (example in Figure B-1), and highlighted specific responsibilities and
messages that they are responsible for delivering.
Simulation Setup. The controllers may be required to assist in setting up the simulations
that will be used in their control areas. This may include the preparation of smoke
generators, positioning of special equipment or vehicles, simulated spills, and injured role
players. It may also include the pre-staging of simulations for use later in the exercise or
for contingency purposes. All simulations should be checked before reporting “ready.”
It should be remembered that realism is second only to safety.
DOE G 151.1-3 B-9
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GENERIC CONTROLLER INSTRUCTIONS (SAMPLE)
1. Review the exercise objectives and controller package for your area of responsibility.
2. Using the Master Scenario Events List (MSEL), highlight the specific messages for which
you are responsible.
3. Be located in the appropriate emergency response facility at least 30 minutes prior to the
start of the exercise. If you are not assigned to a specific facility, be in place to meet the
responders at least 15 minutes prior to their activation.
4. Obtain or locate necessary communications equipment and test it to ensure satisfactory
communication between controllers and the senior controller and/or the timeline
coordinator.
5. Wear controller identification, such as the required badge, armband, or vest.
6. Synchronize your watch with the lead controller to ensure that the exercise timeline and the
controller logs are consistent. Verify weather conditions if actual meteorology is to be used
during the exercise.
7. As instructed, distribute an exercise participant package to specific responders. This may
include exercise limitations, meteorology, instructions, and the exercise telephone directory.
8. Do not enter into personal conversations with any exercise responder.
9. Deliver the messages you have been assigned at the time indicated. Caution: If the
information depends on some action to be taken by the responder, do not deliver the
message until the responder has earned the information by successfully accomplishing the
required action.
10. When you deliver a message, provide the senior controller with the message number and
delivery time.
11. Begin and end all exercise communication over the radio or telephone with the phrase
“THIS IS AN EXERCISE.” This precaution is taken so that anyone overhearing the
conversation will not inadvertently mistake the exercise play for an actual emergency event.
12. If you are to deliver specific data, deliver it as directed on the message instructions. .
(Examples: Do not deliver vital signs of an accident victim until the first responder attempts
the appropriate actions for obtaining these; do not volunteer radiation readings until the
technician has turned on and read the detection instrument.)
Section 84
13. Record all activities and the time in your controller log. Do not write opinions; rather, write
about specific actions.
Page 1 of 2
Figure B-1. Sample Generic Controller Instructions
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GENERIC CONTROLLER INSTRUCTIONS (SAMPLE) (cont’d)
14. If responders do not perform as expected and a contingency message is not provided,
notify your lead controller immediately and ask for direction. No unplanned simulations
should be allowed without the seniorcontroller's approval. This differs from free play,
which is action taken by a responder that is appropriate in solving the problem in a
unique way.
15. Do not prompt a responder as to what a specific response should be unless a contingency
message directs you to do so. Clarify information as long as it does not provide
coaching.
16. Ensure that all observers stay out of the exercise activity. If you need assistance, notify
your lead controller or security.
17. Do not provide information to the responders regarding scenario event progress or
resolution of problems encountered by others. Responders are expected to obtain
information through their own resources.
18 The senior controller will notify controllers when the exercise has been terminated. The
exercise will be terminated when the Exercise Director, in conjunction with the senior
controller, determines that all exercise objectives have been met, or enough time has
elapsed for the objectives to be demonstrated.
19. Pick up copies of responder logs and pertinent documentation prior to the post-exercise
debriefing and critique. This information should be given to the senior controller.
Coordinate this task with the evaluator in your area.
20. At exercise termination, summarize your notes and prepare for the local area critique.
Have the summary ready to turn over to your lead controller. The facility lead controller
shall provide this documentation to the senior controller.
Page 2 of 2
Figure B-1. Sample Generic Controller Instructions (cont’d)
Pre-Start Safety Checks. Prior to the beginning of the exercise, pre-start safety checks
are conducted. These include the checking of simulations, posting “EXERCISE IN
PROGRESS” signs, weapons safety checks, and a final communication check with the
lead controller.
The Exercise Director will not start the exercise until notified that all controllers have
performed their communications check, verifying they are at their assigned location and
their safety checks have been completed. The senior controller will give the control
organization a time check (synchronizing watches). Large exercises may be started at a
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predetermined time while smaller exercises may be started by voice command over the
communications network.
B.3.2 Activities during the Exercise
The exercise control organization plays the crucial role in monitoring the sequence of
events, injecting messages, and ensuring the overall safe conduct of the exercise.
Monitoring For Safety.
A controller's primary function is to ensure the safe execution of an exercise. The
safety of everyone involved in the exercise, as well as the facility, public, and the
environment, is the highest priority.
Section 85
Controllers are responsible for knowing the limitations and precautions for exercise
safety and security and for understanding and using this information to ensure that all
participants comply accordingly. Precautions and limitations are provided to the
controllers in the exercise Safety Plan and Security Plan and also in exercise-specific
training. Such information may include details on physical security (such as facility
access control), safety (such as the location of fire doors), information security (such as
the location of classifiers to ensure classified information is not divulged), and other
privileged instructions.
All participants in an exercise are responsible for acting in accordance with the exercise
safety plan and are bound by DOE/NNSA requirements, as well as local laws and
restrictions. It is the responsibility of the controller to stop any action that would violate
any law or safety protocol. General safety rules applicable to all participants may include
the following:
• Comply with all Federal, state, and local legal restrictions.
• Obey all traffic laws when responding to the exercise.
• Wear all personal protective equipment required for the job.
• Do not place yourself or anyone else in an unsafe position.
• Obey the directions of the controller at the scene.
• Preface and end all radio, telephone, FAX, and other communications with “THIS IS
AN EXERCISE.”
• Ensure any weapons being used are empty and on SAFE.
• Contact a controller in the event of an actual emergency.
Methods of Control. Exercise control, in terms of the autonomy and authority of
individual controllers, varies depending on the complexity of the simulated events, the
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number of participating organizations, and the number and experience level of the
controllers. Individual controllers may be delegated extensive, limited, or even no
authority to issue message injects and contingency message injects without the Exercise
Director or senior controller direction. The method of control for each exercise should be
identified and documented, and the controllers should be trained on their individual levels
of authority for message inject release and subsequent reporting.
Presenting Scenario Information. Controllers either initiate simulations or provide the
description of the initial conditions to the responders. Controllers should introduce
themselves and the evaluators in the area and identify the exercise safety rules.
Simulations should be identified to the responders. For example, responders might be
told that the real meteorological conditions will NOT be used and provided with the pre-
determined (“canned”) wind speed and direction. Generally, it is the controllers'
responsibility to set the stage for the event in their assigned area. The controllers depend
on directions from the lead controller.
Scenario information (including physical evidence and visual cues) should be presented
in a realistic manner to the responders as it would be found, measured, or otherwise
indicated. After a valid field measurement is taken, the controller should inject the
scenario value. For consistency and documentation, controllers should use data and
instrument readings provided in their controller packages when giving technical
information to responders. Visual cues such as victim moulage, liquids, solids, smoke,
and other stage props should be used to make the event appear to the responders as if it
were actually occurring. If emergency procedures require the use of protective
equipment and clothing, the participants should use the actual protective equipment and
clothing during the event.
Section 86
Controllers should not intercede in exercise play unless it is warranted by safety
considerations. Controllers should not prompt by providing information early, providing
more information than the responder has earned, or phrasing sentences in a way that
would cause the responders to perform an action.
Realism versus Simulation.
Making the exercise as real as safety will permit is one of a controller's prime
considerations. The more realistic the exercise is, the less information needs to be
provided to responders.
The purpose of an exercise is to demonstrate and evaluate response capabilities under
simulated emergency conditions. Although it is impossible to predict or measure
precisely what response would be under actual emergency conditions, a realistic exercise
can provide a valuable picture and assessment of the response capabilities of each
participating organization. The realistic presentation of information during exercises can
create the sense of pressure and stress inherent in actual emergency situations.
Controllers should provide information to responders in a form and manner consistent
with what would occur in an actual emergency, and present scenario information earned
DOE G 151.1-3 B-13
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by responders as a result of their actions. Responders should carry out every activity and
response action exactly as they would in an actual emergency, such as using emergency
equipment and checking instrument and meter readings. However, responders should
only walk-down or discuss the response actions that would be necessary to restore or
realign equipment using panel switches, to avoid changing critical process or plant
equipment alignments and parameters.
Free Play.
It is the controllers' responsibility to monitor free play, note activities, and intercede
when free play exceeds the limits established for the exercise or when safety is
jeopardized.
Free play is a welcome part of an exercise because it allows responders to provide unique
solutions to problems and to respond in ways not foreseen by the exercise planners. In
order for free play to be successful, it must fall within prescribed parameters. If the
responder actions compromise safety or exceed established limitations, the controller
should note the intended action but prevent that action from actually occurring.
Tracking the Scenario and Responder Actions. One of the controllers' most important
and difficult tasks is maintaining the timeline for scenario events and tracking responder
actions. Controllers should record the time of all significant events associated with their
part of the exercise, to include the following.
• Time of message delivery
• Contingency message delivery
• Responder key decisions and mitigation actions
• Free play
• Conversations with responders (or other controllers)
Controllers should note the affects of the messages on play and any unexpected activities,
and report any discrepancy/deviation in scenario progress immediately to the lead
controller. Later, controllers from different areas can meet to develop a consolidated
timeline of exercise play and discuss how the exercise progressed overall.
Maintaining Exercise Pace and Focus. The senior controller, with the assistance of the
timeline coordinator, should manage the exercise and ensure that the sequence of events
identified in the exercise timeline occurs as close to schedule as possible. Individual
controllers should follow the overall exercise timeline in order to keep their respective
parts progressing in accordance with the scenario.
Section 87
Use of the Master Scenario Event Line (MSEL).
The MSEL is one of the primary tools that controllers use to track the progress of
the scenario. Evaluators will find that the MSEL is a useful tool for determining
whether and when expected responses occur.
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The MSEL lists all exercise messages and key events in a table that specifies the time the
message delivery is expected, who delivers it to whom, a message number, and a short
description of the message. Some MSELs also contain the responder-expected actions
and associated exercise objectives to assist the controllers and evaluators in performing
their functions.
Use of Scenario Messages. Controllers use prepared scenario messages (also known as
controller injects, cue cards, and data input) included in their EXPLAN in conjunction
with the MSEL. These messages include information on the placement of props, initial
conditions, set-up of the area, and placement of observers. Messages that contain
information on activities that are dependent on the completion of other activities should
also include information on what to do if that initiating activity is not completed. If this
information is not readily available, the controller should contact the senior controller.
Exercise messages are developed to do the following:
• Create situations.
• Provide specific instructions and data.
• Correspond with activities required by emergency plans, procedures, checklists, etc.
• Notify participants of safety or compliance violations.
• Keep the scenario on track.
During the exercise, controllers inject messages through one of three methods: voice,
hard copy, or face-to-face contact.
• Voice. Controllers inject oral messages to control progress of the exercise scenario.
These messages include descriptive information that simulates an event or condition,
or they may initiate a specific activity that will keep the scenario on track. These
messages are given by the controller on location, or over the phone or radio by a
controller at a different location such as a control cell. At specified times, controllers
will contact the appropriate responder(s) and read the prepared condition or event text
verbatim.
• Hard copy. Hard copy messages are designed to simulate electronic messages,
memoranda, Material Safety Data Sheets, strip charts, news bulletins, etc. At
designated times, controllers will deliver these messages to the appropriate responder.
Messages of this type are provided on data cards or sheets of paper with appropriate
time-related facility/site and hazards parameters, real-time data generated by a
simulator or computer, or audiovisual presentations of data such as moulage, charts,
or pictures. Parameters can be posted on appropriate control room panels, on cameras
for viewing in several locations, or posted at, or generated by, computer terminals and
printers. When hard copy messages are provided, the controller makes no additional
comments.
• Face-to-face contact. Occasionally, selected controllers may play the role of a senior
official, a decision maker, or an outside agency representative. While role-playing,
DOE G 151.1-3 B-15
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the controller interacts face-to-face with participants and provides information or
responses to questions in a fashion appropriate for the role he/she is playing.
Section 88
Messages help direct the progress of the exercise and clarify situations that cannot easily
be described. Messages should normally include only information the participants could
gain with their own senses (i.e., sight, hearing, smell, touch, and taste) in their location.
Emergency situations like fires, tornados, injury of personnel, alarms sounding on control
boards, suspected intruders, and radiation monitor alarms can be described in exercise
messages.
Messages may appear in several different formats based on how they will be used during
the exercise. Message formats may include data sheets, charts, pictures, and hard copies
of voice messages. Information contained in the message should include recipient, time
of delivery, expected responder action, and any additional information or directions for
the controller. The controller should generally not give the entire hard copy of the
message to the responder. Only the information portion of the message should be
delivered to the responder. Occasionally, the controller may give a message directly to a
responder, such as a note from simulated hostage takers.
Messages should not be used to describe situations that participants can and should
recognize from facility data. A message such as “temperature is increasing” is usually
inappropriate because it prompts responders with information that would not be provided
in that form in a real emergency. The controller should understand and be aware of the
action that a responder should take in response to a message. Thus, a message with an
“actions expected” section may be provided to controllers (not passed to participants) so
that they will be aware of what the responders should do.
Generally, controllers should provide the information to the responders as they progress
through the scenario and “earn” information. To earn information, responders must act in
a manner that would provide them the information in a real event. For example, if a
message states that the oil bull's-eye on a pump is empty, the controller should provide
that information when the participant looks at the bull's-eye. If participants follow
appropriate steps for obtaining information, the controller may then provide it.
Controllers should only provide earned information and nothing else that would instruct
responders how to proceed.
For simulated events such as fires, controllers should provide the “scene setting”
information as responders earn it. For example, in approaching a closed fire door, the
controller should tell a team member “the door is hot” only after the team member has
actually touched the door. Likewise, the team member would be told “the room is filled
with smoke” only after the door has been opened. Information is provided in a sequence
replicating the approach to an actual fire.
Contingency Messages. Controllers use contingency messages to force an action by a
responder or response organization to keep the exercise on track. Controllers should
issue contingency messages in accordance with the pre-established exercise protocol for
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their use. If responder actions require a contingency message, the controller should
contact the responsible lead controller before injecting the message.
Contingency messages provide supplemental symptoms or necessary information
specifying existing conditions that will elicit the appropriate decision or response.
Contingency messages should begin with an explicit directive such as the following.
Section 89
• “Declare a General Emergency for the following reasons....”
• “Contact the state at this time to recommend the following action....”
• “To keep the exercise on track, order a site assembly at this time.”
In some cases, a contingency message may be issued solely to keep the exercise scenario
coordinated. An example contingency message would be one preventing operations
personnel from beginning a radiological release until a pre-established time so that time-
dependent, hard copy radiological data remain credible for the facility/site status and
conditions being simulated.
A negative exercise finding may result if exercise play does not occur as expected and
responders must be provided a contingency message to induce activities that should have
occurred without controller intervention.
Suspension or Termination of an Exercise.
The controller's role in suspending, restarting, or terminating an exercise is to
ensure that responders clearly understand when these actions have been
implemented. Controllers also provide specific instructions to responders covering
any requirements or activities they must undertake. In the case of restart,
responders may have to “redo” activities because they are critical for responder
performance at other locations.
Suspension or termination of an exercise is managed through the control organization.
Responders are instructed to contact a controller when an unsafe condition exists or when
an actual emergency is identified. The EXPLAN identifies how the control organization
will be notified and the procedures for exercise suspension, restart, and/or termination.
Figure B-2 is an example of suspension and termination instructions.
• Suspension. Provisions for suspension or premature termination of the exercise for
safety reasons are provided in the controller package. If an unidentified or
questionable situation arises that may affect the participants, a controller may suspend
play and immediately notify the senior controller. Play may be restarted if the
situation is resolved.
In the event of a real emergency, it is the controller's responsibility to suspend the
exercise in the immediate area for which he/she is responsible and to contact the
senior controller. An actual emergency always takes precedence over an exercise. If
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necessary, the Exercise Director may terminate the exercise so that resources can be
devoted to the real emergency.
• Termination. Information concerning the procedures and protocol for terminating an
exercise are included in the controller package and reviewed at the pre-exercise
briefing. Termination of the exercise at any time is under the authority of the
Exercise Director. Upon notification from the Exercise Director or a lead controller,
the controllers should immediately announce the termination of the exercise, record
the time, and ensure that responder exercise activity ceases.
In general, an exercise will be terminated when one of the following conditions is met.
• Exercise objectives have been met and the pace of play indicates that major events
have been drawn to a logical conclusion.
• Enough time has elapsed to allow the objectives to be demonstrated.
• An actual emergency occurs.
SAMPLE SUSPENSION AND TERMINATION INSTRUCTIONS
Section 90
The exercise is scheduled to begin at 8:00 a.m. Mountain Standard Time (MST) or 10:00 a.m.
Eastern Standard Time (EST). No responders should be pre-positioned, and response should be
in accordance with established policies and procedures. The exercise is scheduled to run 6 hours
with termination at 2:00 p.m. MST/4:00 p.m. EST. Each emergency response facility
participating in the exercise should conduct a critique of their involvement immediately
following the exercise. All controllers and evaluators are expected to take notes of items
identified by the exercise responders. If controllers or evaluators are asked for their impressions
of how things went, specific issues or problems should not be discussed.
The exercise may be terminated by the Exercise Director when exercise objectives have either
been demonstrated or given an adequate opportunity to be demonstrated. Following consultation
with the senior controller and lead exercise evaluator, the Exercise Director will make the
announcement concerning exercise termination.
If an actual emergency occurs, the exercise may be suspended or terminated at the discretion of
the Exercise Director. DOE/NNSA, Federal, State, Tribal, local, or DOE/NNSA contractor
authorities, depending on the nature of the incident, may recommend termination to the Exercise
Director.
If the exercise is suspended, the controllers will instruct the responders to safely stop in place.
The conditions for restart of the exercise will be determined by the exercise director in
consultation with the lead control personnel from the participating organizations. The controllers
will be instructed on restart conditions.
Figure B-2. Sample Suspension and Termination Instructions
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Sometimes, facility locations and offsite organizations have specific objectives
(e.g., recovery and reentry) that are not applicable to other exercise locations. If that is
the case, the senior controller should determine the extent of play necessary to permit
those locations/agencies to meet their objectives. In such cases, termination of an
exercise may be staggered for different groups of responders.
Premature termination of an exercise presents a problem among response organizations in
that it may preclude them from meeting their objectives. To prevent premature
termination, the Exercise Director should obtain concurrence from lead controllers that
objectives have been demonstrated or sufficient opportunity has been provided for the
objectives to be demonstrated prior to terminating the exercise.
B.3.3 Post-Exercise Activities
The two primary post-exercise duties for controllers are facilitation of responder
“hotwash” critiques immediately following the exercise and participation in the exercise
evaluation process. Since the controllers ensured the pace and focus of the exercise, they
have unique understanding of who performed response actions when and why and,
therefore, typically lead the hot wash critiques. Controllers typically provide input to the
critique and evaluation process because of their in-depth familiarity with the exercise
activities and responder actions.
B.4 Evaluator Activities
Preparation is the key to effective evaluation. Persons assigned as evaluators must
be thoroughly prepared and cannot simply show up on the day of the exercise.
Evaluations depend significantly on the way the facility/site responds to an
emergency and should be based on the specific emergency management program
and specific scenario.
Section 91
B.4.1 Pre-Exercise Activities
Evaluators should be trained and thoroughly prepared for their assigned duties for each
exercise. Understanding the scope, exercise objectives, and evaluation criteria, and being
familiar with emergency plans and implementation procedures will help ensure that the
evaluators can concentrate on observing the actions of the responders.
Evaluators have the following three primary responsibilities prior to the exercise:
• Obtain and review all emergency plans, procedures, and checklists for the activities to
be evaluated.
• Understand the exercise objectives and know how they relate to the evaluation
criteria.
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• Attend the pre-exercise briefing for controllers/evaluators. Also attend, if presented,
the exercise safety briefing for all participants that is separate from the other pre-
exercise briefings.
Additional information about the site or facility being evaluated should be provided to
those evaluators who work at another facility or site. This information should include the
ERO structure, procedures, notifications, communication systems, Incident Command
System, facility walk-downs, and maps.
Emergency Plans and Implementation Procedures
Evaluators should understand the Emergency Plans and implementation
procedures being used by the responders they are evaluating. The evaluation
includes an assessment of responder implementation of the plans and procedures,
as well as an assessment of the adequacy of these plans and procedures.
Emergency Plans and Procedures are frequently updated. Failure to review plans and
procedures may result in evaluator errors and skewed evaluation results. The person
assigned as lead evaluator should ensure that evaluators receive plans and procedures far
enough in advance to allow for a thorough review and evaluators assigned to the exercise
know the importance of the plan and procedure review.
Exercise Objectives, Criteria, and Checklist Relationship
Evaluators must understand the relationships between the exercise scope,
objectives, evaluation criteria and the evaluator checklists prior to the exercise.
This relationship provides the evaluator with insight on what has to be done, which
items are critical, and how observations should be classified.
Exercises test response capabilities according to a set of measurable exercise objectives.
Each objective is associated with a standard of performance or criterion, which must be
met to demonstrate that objective. Checklists are derived from these criteria to assist
evaluators in measuring performance. The relationships between these elements and how
they fit together in the evaluation process are described in the following paragraphs.
Generic exercise evaluation criteria are provided for each Program Element in Chapter 4
Appendix D of DOE G 151.1-3, and should be used to develop facility- and exercise-
specific evaluation criteria as part of the exercise development process. Evaluators use
exercise-specific criteria to determine whether exercise objectives have been adequately
demonstrated. Figure B-3 exemplifies how evaluation objectives, criteria, and checklist
items are tied together in evaluation materials.
Though checklists vary from site to site, they should contain the following items:
• Method for recording a chronology or timeline of observed events
• Standards related to a specific exercise objective
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• References for that standard
Section 92
• Criteria associated with the standard
• Activity-specific criteria (list of activities to look for)
• Method for documentation and comment on these specific activities
Evaluation checklists for documenting specific activities may vary from yes-or-no
answers for activity-specific criteria to numerical evaluations and/or evaluator comments.
Standardized forms may simplify the process of documenting observations and analyzing
the combined results. A simple form with brief instructions and space to list identified
concerns works well, as does a checklist that uses a rating system for the objectives.
Evaluation forms should be as straightforward as possible and should have space to
identify the evaluator, location, activity observed, responders observed, and the time and
date.
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Objective: Activate the EOC, achieve operational status, and staff the EOC in accordance
with xxxxx procedures.
Criteria:
P/E8.1 A facility is available for use as a command center by the Emergency Director (ED) and the
members of the ERO during an emergency response.
P/E6.7 The ERO activation is based on actual or potential emergency conditions.
P/E6.8 Initial response functions are performed by on shift operations staff.
P/E6.9 The ERO is functionally staffed and activated in a timely manner; key emergency response
facilities are operational within an hour after declaration of an Operational Emergency.
References: Site Emergency Plan, Site EOC Implementing Procedure
CHECKLIST
Criterion P/E8.1 -
____A facility is available for use as an EOC.
Criterion P/E6.7 -
____ERO activation is based on criteria specified in the Emergency Plan
Criterion P/E6.8 –
____On shift operations staff has completed initial response functions according to the Emergency Plan.
Criterion P/E6.9 -
1. The following positions were staffed within 1 hour:
___ Emergency Director
___ Federal Communicator
___ Plume Modeler
___ . . . per procedure
2. The Emergency Director:
___ Completed a turnover from the shift supervisor and assumed overall direction and control within
15 minutes of arrival at the EOC
___ . . . per procedure
OBJECTIVE STATUS
MET ______ NOT MET______ NOT OBSERVED______
JUSTIFICATION:
Figure B-3. Sample Evaluation Form
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Evaluator Package. Evaluators are issued materials for review prior to the exercise
evaluator briefing. The evaluator package is a subset of the items provided in the
EXPLAN, as well as specific evaluator instructions and other items. Because the
EXPLAN can be very large, evaluators should reorganize the information or remove
sections from the EXPLAN for field use so that the information critical to their
assignment is readily accessible. They should bring the package to the exercise-specific
briefing and be prepared to discuss any questions related to the packages. The evaluator
package should include the following information:
• Cover letter discussing scenario confidentiality and providing a point-of-contact
• Chart or listing of the evaluation organization
• Plans, procedures, and checklists used by the organization or people evaluated
• Detailed instructions for the evaluator, including a schedule of events
• Exercise scope
• Exercise objectives and evaluation criteria
• Evaluation checklist(s) and materials
• Scenario material
• Site map(s)
Section 93
Instructions. Evaluators are provided with general and specific instructions for
supporting pre-exercise setup, exercise conduct, and exercise evaluation (see
Figure B-4). Information provided in evaluator instructions may include the following:
• Location and layout of the facility or function to be evaluated
• Expected time of responder arrival
• Logistical information
• Communication contacts and equipment
• Applicable plans and implementation procedures
• Potential problem areas
• Approved simulations
Each evaluator should review and become familiar with the specific information provided
in the package.
DOE G 151.1-3 B-23
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SAMPLE EVALUATOR INSTRUCTIONS
EOC EVALUATOR ________________________<Name>
1. Participate in the evaluator pre-exercise briefing on May 10, 2xxx, at 11:00 a.m. in the
(location).
2. Report to the visitor center not later than 6:30 a.m. on the morning of the exercise for
transportation to the EOC. Bring your evaluator package with you.
3. You will receive your lunch and “evaluator” identification at the EOC.
4. Check in with the lead evaluator by telephone (X-1234) when you arrive at the EOC.
5. Coordinate with the EOC controller for conduct of the responder critique after the
exercise.
6. Report to the <location> at 5:00 p.m. for the evaluator debriefing. Bring your evaluation
sheets, checklists, and notes from the critiques. Dinner will be provided. The meeting
will not go past 10:00 p.m.
7. Attend the DOE management debriefing at 8:00 a.m. the morning after the exercise. The
debriefing will be conducted at the Federal Building, Room 123.
Figure B-4. Sample Evaluator Instructions
Exercise-Specific Training. Exercise-specific training is conducted prior to the exercise
and assists in preparation of the evaluators to perform their functions. It may be
combined with the controller training and includes a detailed briefing on exercise
activities and the scenario. This training provides the opportunity for evaluators to ask
questions and to ensure they completely understand their roles and responsibilities.
Evaluator questions should be addressed and information clarified so that evaluators feel
confident they can effectively perform their assignments.
B.4.2 Activities during the Exercise
During the exercise, an evaluator's primary responsibility is to document
observations of responder activities. This includes maintaining a chronology of
events and using the checklists to ensure that accomplishment of key actions has
been recorded.
Evaluators should report to their appropriate staging areas with any notes, evaluation
criteria forms, evaluator identification, safety equipment (hard hats, safety glasses), and
other evaluation materials. In addition, evaluators need to ensure communication
arrangements are adequate and verify that any equipment they will be using is in working
order.
During the exercise, evaluators should address any questions or needs for clarification of
information to the controllers. They should not interact with responders to preclude
prompting responders or interfering with responder performance.
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Realism versus Simulation. The purpose of an exercise is to demonstrate and evaluate
response capabilities under simulated conditions. Even though responders know that the
events are simulated and that an actual emergency is not occurring, realistic presentation
of information can create an atmosphere that parallels that of a real emergency. The
exercise should be planned so that events and required responses are as realistic as
possible, thereby mimicking the sense of stress inherent in any actual emergency
situation.
Section 94
Whenever possible, every activity and response action should be carried out exactly as it
would be if the events were real. Controllers should provide information to responders in
a form and manner consistent with what would occur during an emergency and as a result
of specific events or actions taken by the responders. Responders must earn information
(e.g., attempt to check instruments, perform meter readings, or take vital signs) before
they are given the information. However, responder(s) should “walk or talk through”,
rather than actually perform response actions to restore or realign equipment using panel
switches to avoid changing critical process or facility equipment alignments and
parameters. Evaluators should evaluate methods used by controllers in acting on or the
disseminating scenario information.
Free Play. During an exercise, responders may interject mitigating actions that are not
included in, but can be accommodated by, the scenario. In some cases, the scenario
timeline will be modified to accommodate this free play. The controller team is
responsible for controlling free play
Evaluators should note any free play activities in the exercise and the actions taken by the
responders. Free play may indicate a better understanding of emergency management
and response activities by the responders than the exercise planners. Evaluators need to
be aware of what is going on between controllers and responders during free play so they
can document the actions.
Actual equipment and procedural problems during the conduct of an exercise interject a
form of free play. Responders' solutions to actual equipment or procedural problems on a
real-time basis during the exercise afford a valuable opportunity to evaluate the conduct
and training of the responders. Controllers should allow responders to solve such
problems unless safety is compromised or exercise limitations are exceeded.
During the exercise, the primary duty of evaluators is to document responder
performance. After the exercise, that data will be used to determine whether the exercise
objectives were demonstrated.
Scenario Confidentiality. Scenario information should be closely guarded to ensure its
confidentiality. If responders are aware of the scenario beforehand, it will skew any
assessment of the emergency response capabilities. The following are some guidelines
for evaluators:
• Evaluators should be careful of what they say and to whom because it may be
overheard.
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• Evaluators should be careful when positioning themselves to observe an activity to
ensure they do not give away information by their actions.
• Evaluators should ensure that no one sees their scenario material or comments. They
should never lay their scenarios, notes, or messages in a location where responders
can read them.
Documenting the Exercise.
Evaluators observe and document responder activities during the exercise. It is
essential that evaluators keep accurate records and notes because these will form
the basis for evaluation of performance.
The value of exercise evaluation is the ability to provide constructive feedback (positive
or negative) to improve and enhance the effectiveness of an organization’s response to
emergencies. Accurate and detailed documentation is critical in facilitating a full record
of all the events in an exercise and an understanding of responder actions.
Section 95
Evaluators document the exercise by maintaining a chronology of important events,
decisions, and actions in their area. Evaluators should document key activities for later
evaluation, especially those that require a timely response. A list of these important
events is included as part of the EXPLAN - in the timeline or MSEL. Highlighting or
noting events that occur in an evaluator’s assigned location(s) is an effective way to track
responder activity.
Evaluators should review their chronologies and notes immediately following termination
to ensure an accurate reconstruction of events and activities for discussion at critique and
evaluation sessions. Evaluation materials, as well as critique notes and forms, become
part of the exercise documentation. Checklists and evaluation forms should be completed
as thoroughly and accurately as possible.
Evaluation Basics. Experienced evaluators use the following techniques for effective
observation and evaluation:
• Use checklists to confirm that exercise objectives are met.
• Take detailed notes concerning significant activities observed, including the time of
occurrence.
• When more than one evaluator is assigned a facility/area, divide responsibilities to
ensure detailed observation of responder activities.
• Stay in close proximity to responder decision makers.
• Focus on critical activities (e.g., dose assessment decisions, protective action
decisions, command and control issues).
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Although numerous events may occur simultaneously, evaluators do not need to record
all of the action. Knowing which events are important eliminates superfluous
information and provides the kind of data most useful for exercise evaluation. Important
events to record include the following:
• Initiating scenario events (including when responders first detect abnormal
conditions)
• Emergency facility activation and staffing completion
• Reactions of responders to the scenario
• Key decisions made by managers and the time they were made
• Deviations from plans and implementation procedures
• Times when mitigating actions were completed
Locations for Monitoring. Evaluators should be located so that they can observe
responder actions and hear conversations without interfering with those activities.
Certain conditions may warrant more than one evaluator being located in a setting or
area.
What information is critical to collect? Individuals who prepare the AAR will analyze
the results provided by all evaluators to achieve an integrated evaluation of response
capabilities. Their analysis will focus on the measures taken to mitigate the simulated
emergency, the timing of key events, decisions made, and actions taken. Potential
problem areas include the following:
• Lack of timeliness in mitigating actions
• Ineffective communication among responders and organizations
• Inadequate direction and coordination of field activities
• Inability to monitor and assess scenario events
• Ineffective command and control at the scene or response facility
• Control problems that hinder conduct of the exercise
• Responder deviations from plans and implementation procedures
• Unclear plans or procedures that hinder responder efforts
• Facility or equipment shortcomings that hinder responder efforts
Evaluator Do's and Don'ts. Evaluators should know that scenario data and conditions
must not be changed without obtaining the permission of the Exercise Director or other
designated persons. Evaluators should not interfere with a responder's action, unless
there is safety issue. Responders should be free to make their own decisions and should
Section 96
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act on those decisions without interference. Listed below are reminder do's and don'ts for
evaluators.
Do's:
• Be familiar with other controllers and evaluators.
• Remember that there may be two time frames, a scenario time and a real time.
Scenario time may compress events so that several days are played in a few hours.
• Note any communications passed between time zones.
• Identify the participants by title and function.
• Be easily identifiable. Wear the prescribed identifier (e.g., arm band, shirt, or name
tag).
• Position yourself to maximize your effectiveness.
• Locate the telephone or radio (for field teams) you will use and know how to use it.
• Be sure you understand the scenario. Know precisely what level of simulation is
required and acceptable.
• Work with the other evaluators. Make sure they are reasonably aware of your actions
and those of the responders.
• Make notes on responder's strengths and weaknesses related to the activities, as well
as areas for improvement. Use critique sheets.
• Attend responder hot wash critique to document observations.
• Attend the post exercise critique session to provide your comments (if appropriate)
and recommendations to the Exercise Director.
• Complete evaluation forms as soon as possible following termination of the exercise,
while details are still clear in your mind. Identify your observations.
• Collect copies of exercise-generated documents such as notifications forms, media
releases, employee announcements, consequence assessments, etc.
Don'ts:
• Don't leave your post at key times.
• Don't ever prompt a responder!
• Don't get in the way.
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• Don't answer questions from responders; refer them to the controller.
Termination of the Exercise. Upon notification from the Exercise Director or the senior
controller, controllers will announce the termination of the exercise. Evaluators should
note the time and circumstances associated with the termination.
B.4.3 Post-Exercise Activities
The primary post-exercise duties for evaluators are documentation of responder hotwash
critiques immediately following the exercise, participation in the exercise organization
critiques, and the exercise evaluation and report-writing processes. Evaluators will work
with other members of the exercise organization during the evaluation process to
“complete the picture” of responder actions and assess whether objectives were met, and
what improvements or corrective actions are needed. These evaluation activities are
covered in Section B.5, below. Specific instructions, guidelines, and schedules for
evaluators will be in their evaluator packages.
B.5 Exercise Critique and Evaluation Process
Controllers and evaluators participate differently in the exercise evaluation process.
While the majority of controller activity occurs during the exercise, evaluators perform
the majority of their functions after the exercise is completed. Both groups make
significant contributions to the evaluation process.
B.5.1 Evaluation Input
In addition to evaluator observations and documentation, the following sources of
information may be used to evaluate the exercise.
• Self-critique forms
• Exercise critique comments
• Exercise evaluation materials completed by controllers
• Observations contained in the post-exercise reports submitted by participating
agencies
B.5.2 Critique of the Exercise
Section 97
A series of formal critiques is conducted after the exercise to provide participants
(responders, controllers, and evaluators) the opportunity to identify and discuss
observations (both positive and negative).
Responder “Hotwash”/Critique. This critique occurs immediately after the exercise and
is facilitated by the controller team at each location. The purpose of the critique is to
provide a forum for constructive feedback on the exercise by the responders. The
identification of both positive and negative observations provides a starting point for
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improving emergency response capabilities. This is a unique opportunity for responders
to discuss the event and to provide their own perspectives on the activities. Controllers
may partake in the discussion of the observations. Evaluators usually remain silent and
document the observations and feedback from the responders.
The critique should be performed while exercise activities are still fresh in the minds of
the responders, controllers, and evaluators. Responders may identify any weaknesses,
shortfalls, or improvement items. They evaluate their plans, procedures, and task
checklists for specific response organization positions, equipment and supplies, facility
layout, and performance. For smaller exercises, the facility director (exercise responder)
often conducts the critique, but it may also be under the direction of the facility lead
controller. Controllers should answer questions on the timeline and scenario. This
session can also be used to clarify and verify any information on which there were
questions. Responders usually have a basic understanding and evaluation of their job
performance during the exercise.
Controllers and evaluators should not provide the responders with details of any
observations during this critique. Controller input should be limited to feedback
concerning the actual event scenario, as opposed to the outcome of exercise.
Responders should be reminded that all controller/evaluator observations are preliminary
and may be revised based on information from other evaluators.
If an evaluator or controller did not observe specific aspects of an organization's
performance, the exercise responders may be asked to comment. Since it is critical that
the evaluators not prompt or coach responders during the exercise, the evaluator should
raise all questions of this nature through the controller after the exercise activities have
been completed. These aspects should be indicated in the evaluation as being provided
by responders.
A responder self-critique form can be used for documenting responder information about
the exercise. Normally, the controller distributes these forms immediately before the
critique begins. They should be collected after the critiques along with all attendance or
participation rosters. Controllers should emphasize to responders that the self-critique
forms provide the opportunity to candidly comment on emergency response activities and
effectiveness of the exercise.
Evaluation Critique. This critique session generally occurs the day following the exercise
and includes participation by all controllers and evaluators. This critique should provide
the forum for discussion and correlation of individual observations, the formulation of
exercise findings, determination of objectives demonstrated, and determination of overall
exercise performance. Preliminary discussion on recommendations for corrective and
improvement actions should be initiated.
Section 98
Formal critique sessions are usually several hours in length and address, at a minimum,
the following elements.
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• Reconstruction and review of scenario events and shortcomings in the scenario or
exercise conduct.
• A comparison of anticipated versus actual responder activities.
• An assessment of performance based objectives and criteria.
• An assessment of the adequacy of plans and procedures.
• An assessment of the adequacy of facilities, equipment, and communications.
The first part of the critique is devoted to reconstruction of scenario events and response
activities. Timelines should be reproduced for major evaluations, such as the
troubleshooting and restoration of a needed piece of vital equipment. At this time,
evaluators will organize and consolidate their documented observations. The controllers
will provide input to the evaluators' documentation.
After this initial documentation is complete, the lead evaluator for the exercise will
facilitate a review of the events (using the timeline) to document the interactions between
response organizations. This is generally time-consuming, but it provides the
information required to check the communication process among all response
organizations, resulting in a consolidated exercise timeline of events that actually
occurred.
After this process is completed, the individual evaluators should have sufficient
information available for determining whether the responders demonstrated the exercise
objectives. Although the evaluation is primarily concerned with the exercise objectives,
collateral observations of responder activities that should be mentioned (positive and
negative) are documented.
Each evaluator should develop a rationale for the evaluation from their respective point
of view. This assists the evaluation report writer in assessing conflicting information that
may occur from different sources. When the exercise demonstration is substantially at
variance with what was expected, the evaluator should describe this in enough detail to
provide a sense of what occurred.
The critique should end with a discussion of the preliminary results of responder
performance for each exercise objective. Evaluator notes and materials should be
collected at the conclusion of this session.
Senior Management Briefing/Critique. Key participants should attend a senior
management critique, including: management-level responders, the exercise director, the
lead controller(s) and the lead evaluator(s). The overall exercise performance, significant
observations, findings, and preliminary corrective and improvement actions should be
addressed.
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B.6 Exercise Report
The AAR is prepared by the evaluation team to document evaluation of overall exercise
performance. This report is the responsibility of the lead evaluator. Information from the
formal evaluation and critique process provides the supporting documentation necessary
to generate the exercise report. Additional exercise reports may also be prepared by any
external Departmental organizations that evaluated the exercise.
The AAR covers the schedule, scenario, participants' activities, observations, and
recommendations for corrective actions. The AAR considers the observations and
evaluations made by the evaluators, controllers, responders (self-critiques), and other
participating organizations. The AAR may contain the following.
• Executive Summary
Section 99
• A narrative summary with introductory and general statements noting exercise scope,
purpose, objectives, participants, and an overall performance (rating may or may not
be assigned) of the exercise.
• Detailed findings for each objective, including positive and negative comments
regarding the effectiveness of emergency planning and preparedness elements.
• Recommendations for correcting negative findings.
Once the AAR has been drafted, the evaluators should review the report for accuracy.
Evaluator findings will in turn be reviewed to ensure responders were measured against
the evaluated organization's plans and procedures. Because perceptions differ, the report
writers may find it necessary to adjust or “level” various findings to achieve
standardization and consistency within the AAR. The lead evaluator should approve the
leveling of any findings.
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4. READINESS ASSURANCE
4.1 Introduction
The purpose of this chapter is to assist DOE and NNSA field elements in complying with
the DOE O 151.1C requirement that a Readiness Assurance program be in place to assure
that emergency plans, implementing procedures, and resources are adequate and
sufficiently maintained, exercised, and evaluated and that improvements are made in
response to identified needs.
Readiness assurance programs provide assurances that the key activities of emergency
management (planning, preparedness and response) are effective in maintaining an
adequate and reliable response. Readiness assurance performs an essential role in the
development, management, and improvement of emergency management programs. Its
structured process of evaluations followed by a rigorous implementation and tracking of
program improvement ensures an efficient and timely progression toward a high quality
emergency management program. For this reason, this chapter of the Emergency
Management Guide (EMG) will stress the importance of and provide guidance for the
implementation of a formal, structured, and reliable readiness assurance program for each
DOE/NNSA facility/site and activity.
The readiness assurance requirements in DOE O 151.1C and the guidance contained in
this chapter are consistent with DOE P 226.1, Department of Energy Oversight Policy,
and DOE O 226.1, Implementation of Department of Energy Oversight. DOE P 226.1
establishes that all levels of the Department must have an assurance system to pursue
excellence through continuous improvement. DOE O 151.1C requires all levels of the
Comprehensive Emergency Management System, facility/site or activity (contractor),
Cognizant Field Element, and Cognizant Secretarial Officer to conduct annual self-
assessment of their programs. This chapter of the guidance concentrates on acceptable
methods of implementing those requirements at the facility/site or activity level, with
Section 4.6 specifically addressing self-assessments.
In addition, DOE O 151.1C follows the DOE Oversight Model (DOE P 226.1) with
readiness assurance requirements for the Cognizant Field Element and Cognizant
Secretarial Officer to ensure the continuous improvement of the Comprehensive
Emergency Management System at all levels of the Department. Teams from the
Cognizant Field Element and/or Cognizant Secretarial Office levels most often employ
the structured approach to emergency management evaluations discussed in Section 4.4.
The DOE Office of Health, Safety, and Security, Office of Emergency Management
Oversight (HS-63) conducts independent oversight of emergency management programs.
Section 100
A potential readiness assurance effort is the use of an accreditation program at the site
level. Under the auspices of the Emergency Management Issues Special Interest Group
(EMI SIG), an Emergency Management Accreditation (EMA) Program is under
development. Accreditation provides an evaluation of the site emergency management
program by independent third-party evaluators. The accreditation process focuses
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attention on areas that need improvement as well as recognition of excellence. The EMA
Program goes beyond the minimum DOE O 151.1C requirements for each program to
conduct an annual self-assessment of the emergency management program. The
accreditation program is optional -- sites may or may not elect to pursue accreditation.
After successful conduct and validation of a pilot accreditation assessment,
corresponding guidance will be developed.
Section 4.2 presents a discussion of the general approach to readiness assurance
evaluations and continuous improvement. Section 4.3 contains an approach for
implementing a formal readiness assurance program of evaluations, improvement, and
documentation. The discussion in Section 4.4 introduces performance-based evaluations
and their application to the emergency management program elements, using a standard
set of evaluation criteria. The process of evaluating programs is detailed in Section 4.5,
self-assessments and post-accident evaluations are addressed in Sections 4.6 and 4.7,
respectively, and a basis and approach for developing performance indicators for
emergency management programs is presented in Section 4.8. Format and content
guidance for Emergency Response Assurance Plans (ERAPs), criteria for performance-
based evaluations, and a systematic approach for performing self-assessments are
contained in Appendices C, D, and E, respectively.
This guidance is designed primarily for facilities/sites and activities required to
implement an Operational Emergency Hazardous Material Program and is directed at
operations and emergency management staff at Field Elements and operating contractor
organizations responsible for DOE and NNSA facilities/sites and activities. The
guidance focuses specifically on the personnel responsible for implementing readiness
assurance programs and DOE/NNSA personnel responsible for performing evaluations
and monitoring corrective actions while overseeing emergency management programs.
4.2 General Approach
DOE O 151.1C defines the framework of a readiness assurance program consisting of
evaluations, improvement, and documentation. The Order specifies the responsibilities
of the facility/site or activity in performing internal evaluations (self-assessments) to
monitor their own programs, in addition to their responsibilities to respond to the external
oversight evaluation activities of DOE/NNSA Headquarters and Field elements. The
facility/site or activity must ensure that appropriate and timely improvements are made in
response to needs identified through these evaluations, and through other activities such
as training and drills. A formal tracking system monitors the implementation,
verification, and validation of improvements made through corrective actions developed
for findings from all sources. A formal program must be implemented that takes
advantage of lessons learned from DOE/NNSA programs, as well as other similar
government and private activities. Finally, facilities/sites and activities are required to
develop or contribute to an ERAP that documents the readiness of the emergency
management program based on emergency planning and preparedness activities and the
results of the readiness assurance program, including evaluations and improvements.
Thus, the key elements of a readiness assurance program to be discussed in this guide are
Section 101
DOE G 151.1-3 4-3
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the evaluation program, the improvement program, and documentation of readiness
assurance results and forecast of activities in the ERAP.
Managing a readiness assurance program requires that the emergency management
organization take a systematic and structured approach to carrying out and/or integrating
the results of program evaluations, program improvement, and the program planning
reflected in the ERAP. Readiness assurance evaluation programs must be managed
intentionally to test and evaluate all emergency management functions and activities. In
addition, the evaluation program should be based on identified needs each year, focusing
on areas where the organization has shown that it needs improved performance. The
improvement program must ensure that corrective actions are rigorously developed and
implemented, verified and validated, to correct identified problems, pursue lessons
learned, and acquire relevant experience from other sites and industries. Annually, the
organization should assess its overall readiness and identify resources needed to address
improvements, as necessary.
As will become evident in subsequent discussions, no single evaluation tool provides the
complete readiness evaluation required for readiness assurance. Also, the evaluation
tools by themselves are not sufficient without an effective improvement process. Finally,
management commitment and support is essential for committing resources necessary to
meet requirements, conduct evaluations, correct deficiencies and weaknesses, and
institute an effective lessons learned program. The elements of the readiness assurance
program give the emergency management organization a framework to determine what is
needed to ensure a viable emergency management, supported by convincing evidence.
Hence, the readiness assurance program should be a comprehensive system, a “collage”
of redundant and complementary evaluations, which provide both general and focused
program validation, combined with a reliable, continuous improvement process.
4.3 Readiness Assurance Program
The DOE/NNSA emergency management Order requires that each facility/site or activity
implement a readiness assurance program consisting of the following three components:
evaluations, improvements, and documentation. The discussion in this section will
address this framework as follows:
• Evaluation Program: Provides guidance on what to evaluate and methods of
evaluation.
• Improvement Program: Provides guidance on the concepts of corrective actions, and
lessons-learned, and the importance of management support.
• Documentation: Provides guidance on development and submittal of ERAP.
In the sections that follow, each component of the readiness assurance program will be
addressed, providing guidance for developing and maintaining a rigorous continuous
improvement process.
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4.3.1 Evaluation Program
The first component of readiness assurance is the evaluation program. The purpose of
evaluations is to identify problems in the emergency management program, usually
focused on the DOE/NNSA emergency management Program Elements and their
associated activities and functions. If problems are found, then improvements can be
accomplished. This process is repeated periodically, so that continuous improvement
becomes a constant component of the emergency management program. When no
significant problems are identified (i.e., no Deficiencies or Weaknesses), then the results
provide periodic assurances that emergency capabilities are sufficient to implement
emergency plans in response to Operational Emergencies (OEs).
Section 102
Evaluations of an emergency management program are focused on three general areas:
• Technical planning basis, plans, procedures and supporting analyses
• Preparedness activities
• Response performance
The first area focuses on the technical planning basis for the emergency management
program and emergency plans, procedures, and supporting analyses developed to
implement the program. The second area includes the planning and preparedness
activities, which support and maintain the program. Finally, the response performance
involves the implementation of the emergency plan and procedures in applying the
response capabilities to mitigate consequences and protect people and the environment.
Evaluations in the first two areas involve an assessment of projected response, based on
observations resulting from document and analyses reviews, training data analysis and
validation tests, the exercise program, corrective action tracking, etc. The response
performance involves direct observations of actual integrated response to a simulated
emergency situation.
Evaluations of projected response based on plans, procedures, supporting analyses, and
preparedness activities can be comprehensive, since the documented response planning
and the preparedness activities are intended to apply to the full planning basis of the
program. However, evaluators are limited in their ability to assess, and hence, predict
actual responder performance since they observe no demonstration of trained responders.
They must simply rely on their assessment of the training responders have received and
the plans/procedures they are to follow. In contrast, given the necessary resources,
evaluations of demonstrated response are unlimited in reviewing and assessing all aspects
of the responder performance. However, they are not comprehensive since the response
evaluated is focused only on one scenario from the technical planning basis. The value of
these two evaluation techniques (i.e., projected and actual response) lies in their
complimentary aspects, one compensating for the weaknesses in the other. Both
techniques should be conducted as part of an effective readiness assurance program.
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Tools or processes for performing formal evaluations can differ for each of the program
components discussed above, as follows:
• Plans, procedures, supporting analyses, and preparedness activities are evaluated
using the following evaluation tools:
– Program Evaluations
– Performance Indicators
• Response performance is evaluated using:
– Limited Scope Performance Tests (LSPTs)
– Exercise Evaluations
– Performance Indicators
Program Evaluations. Program evaluations involve a comprehensive examination and
assessment of the readiness of an emergency management program, based on data
collected from the following sources: documents, response tools, interviews,
preparedness observations and data/records analyses. None of these sources or associated
collection methods provides the evaluator with a complete picture of the emergency
management program, as indicated below:
• Document reviews – Expected/projected performance only.
• Operation/utilization of response tools – Demonstrates that tools are in place, but not
their correct use in a response.
• Interviews with responders – Less stressful environment than a response.
• Observations of training and drills – Lack of realism; less stressful environment.
Section 103
• Analysis of preparedness data (e.g., training and participation records) – Verification
of training and participation not a validation of training effectiveness.
Performance Indicators. Performance indicators also represent an evaluation tool for
monitoring, tracking, and analyzing specific parameters that reflect the characteristics of
a program’s preparedness activities. They can provide a timely indication of problems
developing in program readiness, if key parameters have been identified that might
predict performance degradation. Performance indicators, which reflect response
performance obtained directly from observations during exercises, can also be used to
track and identify unacceptable trends associated with responder activities. Section 4.7
addresses performance indicators in more detail.
Limited Scope Performance Test (LSPTs). The LSPT is a technique used by evaluators
to observe and evaluate performance in a single emergency response function or task.
The test is conducted in isolation, separate from any other response functions or
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activities, usually in a classroom-like setting. LSPTs involve an evaluation of the
performance of a small group of responders or may focus on individual responders.
Generally, scenario information is presented to the responder(s) who in turn are asked to
demonstrate knowledge of procedures, familiarity with interfaces, required
communications, resources, and decision-making capabilities. Example applications of
the LSPT may include:
• Assessing the capability of site personnel who are responsible for emergency
categorization and classification to make decisions and communicate those decisions
as required by site procedures and Emergency Action Levels (EALs).
• Testing select managers on ability to develop and implement a reentry plan in
response to a security initiated chemical release on site.
• Testing personnel on ability to select the correct EAL given a set of emergency
conditions.
This technique provides an effective means for validating the training that a specific
responder has received or, more generally perhaps, the training program for the specific
response capability.
Exercise Evaluations. Exercise evaluations involve the evaluated observations of an
integrated response to a simulated emergency situation, where multiple organizations or
activities must function together to mitigate the emergency. Exercise objectives ensure
that the opportunity for evaluation exists by focusing on specific activities or functions.
Specific objectives provide the basis for evaluating/validating the performance of
response capabilities. Exercise objectives clearly state what is to be demonstrated; they
are specific, attainable, and measurable. Hence, the response capabilities to be evaluated
are limited in that only one specific scenario is simulated.
There are several variations of the exercise that differ in scope and focus. For a more
detailed discussion of these variations see DOE G 151.1-3, Chapter 3. A brief discussion
of the application of these exercises is included below:
• Tabletop Exercise - Tabletops can be applied to any working group(s) or team(s)
whose successful performance depends on the timely and appropriate interaction of
all of the participating individuals or teams involved an emergency response. The
scope is usually limited to the participants present and the focus is on the decision-
making activities of those interacting. Control cells are used to simulate non-
participants.
Section 104
The EMI SIG has developed “A Guide for Conducting Emergency Response
Tabletop Activities,” March 1998, and is available at http://www.orise.orau.gov/emi.
Additionally, the Office of Independent Oversight and Performance Assurance (HS-
63) issued an “Emergency Management Tabletop Performance Test Inspectors
Guide,” available through the website at www.ssa.doe.gov/Sp40/sp43/docs.html.
DOE G 151.1-3 4-7
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• Facility & Site Exercises - A formal exercise program is established at a DOE/NNSA
site to validate all elements of the emergency management program over a five-year
period. Each exercise should have specific objectives and be fully documented. Each
individual facility exercises its facility-level emergency response capability annually,
including at least a facility-level evaluation and critique. Each facility has an external
Departmental evaluation at least every three years. Site-level Emergency Response
Organization (ERO) elements and resources participate in at least one exercise
annually. This annual site-level exercise is designed to test and demonstrate the site's
integrated emergency response capability. For multiple-facility sites, the basis for the
annual site-level exercise must be rotated among facilities. At least once every three
years offsite response organizations are invited to participate in a site-level full-
participation exercise.
The evaluations of these exercises represent essential contributions to the readiness
estimate for the emergency management program. As a readiness assurance
technique, the evaluation of a well-controlled and designed exercise (especially a full-
participation exercise) most nearly estimates the readiness of the program to
accomplish the goals of emergency response … to mitigate consequences and protect
people and the environment.
• No-Notice Exercises (NNXs). The basic objective of a NNX is to test/assess the
ability of initial responders of the ERO to respond to a simulated OE under no-notice
conditions similar to those encountered during an actual emergency. The duration of
the NNX is normally limited to about 2-3 hours. The absence of scenario-specific
consequence data for use in the exercise is a major factor limiting the duration of
responder activities. NNXs are currently focused on initial activation, mobilization,
and response activities.
The NNX is designed to require minimum resource expenditure and cause only
limited disruption of facility/site or activity operations. In addition to the
participation of initial responders, the site/facility or activity organization assigns a
“trusted agent” to assist in the identification of a credible emergency scenario and to
provide facility/site- or activity-specific information. The Headquarters (HQ)
DOE/NNSA Office of Emergency Management (NA-41) schedules (with facility/site
or activity concurrence), conducts, and documents the NNX and its evaluation,
including the development and coordination of the exercise design package,
providing an exercise director and controllers/evaluators, conducting participant and
formal controller/evaluator critiques, and producing an After Action Report (AAR).
Although the NNX program began as a HQ initiative, the approach can be readily
adapted by a contractor organization as a tool in their self-assessment program.
Section 105
The evaluation program should focus the available evaluation tools discussed above on
the specific issues/problems identified through previous evaluations, tracking
performance indicators, or other preparedness activities such as training and drills. Each
tool has advantages and a scope that is appropriate for specific aspects of the emergency
management program; each also has limitations that should be considered when applying
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each to an issue. Table 4-1 provides some indication of the focus and limitations of these
tools.
According to DOE O 151.1C, DOE/NNSA facilities/sites and activities are expected to
implement an emergency management self-assessment program to identify problem areas
(Cf. Section 4.6). An effective self-assessment can include more that a single annual
program evaluation or exercise evaluation. A broader interpretation includes the usual
internal evaluations together with data collected from various observations, review and
monitoring activities over course of the year. This involves a systematic selection of the
areas and program elements for emphasis. A robust self-assessment program, in addition
to likely becoming the major component of the readiness assurance program in the
future, will assist in ensuring that problems are self-identified and corrected, without
requiring the influence of external evaluators.
Table 4-1. Focus and Limitations of Evaluation Tools
Method Focus Limitation
LSPT Single function or venue
performance
Generally does not involve the full
ERO, so not all functions and
interactions are evaluated; isolated
decision-making.
Tabletops Integrated decision-making Focused on decision-making, not
on resulting performance
Facility & Site Exercises Onsite integrated response Interactions with offsite responders
not observed
Full Participation Exercise Integrated offsite and onsite
response
Response to only one scenario
NNX ERO Lack of consequence data to
expand exercise play
Program Evaluation Comprehensive response planning No performance observed
Self-Assessment Detailed, comprehensive review Limited evaluation by owners of
program
4.3.2 Improvement Program
A strategic objective of an emergency management readiness assurance program should
be continuous improvement. A strong, reliable readiness assurance program will help an
organization ensure that appropriate and timely improvements are made in response to
needs identified and will provide the organization with a direction and a path forward to
achieve an effective and efficient emergency management program. The two key
elements of a readiness assurance improvement program include:
• Corrective Action Program
• Lessons Learned Program
Corrective Action Program. A corrective action program is a readiness assurance process
for continuously improving an emergency management program. This continuous
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improvement results from reliable implementation of corrective actions for findings
(e.g., Deficiencies, Weaknesses) in all types of evaluations, including both internal self-
assessments and external evaluations.
A Corrective Action Plan (CAP) is the formal documented response to findings that have
been identified in program and exercise evaluations or through observations in other
preparedness activities, such as training and drills. The corrective action itself consists of
the means, measures, and methods proposed by the emergency management organization
for addressing and fixing the identified problem area.
Section 106
In preparing/writing a CAP, the conditions, circumstances, situation, and causal factors
that led to the finding should be described. A description of the specific corrective
action(s) that will be taken to remove the cause of the problem and to resolve the finding
must be addressed. The extent and prevalence of the same or similar problem area should
also be indicated in the write up. Completion of corrective actions must include a
verification and validation process, independent of those who performed the corrective
action, that verifies that the corrective action has been put in place and validates that the
corrective action has been effective in resolving the original finding. A general
description of the conduct of an independent corrective action effectiveness review for
verification and validation should be included with the CAP.
Corrective actions that address revision of procedures or training of personnel are
particularly urgent and should be assigned a high priority and completed before the next
evaluation of the program. In contrast, a corrective action may require some time before
it is finally in place. As necessary, non-permanent interim measures should provide
control over a deficient situation or condition to limit the hazard or the possibility of
emergency response failure. Any interim measures or compensatory actions should be
described in the CAP.
The recommended content of a CAP is summarized below:
• Conditions, circumstances, situation, and/or causal factors that led to the finding
• Extent and prevalence of similar or the same/repeat problem area
• Specific corrective action(s) that will be taken to remove the cause of the problem and
to resolve the finding
• Interim measures or compensatory actions taken
• General description of the conduct of an independent corrective action effectiveness
review for verification and validation
These recommendations can be used for self-assessment corrective actions and for
corrective actions where the required content of the formal corrective action is
unspecified. Detailed requirements associated with the management of specific
Departmental corrective actions are contained in DOE O 414.1C, Quality Assurance.
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Each emergency management organization should maintain (at least) an internal system
for ensuring that corrective actions are acknowledged and progress in implementing
corrective actions is tracked. Tracking systems should enable managers to identify
corrective action status (open/closed), to assign responsible staff, to ensure that scheduled
commitments for corrective action are met and that the effectiveness of corrective actions
is validated. Tracking systems may also enable organizations to sort corrective actions
and collect data by category and cause. This can help organizations to more effectively
focus on prevention and improvement. Data concerning corrective actions may also be
monitored in the organization’s site performance measurement program.
Program responsibilities for acting on corrective actions are stated in DOE O 470.2A,
Security and Emergency Management Independent Oversight and Performance
Assurance Program, Attachment 2, Contractor Requirements Document, as follows:
• When notified of a significant vulnerability, responsible contractor organizations
must:
– Promptly identify and implement immediate corrective actions to mitigate the
identified risk or vulnerability.
Section 107
– Develop and implement long-term actions to eliminate the vulnerability or reduce
the level of risk to an acceptable level as soon as possible.
• Contractors must prepare, implement, and track to completion approved preliminary,
interim, and final CAPs that address issues and concerns identified during the
assessments and evaluations.
• CAPs are to be based on analysis of underlying causal factors to determine if
systemic program weaknesses exist.
[A more detailed description of contractor assurance programs, including information
related to issues management and corrective action systems, can be found in
DOE Order 226.1, Implementation of Department of Energy Oversight Policy.]
Lessons Learned Programs. Decision-making, planning, and execution of work should
be founded on the best professional and industrial practices available. DOE/NNSA
management has placed significant emphasis on the concept of lessons learned across
multiple health and safety disciplines, to ensure that knowledge and experience is shared
among individuals and organizations in order to benefit from the experiences of others.
Broad application of the lessons learned concept is important to the Department’s
commitment to maintain effective Integrated Safety Management Systems (ISMS).
Outside the DOE, corporations, government agencies and departments, and the military
are actively using lessons learned information to help them achieve their varied goals and
missions.
The emergency management community is committed to benefiting from the
experiences, good and bad, of our peers, both from within and outside the DOE/NNSA
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complex. A lesson learned may be a “good practice” or innovative approach that is
captured and shared to promote repeat application. A lesson learned may also be an
adverse practice or experience that is captured and shared to avoid recurrence. A lessons
learned program is a principal component of emergency management organizations
whose culture is committed to continuous improvement. As such, an emergency
management lessons learned program should strive to:
• Reduce the number of problems encountered by sharing information.
• Improve program efficiencies and effectiveness by exchanging information and
experience with others in emergency management.
The following are important functions of an effective emergency management lessons
learned program:
1) Identify: Mechanisms should be in place to identify lessons learned
2) Document: A process for documenting lessons and “success stories”
3) Validate: Validate the lessons learned to ensure each is meaningful and not
repetitious
4) Store: A database for capturing and storing lessons learned information
5) Share: Forum for sharing information between organizations, both within the site
organization and within the broader DOE community. The EMI SIG provides such a
forum for the DOE complex. [The DOE Society for Effective Lessons Learned
Sharing (SELLS) also provides complex-wide forum for more generally applicable
lessons learned to be found at: http://hss.energy.gov/CSA/Analysis/ll/sells.]
6) Evaluate: Establish a formal method or process to evaluate the applicability of
lessons learned to the site or its facilities.
7) Incorporate and utilize: Incorporate the actions to address applicable lessons
learned into the site/facility corrective action tracking system. Use lessons learned to
improve the program.
8) Follow-up: Follow-up process is implemented to ensure actions are taken
Section 108
In summary, an effective readiness assurance program includes a system for
incorporating and tracking lessons learned from training, drills, actual responses, and a
site-wide lessons learned program. DOE–STD–7501–99, The DOE Corporate Lessons
Learned Program, provides guidance on use of the system. Additional information on
Lessons Learned programs can be found in the SELLS website within DOE.
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4.3.3 Documentation of Readiness Assurance
ERAPs are documented assessments of the development, implementation, and
maintenance of Emergency Management Programs. The ERAP is also a planning tool to
identify and develop needed resources and improvements. An ERAP highlights
significant changes in emergency management programs (i.e., planning basis,
organizations, and exemptions) and compares actual achievements to goals, milestones
and objectives. The information reported in the ERAP should provide assurances to the
organization’s management as well as DOE/NNSA Headquarters that emergency
management programs are “ready to respond.” The ERAP is designed to be an
emergency preparedness management tool for all levels of management.
While the provisions of the facility/site or activity readiness assurance program are
documented in the emergency plan, the ERAP documents the annual assessment of
readiness assurance activities. The ERAP provides detailed information on an annual
basis about how continuous improvement in the emergency management program is
being achieved and how the complimentary tools of program and exercise evaluations are
being used to ensure that the emergency management program is ready to respond.
Following the direction of the Government Performance Results Act (GPRA –
31 U.S.C. 1115 and 1116), the time period for ERAP coverage was reduced to the
immediate past fiscal year and the new fiscal year in DOE O 151.1C. The ERAP
includes the goals for the immediate past fiscal year and compares those what was
accomplished during the past year, and identifies the goals established for the new fiscal
year. For example, a facility/site ERAP submitted on 9-30-07 would compare the
progress made during FY07 (10-1-06 to 9-30-07) against the goals that had been set for
FY07, as well as identify the goals that were set for FY08 (10-1-07 to 9-30-08).
In addition, the ERAP should contain the results of emergency preparedness activities,
external evaluations/assessments, self-assessment activities, exercise after-action reports,
corresponding corrective action plans, improvements based on the lessons learned
program, and summary information about the facility/site or activity emergency
management program in sufficient detail to be understood by managers that are not in
direct contact with the program. Appendix C contains format and content guidance for
the ERAP. The following general guidance regarding content should also be applied:
• The level of detail should not be voluminous.
• Include information that will help support the improvements needed for the program.
• Details about daily processes are not relevant.
• Ensure that information included is complete and accurate.
• The most detailed information should be from the past year.
DOE O 151.1C contains specific requirements addressing submittal and review and the
general requirements for the ERAP summarized as followed:
DOE G 151.1-3 4-13
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• The facility/site or activity contractor is responsible for preparing the ERAP.
Section 109
• An ERAP may require review for classified or controlled information prior to
submittal.
• It must be submitted to the cognizant Field Element manager for approval.
• The cognizant field element manager should review the ERAP; comments should be
addressed to the contractor representative.
• ERAPs should be consolidated for facilities/sites and activities under the supervision
of the Cognizant Field Element Manager.
• The consolidated ERAP should also contain the same type of discussion regarding the
emergency management program at the Cognizant Field Element level as is contained
in the facility/site or activity ERAP
• The consolidated ERAP should be submitted to the Associate Administrator for
Emergency Operations and the responsible Program Secretarial Officer each year
The Associate Administrator for Emergency Operations will prepare, in coordination
with the responsible Program Secretarial Officers, an annual report summarizing the
status of the DOE Emergency Management System.
4.3.4 Management Commitment
Management leadership, commitment, and active involvement are essential for
emergency management program improvement. Management should be made aware of
the requirements and performance expectations in order to integrate these with the
strategic plans of the organization. Site and facility managers should be kept informed
and involved in the emergency management program.
Management should review the emergency management program at planned intervals to
ensure its continuing suitability, adequacy, and effectiveness. This review should include
assessing opportunities for improvement and the need for changes. Records from
management reviews should be maintained. Input to management reviews should be
provided by personnel responsible for emergency management and should include
information related to:
• Exercise performance
• Results of internal and external evaluations
• Findings involving the emergency management program
• Complaints or significant communications with offsite agencies
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• Status of corrective actions
• Emergency management performance measures and progress in meeting targets
• Changes in regulatory and statutory requirements that may impact resource needs of
the emergency management program
• Changes at the facility/site that may impact preparedness or response
• Recommendations for improvement
• An annual ERAP report
Site and facility management should ensure that necessary interface and cooperation is
maintained between emergency management and the various departments at the
facility/site. The nature of emergency management requires effective ongoing
coordination and cooperative interfaces with organizational groups such as medical,
fire/Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT), training, environmental health and safety, health
physics, engineering, information systems, security, public affairs/media relations, etc.
Line management participation is critical to ensuring that corrective actions are handled
efficiently and effectively and that applicable lessons learned information is effectively
distributed and implemented throughout the organization. Expectations of upper
management must be communicated to line management. Performance measures
established for the emergency management program should be linked with performance
expectations of senior management and their commitment to the program.
Section 110
Sufficient resources must be budgeted to maintain and improve the program. In
considering resource needs to maintain emergency management and meet expectations
for performance improvement, the following should be factored into requests to
management:
• Current resources
• Changes at the facility/site that may impact preparedness or response. These may
include physical, information systems, communication systems, organizational, and
financial changes
• Changes in regulatory or statutory requirements
• Changes in response capabilities of external EROs
• Program effectiveness and achievement of performance goals over the past year
• Lessons learned (facility-specific, DOE/NNSA Complex and industry)
• New performance goals
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• Corrective action commitments
Continued improvement and success of an emergency management program can only be
ensured through management commitment to maintain a response capability that is
“ready” to respond promptly, effectively, and efficiently to emergencies at DOE/NNSA
facilities/sites and activities.
4.4 Evaluations
An emergency management program consists of diverse functions and activities whose
collective objective is to ensure that response capabilities will be ready when needed and
will be applied promptly, effectively, and efficiently. The successful accomplishment of
this objective involves groups of emergency management functions and activities. These
groups are included in the Program Elements of the DOE emergency management
system. The evaluation of emergency management programs will focus on these
elements as a convenient means for organizing the evaluation methodology and processes
to be discussed in this EMG.
The general, overall performance goal (or mission) of DOE/NNSA emergency
management programs can be summarized as follows:
DOE emergency management programs will be ready at all times to promptly,
effectively, and efficiently apply the necessary resources to mitigate consequences
and protect its workers, the public, the environment, and national security in the
event of an Operational Emergency involving DOE/NNSA facilities/sites or
activities.
The goal expresses the basic attributes of a DOE/NNSA emergency management
program that determine its expected performance:
DOE emergency management programs will be ready at all times . . .
• DOE emergency management response is a standby system, which must be ready
(i.e., “ready on demand”) to respond to an emergency event or condition when called
upon.
• Planning, preparedness, and readiness assurance are continuous, ongoing activities
of emergency management programs that enable response capabilities to be ready to
respond . . . in the event of an OE.
. . . to . . . apply the necessary resources . . .
• The emergency management response activities will apply the necessary resources in
the event of an OE.
• The application of necessary resources is the OUTPUT of the response activities of
emergency management programs.
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. . . promptly, effectively, and efficiently . . .
• Resources will be applied promptly, effectively, and efficiently.
– Promptly: Produces the effect or result in a timely manner, when needed
– Effectively: Produces the desired effect or result
– Efficiently: Produces the desired effect or result with a minimum of effort,
resources, or waste; works well
. . . to mitigate consequences and protect its workers, the public, the environment,
and national security . . .
Section 111
• The application of resources (i.e., OUTPUT) of the emergency management
response will mitigate consequences and, in doing so, protect its workers, the public,
the environment, and national security.
• The mitigation of consequences and protection of workers, the public, the
environment, and national security are the ultimate objectives and desired
OUTCOME of the emergency response.
. . . DOE/NNSA facilities/sites or activities.
• This guidance is focused on the response to OEs involving DOE/NNSA
facilities/sites or activities.
The performance goal expresses the performance characteristics of the response
OUTPUT and the desired results of its application, the OUTCOME. Since the ultimate
objective of the emergency management program is to mitigate consequences and
protect, it is the success in accomplishing this OUTCOME that should be evaluated.
However, only an actual emergency event can provide the circumstances and situations
that in reality require urgent measures to protect workers, the public, the environment, or
national security. Only an actual emergency event will produce realistic stress levels,
challenging physical environments, time constraints, real information uncertainties, and
operational problems. Hence, it is only during an actual response that the OUTCOME of
the emergency response can be directly measured and judged and the true readiness of an
emergency management program estimated. However, emergency events, especially
OEs, are rare, and most that have occurred are not sufficiently complex to provide a
comprehensive test of the overall program readiness. Another method is needed for
evaluating emergency management programs and estimating program readiness.
The aspect of the performance goal that can be tested and evaluated on a routine basis is
the capability of the emergency response to be ready at all times to promptly, efficiently,
and effectively apply the necessary resources (i.e., the OUTPUT). Thus, in the absence
of adequate response data from actual emergencies, a basic, practical assumption of the
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methodology for evaluating DOE /NNSA emergency management programs is the
following:
An estimate of the “readiness” of the emergency management response to apply the
necessary resources (the OUTPUT) will be the best available estimate (i.e., a
surrogate) of the “readiness” of the response to mitigate consequences and protect
personnel, the environment, and national security (the OUTCOME).
This basic assumption represents the foundation of readiness assurance evaluation
methodology, which focuses on performance-based evaluations of the OUTPUT of
emergency management programs.
The first evaluation option to consider is an evaluation of performance during an
integrated response to a simulated emergency scenario in an exercise. This direct
observation of performance provides an excellent contribution to an estimate of
readiness, and multiple tests would address a full spectrum of potential emergency
events. However, this option is limited by the substantial resource requirements and its
invasive effect on normal operations. These constraints result in a limited number of site-
level, integrated operations-based exercises, usually one annually (per the DOE O 151.1C
requirement), which is insufficient by itself to ensure that the response will perform as
needed during any emergency.
Section 112
The additional requirement for each facility on a site to conduct a facility-level
operations-based exercise (per the DOE O 151.1C requirement) provides the opportunity
to evaluate the performance of the facility-level Emergency Response Organization
(ERO) components. These direct observations of performance at the facility-level
provide an excellent contribution to an estimate of readiness of the emergency
management program; multiple tests across the site can address a full spectrum of
potential emergency events and response elements. However, essential site-level
response assets may be only simulated during these exercises resulting in a test of
integrated response limited to facility-level assets.
Hence, the limitations of the direct observation method, discussed above, lead to reliance
on a readiness estimate for the system that also depends on assurances (i.e., convincing
arguments to “inspire confidence”) that the response will perform as required. These
assurances are based on a comprehensive evaluation of plans, procedures, supporting
analyses, and the conduct of preparedness activities, COMBINED with evaluations of
performance during formal exercises.
The emergency management system requires this combined approach for evaluating
performance primarily because it is a standby system involving diverse and integrated
functions and skills. Output failures in a continuously operating system of similar
complexity will generally be discovered in real-time. In a standby system, failures will
only be discovered when the system is called upon to operate. As a result, since
demonstrations of response performance are limited, the standby system requires
supporting activities involving planning, testing, and routine maintenance (e.g., training)
to prepare the system to perform successfully on demand. Each activity has an essential
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role in maintaining the readiness of the emergency management program and the
performance of each will reinforce confidence in performance of the overall system.
Hence, a robust readiness assurance program incorporates a focused group of diverse
techniques for evaluating the actual or projected performance of the response and the
continuing performance of its supporting and sustaining activities/functions.
4.4.1 Emergency Management Program Elements
The DOE/NNSA emergency management system consists of four core activities:
• Emergency planning including the identification of hazards and threats, hazard
mitigation, development and preparation of emergency plans and procedures, and
identification of personnel and resources needed for an effective response
• Emergency preparedness including the acquisition and maintenance of resources,
training and drills, and exercises
• Readiness assurance including evaluations, improvements, and documentation to
assure that stated emergency capabilities are sufficient to implement emergency plans
• Emergency response including the application of resources to mitigate consequences
to workers, the public, the environment, and the national security, and the initiation of
recovery from an emergency
In order to more clearly indicate the roles that the fifteen (15) Program Elements of the
emergency management program perform, they are separated into the following three
groups: Technical Planning Basis (Planning), Programmatic Activities (Planning,
Preparedness, Readiness Assurance), and Response Activities.
Section 113
As indicated above, these groups represent the core emergency management activities
and encompass the fifteen (15) Program Elements of the DOE/NNSA emergency
management program:
• TECHNICAL PLANNING BASIS
– Hazards Survey/Hazards Assessment
• PROGRAMMATIC (“ongoing” activities)
– Program Administration
– Training and Drills
– Exercises
– Readiness Assurance
• RESPONSE (“standby” activities)
– Emergency Response Organization (ERO)
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– Offsite Response Interfaces
– Emergency Facilities and Equipment
– Categorization and Classification
– Communication and Notification
– Consequence Assessment
– Protective Actions and Reentry
– Emergency Medical Support
– Emergency Public Information
– Termination and Recovery
The above grouping separates the program elements by role into the technical planning
foundation of the program, the “ongoing” programmatic activities that sustain the
program, and the “standby” response elements that respond or contribute to response as
needed in an emergency.
Fundamental emergency management activities are clearly distinguishable by the time
frame during which they perform. In general, “ongoing” programmatic elements include
activities that take place on a continuous, periodic, or as-needed basis during normal
conditions to maintain the readiness of the program to respond to an emergency. In
contrast, response elements are normally in a standby mode and are activated to respond
to an emergency event or condition. Response elements include the organizational
structure, functions, products, activities, response tools, etc., that directly participate in or
contribute to a response to mitigate consequences of an emergency.
Within each of the program elements, specific activities, tasks, products, etc., and their
related plans, procedures, and tools contribute to the successful accomplishment of the
intended OUTPUT product(s) in each specific area. Examples of individual products can
include: event classification, press briefings, source term estimates, Protective Action
Recommendations (PARs), consequence versus distance calculations, exercise program
for the site, training plans, effectively trained ERO personnel, detection equipment
requirements, meetings with public or offsite response organizations, Emergency
Planning Zone (EPZ), etc.
The intended OUTPUT from each function or activity is evaluated in terms of the desired
qualitative and/or quantitative performance characteristics of each of the products. These
performance characteristics are determined by the role that the OUTPUT plays in
meeting the overall emergency management performance goal. The resulting evaluations
will be referred to as performance-based evaluations, where the focus of the evaluation
methodology is not on specific, prescriptive details of plans, procedures, calculation
techniques, administrative structure, etc., but on the desired performance characteristics
of the resulting OUTPUT.
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The collective performance associated with the program elements supports the overall
performance goal of emergency management programs. In order to provide a logical
structure for evaluating the overall emergency management program, an individual
performance goal has been developed for the OUTPUT of each program element. These
goals were derived from the requirements of DOE O 151.1C, COMPREHENSIVE
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM, augmented with additional guidance from the
EMG (DOE G 151.1-series), other DOE-directives, and other Federal, tribal, state, and
local regulations.
Section 114
Program Element Performance Goals - Technical Planning Basis
1. Hazards Survey. An examination of the features and characteristics of the
facility/site or activity that identifies the generic emergency events and conditions and
the potential impacts of such emergencies to be addressed by the DOE
Comprehensive Emergency Management System. The Hazards Survey identifies key
components of the Operational Emergency Base Program that provide a foundation of
basic emergency management requirements and an integrated framework for response
to serious events involving health and safety, the environment, safeguards, and
security. For facilities/sites and activities involved in producing, processing,
handling, storing, or transporting hazardous materials that have the potential to pose a
serious threat to workers, the public, or the environment, the Hazards Survey provides
a hazards screening process for determining whether further analysis of the hazardous
materials in an Emergency Planning Hazards Assessment (EPHA) is required.
2. Emergency Planning Hazards Assessment (EPHA). Performed for each
facility/site and activity involving at least one candidate hazardous material, as
identified through the hazardous material screening process and indicated in the
Hazards Survey. EPHAs involve the application of rigorous hazards analysis
techniques that provide sufficient detail to assess a broad spectrum of postulated
events or conditions involving the potential onsite release of (or loss of control over)
hazardous materials and to analyze the resulting consequences. Each EPHA reflects
both the magnitude and the diversity of the hazards and the complexity of the
processes and systems associated with the hazards, and provides the technical
planning basis for determining the necessary plans/procedures, personnel, resources,
equipment, and analyses [e.g., determination of an Emergency Planning Zone (EPZ)]
for the Operational Emergency Hazardous Material Program.
Program Element Performance Goals - Programmatic Elements
1. Program Administration. Effective organizational management and administrative
control of the facility/site or activity emergency management program is provided by
establishing and maintaining authorities and necessary resources commensurate with
the responsibility to plan, develop, implement, and maintain a viable, integrated, and
coordinated comprehensive emergency management program.
2. Training and Drills. A comprehensive, coordinated, and documented program of
training and drills is an integral part of the emergency management program to ensure
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that preparedness activities for developing and maintaining program-specific
emergency response capabilities are accomplished.
3. Exercises. All elements of an emergency management program are validated over a
multi-year period through a formal exercise program. The exercise program validates
facility- and site-level emergency management program elements by initiating
response to simulated, realistic emergency events/conditions in a manner that
replicates an integrated emergency response to an actual event as nearly as possible.
Planning and preparation use an effective, structured approach that includes
documentation of specific objectives, scope, time lines, injects, controller
instructions, and evaluation criteria for realistic scenarios. Each exercise is
conducted, controlled, evaluated, and critiqued effectively and reliably. Lessons-
learned are developed, resulting in corrective actions and improvements.
Section 115
4. Readiness Assurance. A Readiness Assurance program provides a framework and
associated mechanisms to assure that emergency plans, implementing procedures, and
resources are adequate and sufficiently maintained, exercised, and evaluated
(including evaluations and assessments) and that appropriate, timely improvements
are made in response to needs identified through coordinated and comprehensive
emergency planning, resource allocation, training and drills, exercises, and
evaluations.
Program Element Performance Goals - Response Elements
1. Emergency Response Organization. An Emergency Response Organization (ERO),
a structured organization with overall responsibility for initial and ongoing
emergency response and mitigation, is established and maintained. The ERO
establishes effective control at the event/incident scene and integrates local agencies
and organizations providing onsite response services. An adequate number of
experienced and trained primary and alternate response personnel are available on
demand for timely and effective performance of ERO functions.
2. Offsite Response Interfaces. Effective interfaces are established and maintained to
ensure that emergency response activities are integrated and coordinated with the
Federal, Tribal, State, and local agencies and organizations responsible for emergency
response and the protection of workers, the public, and the environment.
3. Emergency Facilities and Equipment. Facilities and equipment adequate to support
emergency response are available, operable, and maintained. Specifically, an
adequate and viable command center is available as necessary and personnel
protective equipment is available and operable to meet the needs of the responders.
4. Categorization and Classification. Major unplanned or non-routine events or
conditions involving or affecting DOE or NNSA facilities/sites or activities by
causing or having the potential to cause serious health and safety impacts onsite or
offsite to workers or the public, serious detrimental effects on the environment, direct
harm to people or the environment as a result of degradation of security or safeguards
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conditions, or release of (or loss of control over) hazardous materials, are recognized
promptly, categorized, and declared as OEs. In addition to being categorized as OEs,
events involving the actual or potential airborne release of (or loss of control over)
hazardous materials from a facility/site or activity also require prompt and accurate
classification based on health effect thresholds (for initiating protective actions)
measured or estimated at specific receptor locations (i.e., facility and site boundaries,
etc.) Predetermined conservative onsite protective actions and offsite protective
action recommendations are associated with the classification of these OEs.
5. Notifications and Communication. Prompt, accurate, and effective initial
emergency notifications are made to workers and emergency response
personnel/organizations, including appropriate DOE or NNSA elements, and other
Federal, Tribal, State, and local organizations and authorities. Accurate and timely
follow-up notifications are made when conditions change or when the classification is
upgraded or the emergency is terminated. Continuous, effective, and accurate
communications among response components and/or organizations are reliably
maintained throughout an OE.
Section 116
6. Consequence Assessment. Estimates of onsite and offsite consequences of actual or
potential releases of hazardous materials are correctly computed and assessed in a
timely manner throughout the emergency. Consequence assessments are integrated
with event classification and protective action decision-making, incorporate facility
and field indications and measurements, and are coordinated with offsite agencies.
7. Protective Actions and Reentry. Protective actions are promptly and effectively
implemented or recommended for implementation, as needed, to minimize the
consequences of emergencies and to protect the health and safety of workers and the
public. Protective actions that can be implemented individually, or in combination, to
reduce exposures from a wide range of hazardous material types, include evacuation,
sheltering, decontamination of people, medical care, ad hoc respiratory protection,
control of access, shielding, radio protective prophylaxis (e.g. administration of stable
iodine, chelating agents, or diuretics), control of foodstuffs and water, relocation,
decontamination of land and equipment, and changes in livestock and agricultural
practices. Protective actions are reassessed throughout an emergency and modified as
conditions change. Reentry activities are planned, coordinated, and accomplished
properly and safely.
8. Emergency Medical Support. Medical support is provided for workers
contaminated by hazardous materials. Arrangements with offsite medical facilities to
transport, accept, and treat contaminated, injured personnel are documented.
9. Emergency Public Information (EPI). Accurate, candid, and timely information
must be provided to workers, the news media, and the public during an emergency to
establish facts and avoid speculation. Emergency public information efforts must be
coordinated with State, Tribal, and local governments, and be part of Federal
emergency response plans as appropriate. Workers and the public are informed of
emergency plans and planned protective actions before emergencies.
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10. Termination and Recovery. An OE is terminated only after a predetermined set of
criteria has been met and termination has been coordinated with offsite agencies.
Recovery from a terminated OE involves communication and coordination with
Tribal, State, local, and other Federal agencies; planning, management, and
organization of the associated recovery activities; and ensuring the health and safety
of workers and the public.
The performance goals are deliberately general and broadly based in order to apply to all
Operational Emergency Hazardous Material Programs across the DOE complex. The
performance described implies no facility/site- or activity-specific characteristics, such as
diversity and number of hazards, size of site, number of facilities, ERO composition, etc.
Each goal characterizes the performance of a group of emergency management functions/
activities that support the functional area indicated by the program element title. The
collective performance described in the goal does not imply that the individual functions
or activities associated with the program element are necessarily dependent on one
another so that a single failure or several failures in the functional area fail the whole
element.
4.4.2 Program and Exercise Evaluations
Two methods are recommended for obtaining complementary estimates of the readiness
of an emergency management program to respond, namely, program and exercise
evaluations:
Section 117
• A program evaluation involves an assessment of an emergency management
program based on a comprehensive examination and evaluation of response plans and
procedures, administrative control mechanisms, planning basis and supporting
analyses, response tools (e.g., computer models), resource availability, training
activities and results, training validation (i.e., individual testing of trained personnel),
overall exercise program, organizational factors, etc.
• An exercise evaluation involves an assessment of an emergency management
program based on the observation and evaluation of the demonstrated integrated
performance of response capabilities during simulated emergency event(s) or
condition(s). The exercise evaluation is usually combined with an evaluation of the
validity of the specific exercise (i.e., Conduct of Exercise) as a viable test of the
readiness of the program to respond.
The technical planning basis and programmatic activities are generally evaluated during
a program evaluation. The evaluation focuses on observables associated with the
INPUT to the activity, the characteristics and conduct of the ACTIVITY itself, and the
OUTPUT of the activity. Response activities are also evaluated during program
evaluations. However, since there is no observation of response to an emergency event
(as in exercises), the evaluation must depend on expert extrapolation from the response
planning, procedures, and available tools to an anticipated or projected response. The
evaluation consists of a judgment of the anticipated or projected performance based
solely on review and analyses of the planning and preparedness activities.
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Evaluation of response activities during a drill or exercise involves an assessment of the
demonstrated performance of integrated response capabilities, based on observation and
evaluation of the actual OUTPUT from each program element. Exercise evaluation will
determine whether and how well response functions and activities are performed based
on observations during a specific (simulated) emergency scenario. [Note that some
programmatic activities are evaluated during an exercise to determine the reliability of
the planning and conduct of the exercise. This assessment (i.e., Conduct of Exercise)
provides an indication of the value of the observed performance during a specific
exercise in estimating the expected response during an actual emergency.]
ERO personnel perform response functions and participate in activities during an
exercise; actual failures in performance can be observed. Similarly, during an assessment
of a programmatic element (e.g., Training and Drills) in a program evaluation,
inadequate or ineffective training of response personnel might be discovered through a
record search or individual testing. This will also be an actual failure, where
accomplishments of the training program do not meet emergency management program
expectations. In contrast, during a program evaluation of a response element, the plans,
procedures, and tools for a specific activity are evaluated to determine whether they are
accurate, clear, unambiguous, effective, timely, etc. If they were found to meet
expectations by an evaluator, then, based on the materials evaluated or interviews with
the ERO personnel, the desired OUTPUT of the activity during a response would be
satisfactory. In other words, no projected failure would be suggested by the program
evaluation. On the other hand, if the procedures were incorrectly written or the expected
OUTPUT not appropriate, then a failure might be projected (considered likely) during an
emergency response.
Section 118
It is common practice during program evaluations to construct LSPTs to be administered
to ERO staff in order to validate their proficiency in performing certain response tasks
(e.g., classification, protective action decision-making) for which they would be
responsible during an emergency response. These tests validate the effectiveness of the
training received and are essential for evaluating the performance of the Training and
Drills, a programmatic element. However, they should be interpreted as one indicator of
projected performance, but not as sufficient to characterize expected performance as is a
well-planned and conducted, quality exercise or during an actual response to an
emergency.
As stated in the beginning of this section, two methods are recommended for obtaining
complementary estimates of the readiness of the response capabilities of an emergency
management program, namely, program and exercise evaluations. Neither type of
evaluation is sufficient by itself to provide a complete measure of the readiness of the
emergency management program. Program evaluation is comprehensive in terms of
hazards and activities. It provides a measure of the applicability of the planning
associated with the program, as well as an evaluation of the adequacy of programmatic
activities that ensure the maintainability of the program in sustaining a high level of
proficiency over time. Program evaluation, however, lacks a true evaluation of actual,
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integrated performance of response capabilities as observed in a real or simulated
emergency event.
Exercise evaluation, on the other hand, provides such an evaluation of response
performance during a simulated emergency scenario. However, since the scenario
involves only selected response capabilities and personnel appropriate to the emergency
event, the evaluation of the exercise is insufficient to generalize the overall capabilities of
the response. The exercise is a snapshot in time that captures and evaluates performance
in response to the specific event. Each scenario demands a unique, detailed response
from emergency management functions and activities (e.g., the specific EAL; the
associated protective actions; the consequence assessment calculations; the procedures
used; the medical situation encountered; the specific content of news releases). Although
the processes for some general response functions/activities are accomplished similarly
for each type emergency (though the detailed results are unique), the exercise evaluation
does not provide a comprehensive, overall assessment of the adequacy of the emergency
management program in responding to a spectrum of emergency events or in maintaining
the readiness of the program over time.
Finally, the readiness of an emergency management program is best estimated by an
assessment of the combination of complementary results from program and exercise
evaluations and, when available, post-emergency evaluations. However, in order to
perform these evaluations, performance-based criteria must be developed to provide a
means for consistently judging the critical aspects of emergency management program
element performance. In the next section, performance-based criteria for evaluating
emergency management program elements are introduced.
4.4.3 Evaluation Criteria
Section 119
Generic performance-based criteria have been developed to support the evaluation of
specific emergency management performance goals (Cf. Section 4.4.1) for each program
element of an Operational Emergency Hazardous Material Program. The criteria are
based generally on the requirements of DOE O 151.1C, augmented with guidance from
the DOE G 151.1-series, and other Federal, State, and general local requirements
applicable to DOE emergency management programs. Consistent with the performance
goals, the criteria are also intentionally generic and broad-based to accommodate the
diversity of hazards and response capabilities associated with facilities/sites and activities
within the DOE/NNSA complex, and to provide a consistent framework for judging
emergency management performance complex-wide.
Fifteen sets of criteria, grouped by program element, are given in Appendix D of
DOE G 151.1-3. Each criterion is labeled to differentiate among those assessed during to
program (P) evaluations, exercise (E) evaluations, or both (P/E). If program and exercise
evaluations are to be treated as complementary estimates of program readiness, it follows
that response elements must be judged using the same performance goal and
performance-based criteria (P/E).
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In several response program elements, there are number of instances where selected
ongoing or programmatic activities are included that maintain the response aspects of the
specific program element. For example, the activity that ensures that ERO rosters are
kept current with trained and qualified responders is a routine function that maintains the
readiness of the responder organization. A routine test and maintenance program for
emergency facilities and equipment maintains the readiness associated with the
Emergency Facilities and Equipment. These types of activities should be considered part
of a comprehensive evaluation of programmatic activities during a program evaluation.
Criteria applicable to these programmatic functions (P) are indicated as such in
Appendix D.
Exercise evaluators should not use the criteria contained in Appendix D as given.
Program-specific expectations and characteristics should be developed for each
emergency management program, based on facility/site- or activity-specific hazards and
associated program capabilities (e.g., derived from existing plans and procedures). From
these attributes, generic criteria can be restated in the context of the specific program.
This facilitates the evaluator’s task by bounding the general intent and scope of the
function or activity, as expressed in the generic criteria, and focusing on the key program-
specific attributes incorporated in the revised criteria. In contrast, during a program
evaluation, the generic criteria for programmatic and response elements are used as the
standard against which the plans/procedures and preparedness activities are judged in the
context of the facility/site- or activity-specific hazards, associated program capabilities,
and “commensurate with hazards” concept. As a result, the program-specific criteria for
a program element that reflect the hazards, plans, size of the ERO, and other
characteristics, may be a subset of the generic criteria given in Appendix D.
4.4.4 Findings
Section 120
Program and exercise evaluations consist of numerous individual judgments related to the
adequacy of projected or demonstrated performance in specific emergency management
functional areas. These judgments are expressed in terms of meeting or failing to meet
expectations expressed by a specific evaluation criterion. The necessary information for
making such judgments is obtained from numerous data sources, including: document
and record reviews, direct observations, personnel interviews, selected testing of
personnel performance, and critiques.
Inadequate or failed actual or projected performance identified during an evaluation is
referred to as a finding. A finding describes a failure related to a criterion. Findings are
ranked as either a Weakness or Deficiency to reflect the significance of the failed
criterion in adversely impacting actual or projected performance (i.e., OUTPUT) of the
program element. A Deficiency has a more significant impact on the program element
OUTPUT than a Weakness. The Deficiency also indicates a greater urgency associated
with implementing the appropriate corrective action and fixing the problem than
associated with a Weakness.
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For either a program or exercise evaluation, a Deficiency is defined as follows:
A Deficiency is an actual or projected failure to meet an evaluation criterion, thereby
directly impacting the associated basic emergency management activity, such as
planning, preparedness, readiness assurance, or response.
A direct impact on an emergency management activity resulting from a failure to meet a
single evaluation criterion will, by itself, adversely affect the associated performance-
based OUTPUT of the program element. The adverse effect of the failure should be
significant and readily apparent. For example, in Consequence Assessment (a response
element), failure to conduct a Timely Initial Assessment (TIA) of the consequences of an
emergency has a direct impact on the response activity, since consequence assessment
results serve as a basis for the initial timely decision-making following pre-planned
(default) conservative decisions. Failure of the Hazards Survey/EPHA to analyze
potential emergency events or conditions representing a spectrum of severity has a direct
impact on the planning activity, because the Hazards Survey/EPHA serves as the
comprehensive planning basis for the emergency management program.
For either a program or exercise evaluation, a Weakness is defined as:
A Weakness is an actual or projected failure to meet an evaluation criterion, thereby
contributing to a direct impact or indirectly impacting the associated basic
emergency management activity, such as planning, preparedness, readiness
assurance, or response.
A failure that contributes to a direct impact on or indirectly impacts an emergency
management activity results from a failure to meet a single evaluation criterion that
adversely affects a supporting or auxiliary role in the accomplishment of the emergency
management activity. For example, failure to maintain a controlled document system as
part of Program Administration (a programmatic element) contributes to a direct impact
on the planning activity, because the latest procedures or hazards information might not
be available during a response. Failure to plan for extended operations of the ERO (a
response element) has an indirect impact on the response activity, since members of the
ERO need respite from their assigned activities; fresh personnel are more likely to make
better decisions than tired personnel.
Section 121
When determining direct, contributing to direct, or indirect impacts on emergency
management activities, the following should be considered. The impact in a specific
functional area is on the OUTPUT of the activity. The impact cannot be judged on the
actual or projected OUTCOME of the emergency management programs response, since
there are no measures to realistically judge the OUTCOME during either a program or
exercise evaluation. A direct impact cannot be judged on an unsupported evaluator’s
prediction of an adverse direct impact. A finding that represents an indirect impact based
on its intended function cannot become a direct impact simply because the evaluator can
conceive of a scenario that explains how the failure could ultimately combine with other
failures to produce a direct adverse impact. Such extrapolations simply cannot be
supported by evidence gathered during the evaluations.
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Finally, the recommended approach [Cf. DOE G 151.1-3, Chapter 3] for developing
exercises that test emergency response capabilities identifies a specific set of exercise
objectives to be achieved. The finding definitions should be used only to address failure
of a specific evaluation criterion. However, although some exercise objectives may
correspond to just one evaluation criterion, a more likely situation would have multiple
criteria associated with an exercise objective. In that case, the definitions of Deficiency
and Weakness should NOT be applied to the failure of the exercise objective, but to each
of the evaluation criteria. When multiple evaluation criteria are reflected in an exercise
objective, then the failure of the objective should be judged by the combined (“rolled-
up”) assessment of the total results for the objective, namely, those criteria that were
achieved versus those that were not.
Finally, findings will be directly associated with a specific emergency management
program element and hence will point to problems specific to the element through the
characterization of the evaluation criterion. However, to identify problems that are
systemic across elements, it is useful to determine the general characteristics of the
failure. In the following section, the format for labeling or binning findings is presented
in terms of generic faults. Such a system can facilitate analyses of a collection(s) of
findings by emphasizing the generic (observed) fault that may have caused the failure of
diverse criteria across program elements.
4.4.5 Generic Faults
In this section, a technique is presented for analyzing findings across program elements or
from multiple evaluations. The technique is most appropriate for large numbers of
findings. Large sites with multiple facilities or HQ offices with responsibilities over
multiple sites and facilities could potentially benefit most from the resulting analyses.
Smaller sites with limited numbers of facilities and findings can usually analyze failures
by a simple review (i.e., reviewing/analyzing each individual finding and then
generalizing about cross-cutting faults.).
To assist in revealing systemic (i.e., cross-cutting) problems common to multiple
elements of a specific program or even DOE complex-wide, findings from program and
exercise evaluations can be grouped using a generic fault system. These generic faults
characterize identified failures that represent actual or projected failure to meet criteria.
In order to facilitate analyses, generic faults have been developed to further clarify and
refine the characterization of specific failures that reflects as nearly as possible the bases
for the findings. The method provides the means for a structured and comprehensive
examination of findings both within sites and DOE-wide.
Section 122
Findings associated with diverse functional areas identified during an evaluation can be
further characterized by using specific generic faults. For example, confusing or
inadequate emergency plans/procedures identified in several response program elements
during a program evaluation might be represented by a generic fault associated with the
adequacy of plans and procedures. Evaluation of findings for this specific emergency
management program may indicate the need for a re-look at how plans and procedures
are written. Similarly, if communication failures occur in various response elements
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during an exercise evaluation, then the assigned generic fault might be related to general
communication and information flow. In this case, an analysis of multiple findings might
reveal a general weakness in the communication skills of the ERO members or in the
protocols used.
The following are candidate Generic Faults for use in characterizing findings from
evaluations:
1. Implementation: Failures related to the translation of DOE requirements, policy or
guidance into specific plans, procedures and preparations for conducting effective
emergency management activities planning, preparedness, readiness assurance, and
emergency response. Site plans and procedures do not make provision for meeting
specific Order requirements. Site procedures, documents, and preparations do not
exist for the effective accomplishment of emergency actions as described in the site
Emergency Plan.
2. Performance: Failures related to the actions of staff in carrying out preparedness or
response actions. Personnel fail to carry out an approved response procedure. Failure
to accomplish planning/preparedness activities necessary to support effective
response, if the inadequacy is due to personnel performance and not to some other
cause, such as inadequate procedures or resources.
3. Roles/Responsibilities: Failure of an assigned individual to assume a specific role;
an unclear, missing or conflicting formal designations of responsibility for carrying
out emergency management functions; or, the exercise of specific capacities or
functions by assigned personnel in an emergency response.
4. Interfaces/Coordination: Failures in links or connections that are established
between different organizations to support emergency planning and preparedness:
inadequate cooperative/joint planning or lack of agreement on how to respond to
certain circumstances. Failures might involve incompatible terminology,
uncoordinated response actions, disputed authorities, or ineffective division of roles
and responsibilities.
5. Decision Making: Failures related to the exercise of management-level decision-
making authority for the response process as a whole, or any part of it. Failure to
make sound decisions based on available information, and to any procedures,
processes, or criteria that would lead to unsound decisions regarding important
response actions.
6. Control: Failures related to management-level direction of response actions and
allocation of resources, continuity and effective use of authority and responsibility.
7. Communication: Failures in the act of transfer of information between response
facilities, personnel, and organizations as part of emergency response; failures or
inadequacies in the communication of facts, status, decisions, directions or actions.
Not including communication equipment failures.
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Section 123
8. Plans and Procedures: Failures related to plans and procedures, in hard copy or
electronic form, which provide direction to planning, preparedness and response
activities. The plans or procedures do exist, but are found to have factual or editorial
errors that would degrade the effectiveness of response, are not internally consistent,
or are not current.
9. Documentation: Failures related to reports, agreements, and other documents,
excluding Plans/Procedures and Records, in hard copy or electronic form, which
provide technical planning basis and support/direction to planning, preparedness and
response activities. EPHAs, training materials, lesson plans, and training manuals;
understandings and agreements; protocols (e.g., communication, medical, control); or
other emergency management documents are found to have factual or editorial errors
that would degrade their effectiveness, be internally inconsistent, or not maintained
current.
10. Records: Failures related to logs, event chronologies and data sheets generated
during emergency response or exercises; medical records; equipment and facility test
and maintenance records, staff training and qualification records; or documentation of
meetings, planning decisions, or any other past events/ occurrences that form part of
the planning basis, in hard copy or electronic form. Factual errors degrade the
effectiveness of the recorded data, the recorded information is internally inconsistent,
or the record is not maintained current during the time frame/activity required.
11. Personnel: Failures related to the number, qualifications, or capabilities of staff
performing planning, preparedness, readiness assurance, and response functions.
Failures reflect lack of qualified staff to effectively carry out a function, or the
assignment of personnel with inappropriate skills, training, or qualifications for the
job.
12. Equipment: Failures related to the physical and other assets available to support the
emergency management function: deficiencies or failures in dedicated response
equipment, such as radios, radiation survey instruments, computers, protective
equipment, or facilities from which to conduct emergency response activities.
13. Backup (Alternate): Failures related to the secondary or backup facilities,
equipment, staff, or other resources/capabilities for response: lack of or inadequate
backup for any key person, facility or resource; failure to adequately train backup
personnel or to maintain the alternate response facilities in a usable state.
These generic faults should be clearly distinguished from root causes. The root cause is
the basic reason for the criterion failure for which no underlying cause could be
identified. The root causes generally reflect inadequate performance of programmatic
activities, such as training or program administration, which maintain the program. In
contrast, the generic fault is the further characterization of the observed failure; there will
likely be a root cause for identified generic faults.
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As a practical limit, the evaluator can assign up to three faults to each finding, as
necessary. The assignment of multiple faults can represent situations, such as:
• Ambiguity or uncertainty in characterizing the failure
• Multiple generic faults are identified
• Primary and secondary (and maybe tertiary) generic fault(s) are identified
Section 124
The selection of the appropriate fault(s) should not represent a major task. If the finding
description or summary is written clearly and contains complete information for
interpreting and characterizing the situation, selected faults(s) should be readily apparent
and referred to within the finding description itself. For example, documents to be used
for response are found to be old versions. The evaluator must distinguish between
Implementation (#1) and Performance (#2). If an adequate document control system
exists, and it is not followed, then Performance applies. On the other hand, if no system
is in place, then Implementation is appropriate. The finding descriptions must certainly
contain sufficient information to distinguish between the two possibilities, since different
corrective actions may be required.
4.4.6 Program Readiness
An emergency management program consists of diverse activities, functions, and tools
that operate either in a periodic, ongoing mode to ensure the readiness of the program to
respond (through planning, preparedness, readiness assurance) or in a standby mode to
respond to an emergency when called upon. A comprehensive estimate of overall
program readiness to respond to an emergency cannot be obtained from a simple (linear)
combination of evaluation results related to the individual program elements
(e.g., average of all program element performance estimates). A true determination of
the readiness of the overall emergency management program must account for the
relationships between the technical planning basis, programmatic and response elements
and on the relative contribution of each type to the estimate. Only by combining
applicable programmatic element evaluations with response element evaluations can an
estimate be obtained from program evaluations complementary to observed
performance during an exercise. It is the method for combining/integrating
programmatic and response element evaluation results that will determine the structure
and methodology for obtaining overall readiness estimates.
Finally, until a practical framework for integrating the results within and between each
type of evaluation is developed, program and exercise evaluations will necessarily
represent standalone estimates of program readiness, each with its own attributes and
limitations.
4.5 Evaluation Process
Evaluations of DOE/NNSA emergency management programs can be characterized by
the organization that sponsors the evaluation and the relationship of the evaluators to the
development and maintenance of the program. Evaluators who are neither responsible
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for the development or maintenance of the program nor associated with the managing
organization conduct an external evaluation. An internal evaluation or self-assessment is
an evaluation sponsored by an organization to review and evaluate its own emergency
program.
The process of evaluating emergency management in a program evaluation, either
external evaluation or self-assessment, can involve examination, analysis, and evaluation
in the following areas:
• Plans and procedures
• Administrative control mechanisms
• Planning basis and supporting analyses
• Response tools, such as computer models, monitoring equipment, communication
systems
• Resources and resource availability
• Organizations and organizational interfaces
• Training and training validation
• Exercise program
Section 125
Data sources include plans and procedures, other documents [e.g., EPHAs; Memoranda
of Understanding (MOUs)], databases and records, limited scope tests/drills, and
interviews. The more thoroughly these data sources are examined and analyzed, the
more comprehensive is the evaluation.
An exercise evaluation, on the other hand, involves observation, analysis and evaluation
of the demonstrated performance of integrated response capabilities during a simulated
emergency event. Observations of activities included involve the ERO staff, utilization
of facilities, equipment, and procedures. The scope of the evaluation, including the
selection of the emergency management program elements to be observed, is determined
by specific objectives developed for the particular exercise. Exercise evaluation also
addresses the overall conduct and control of the exercise. This evaluation is based on
exercise documentation, including the scenario and objectives, and the actual conduct of
the exercise. Also included in the evaluation are the conduct of ancillary activities, such
as controller and evaluator training, responder training, and the exercise critique. The
validity of the exercise as a viable test of readiness should be a conclusion of this
evaluation.
The process for conducting internal and external evaluations can differ substantially in
areas such as scheduling, preparation, and interactions with the evaluated organization
both during and after the evaluation. Since the process used for both types of evaluations
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will be determined by the evaluating organizations, this guide does not address details
related to organization-specific logistics and coordination issues. However, some
common features of evaluations are discussed in the following sections, namely, data/
information sources and the expected output from evaluations.
4.5.1 Data Sources
Successful evaluations depend on the availability of diverse sources of information.
Choosing the appropriate sources will vary depending on whether the team is conducting
a program or exercise evaluation. These sources can include document and records
reviews, interviews, and observation of performance. [Some data sources for exercise
evaluations (e.g., “hot wash,” post-exercise critiques) are discussed in Chapter 3.]
1. Document Reviews. Document reviews for program evaluations include: analyses
such as Hazards Surveys, EPHAs, Safety Analysis Reports (SARs)/Safety
Assessment Documents(SADs)/Documented Safety Analyses (DSAs), and
Environmental Impact Statements (EISs); plans such as emergency plans, building
plans, spill prevention plans, Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA)
plans, and training plans; procedures such as administrative procedures for
emergency management and Emergency Plan Implementing Procedures (EPIPs); and
agreements, such as MOU and Memoranda of Agreement (MOA); and contracts.
Additionally, evaluators should be knowledgeable of organizational structure,
functional responsibilities, and previous evaluations.
An exercise evaluation requires a more limited facility/site or activity document
review to provide the team with sufficient familiarity with the facility/site layout,
activities, emergency management program plans and procedures, response
capabilities, and hazards. A more extensive review effort is involved in an evaluation
of the planning documentation associated with the exercise. The exercise package
should contain sufficient information for the conduct, control, and evaluation of the
exercise, including: exercise objectives, scope, participants, simulations, time lines,
injects, technical data, safety/security provisions, controller instructions, and
evaluation criteria.
Section 126
2. Records Reviews. Records reviews during program evaluations could include the
following:
• Training records
• Drill and exercise reports
• Hazardous materials inventories
• Corrective action tracking
• Facility and equipment inventories
• Systems tests such as notification, alerting, monitoring and communications tests
• Incident and event reports
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Data and records review following exercise evaluations can also provide
supplementary supporting information necessary to address exercise findings, so that
an implicit recommendation can be included in the write-up.
3. Interviews. Interviews during program evaluations should be conducted after the
initial document review, when the program functions have been identified.
Interviewees should include the managers of the emergency management staff, the
emergency management staff itself, the ERO (including back shift personnel), support
organizations such as training, industrial hygiene, health physics, operations and
maintenance, and offsite interface organization representatives.
Evaluators should conduct interviews with a variety of individuals with different
backgrounds and at different levels in the organization. Team members should talk to
operators, mechanics, and all levels of supervision as necessary to get a thorough
picture.
Interviews can elicit meaningful information concerning:
• Personnel qualifications, training and drill participation
• Familiarity with procedures and equipment
• ERO activation
• Problems encountered during response
• Adequacy of procedures and resources
Careful planning and conduct of the following steps in advance of each interview will
enhance their effectiveness:
• Delineate the topics to be discussed
• Identify the types of questions to be asked
• Determine what reference materials should be available for the interview
• Identify the best location to hold the interview; if possible, perform the interview
in the interviewee's workplace so that the resources needed will be readily
available
• Anticipate the interviewees’ perspective, possible concerns, and expectations
• Know the procedures and hazards that the interviewee should know and
understand
• Determine how to establish a climate of trust and collaboration and, hence, how to
avoid an adversarial encounter
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• Facilitate the interview process to ensure that information needed is obtained and
that the dialogue continues after the interview, as required
• Plan to follow through if information is promised for a later time
• Thank people for their time
The following techniques may facilitate the interview process:
• Setup the interview by introducing yourself, stating the purpose and context of the
interview, outlining the topics to be covered, assuring confidentiality and
establishing your credibility
• Ask open questions - why, when, how, who, where, and what
• Ask hypothetical questions
• Observe and listen closely to the person being interviewed
• Show interest and respect and don’t be critical
• Restate the question and answer to ensure understanding;
• Inform interviewees that notes will be taken of topics discussed
• Verify and evaluate all information by requesting demonstrations of procedures or
equipment, soliciting identical information from more that one person, and
checking records to verify claims
Section 127
• Include task performance testing of interviewees’ ERO position with hypothetical
scenarios; validate hypothetical scenarios with knowledgeable trusted agent and
request confidentiality of subject matter until evaluation is complete
• Separate levels of supervision when interviewing; do not have the interviewee’s
supervisor present during the interview
• Do not make recommendations initially; determine the facts first to ensure a clear
understanding of the problem
• Ask for copies of documents shown or referenced by the interviewee
• Do not respond positively or negatively to answers given, through either
comments or facial expressions; instead use clues to develop further questions
• Hold your opinion during the course of the interview and avoid arguing
For exercise evaluations, interviews are limited to before or after the exercise, for
logistic information or follow-up questions. During exercises, team members should
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refrain from interfacing with responders, since interrupting or prompting the
responders can prevent their decisions or actions. Prior to exercises, team members
may interview personnel to gain further knowledge and/or clarification of responder
duties, procedures, and equipment capabilities. After the exercise, responders may
need to be interviewed by evaluators to clarify their response activities and observed
performance.
4. Observations. When possible, observations should be made during both program
and exercise evaluations. Program evaluations may include observations during the
following:
• Individual skill/knowledge tests
• Training sessions
• Facility walk-downs
• Scheduled drills
Exercise evaluations may include observations of the following:
• Responder briefings
• Controller, evaluator, and/or specialized training
• Application of response capabilities
• Control of the exercise
• Exercise hot-wash
• Exercise critiques
To maximize the effectiveness of data collection from observation of performance
during an exercise, utilize the following practices:
• Review the applicable procedures to guide observations of the planned
performance required of the personnel.
• Before the action begins, find a location where key actions and communications
can be seen and heard.
• Record the time of each observation.
• Observe whether exercise players have been pre-positioned.
• Note any impediments encountered by the players while they are accomplishing
their tasks.
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• Note significant deviations from the exercise time line.
• Note controller/evaluator effectiveness.
• Observe and take note of key response activities, including: ERO notification and
mobilization; procedure usage; facility and equipment availability and usage;
instrument calibrations; communications; decision-making; notifications; record
keeping; staffing of functions; support requests; briefings; and key scenario times
Additional opportunities for observation may include:
• Observations of backshift operations to ascertain staffing and resource
availability, training and responsibilities of backshift personnel, and general
capabilities when management is not generally available.
• Facility walk-downs to ascertain emergency response facility characteristics
(communications equipment, power supplies, workspace, references, computer
systems, ingress-egress and habitability monitoring, etc. Walk-downs of hazard
facilities are also useful to review and validate information on inventory, storage,
barriers in relation to EPHAs and EAL procedures.
Section 128
• Demonstration drills may be requested in advance by evaluators to observe team
performance and validate what actions are depicted in emergency response
procedures.
• Scheduled training may be observed to review the actual content of training and
instructor capability.
• Equipment demonstrations can provide evaluators observations of equipment
storage, security, availability, operability, maintenance/ calibration, operational
procedures, personnel knowledge and skills. Equipment observations may
include: field monitoring equipment readiness and use, communications systems,
hazardous release plume modeling and tracking systems, notification systems,
meteorological equipment, decontamination equipment, medical emergency
response equipment.
5. Data Selection Techniques. A common problem associated with evaluations is the
normally limited time available for collecting, reviewing, and evaluating information.
A number of data selection techniques can be employed to perform a reasonably
comprehensive evaluation within the available time constraint. These selection
techniques include: sampling and horizontal-to-vertical review.
• Sampling. The technique of data sampling is essential to maximizing the
evaluation effectiveness within the time constraints and available resources.
During a program evaluation, team members cannot examine all activities,
operations, processes, documents, and records for assigned functional areas. A
selected number of activities, processes, or operations should be chosen to
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represent the whole. The selected examples should be chosen at random to avoid
concentration on a particular group or time. Since accuracy increases with sample
size, multiple examples for sampling should be examined, keeping within the time
allotted, resources, and reasonableness. Random sampling may be used in any of
the information collection activities mentioned earlier, for example:
– Training records
– Procedures for review
– ERO members to interview
– Weekly communications checks
– Exercise scenarios to review
– Equipment maintenance records
• Horizontal-to-Vertical Review. The horizontal-to-vertical information review
methodology provides a means for investigating a specific emergency
management component or element in a logical and efficient manner, without
delving into details unnecessarily.
The technique applies primarily to program evaluations and involves a step-by-
step general review of materials related to an area or activity to be evaluated. It
may begin with a general top-level review of an emergency management element.
If a potential problem is discovered during the general review (horizontal), then
the evaluator can refocus the review effort on the supporting details (vertical) in
an attempt to arrive at the underlying problem. The technique is a way to cover
major aspects of a program, and, on a selected basis, examine supporting details
to uncover potential problems or to verify the status of an activity.
6. Field Notes. Field notes are a critical component of the evaluation process that
provides the mechanism for documenting an observation or issue as soon as possible
after it is made or identified. Documentation should contain sufficient detail to
support later development of findings and verification of issues or concerns. These
field observations should be recorded in an informal notebook.
Section 129
Names and titles of DOE and contractor personnel interviewed, with times, dates and
topics discussed should be included in the notes, as well as the observations made
during a walk-down. Team member entries should organize information collected,
formulate tentative findings, and reveal the nature of missing information needed to
resolve outstanding issues. These serve as an excellent source of thoughts in the
preparation of the draft report. Under normal conditions, field notes should not be
released to facility personnel being evaluated. These notes are for the use of team
members only, unless otherwise stipulated by the team leader. Additionally, during
exercises, evaluators should keep a time line record, drill and exercise observations,
and critique information.
7. Limited Scope Tests and Evaluations. LSPTs and tabletop drills are scenario-based
discussions between evaluators and interviewees that can be an effective method of
observing performance when there is no opportunity to observe a drill or exercise. A
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pre-developed scenario is used as the basis for discussion of the interviewee’s role,
responsibilities, and interfaces within the context of the given emergency scenario.
Several interviewees can be interviewed and evaluated simultaneously in a tabletop
drill, while a LSPT generally involves one emergency response position.
These observation methods are opportunities to observe decision-making capabilities,
use of procedures, and interactions among ERO positions. However, because of the
complexity of the method, evaluators need to be very well prepared, knowledgeable,
and experienced. Additionally, assistance will be needed from the organization being
evaluated in preparing scenarios and providing a trusted agent to assist in setup and
conduct of the observations.
Preparation of a brief, simple and realistic scenario and clear scenario objectives is
necessary. The entire session/interview should be executable in about 45 to 60
minutes. Objectives and scenario details must be communicated clearly to avoid
confusion. Clock time should be observed for time sensitive activities, such as event
classification, notification, and protective action decision-making. Responders
should be allowed to talk through their actions with minimal interference. Leading or
coaching should only be permitted at a level commensurate with the procedures and
personnel normally present to assist responders.
The evaluator should maintain a timeline when conducting these observations and
document actions taken and decisions made based on the scenario. Procedures and
job aids used for performance should be documented. Results should be compared
against the established objectives for the session and strengths and weaknesses should
be documented. Time should be allowed for clarification and constructive critique at
the end.
4.5.2 Evaluation Results
Based on the analysis and evaluation of the information collected from the data sources
reviewed, an evaluation should yield at least findings and corrective actions, as required
by the observed or projected performance. Other judgments such as Improvement Items,
Superior Performance, and Noteworthy Practices are optional. An AAR should be
produced for all evaluations to provide supporting documentation for the evaluation
activity and the resulting findings and program improvements.
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Findings. An evaluation consists of a judgment of the adequacy of demonstrated or
projected performance in specific functional areas and activities, developing specific
response or programmatic products, and utilizing the appropriate equipment, facilities,
and tools. This performance is compared with a single evaluation criterion or a selected
subset of criteria to determine its adequacy. Findings are then used to express these
judgments resulting from either program or exercise evaluations by identifying the
inadequacies in demonstrated or projected performance and characterizing their
significance. These finding categories are Deficiency and Weakness, in order of
decreasing significance. Section 4.4 of DOE G 151.1-3 contains definitions of the two
finding categories along with guidance for their use in program and exercise evaluations.
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An essential aspect of evaluation results is a concise, clear, and complete description of
each particular finding. This description must detail explicitly the situation,
circumstances, and special considerations and constraints that are needed to characterize
the finding and identify the specific underlying fault. In addition, the finding description
should be sufficiently explicit so that a recommended solution, if determined by the
evaluator, is clearly expressed and readily apparent in the finding text.
To ensure that the evaluation findings are accurate and consistent with the observations
and perceptions of multiple evaluation teams, draft findings should be reviewed and
validated by all team members in an open discussion in order to achieve consensus. Such
a validation process should resolve any identified discrepancies. This process is an
essential step in an evaluation process to be accomplished prior to the preparation of the
report.
Improvement Items. During an evaluation, an evaluator may note situations where,
while specific criteria are being met and the performance objective for a particular
program element is being achieved, the performance of the evaluated organization could
be improved or made more efficient if they were to adopt standard DOE or industry
practices. While the evaluator will have discussed the specifics with representatives from
the evaluated organization, these recommendations are included in the report (in an
appendix is acceptable) in sufficient detail to allow interested parties and subsequent
evaluators to understand the situation and justification. It is sometimes useful to prepare
Improvement Items in formats similar to that used for findings, since management at the
facility/site- or activity-level may choose to track subsequent actions with the Corrective
Action Tracking Systems (CATS) used for findings.
Superior Performance. Superior Performance denotes observed site performance or
documented practice that demonstrates/implies excellence in a specific aspect of an
emergency management activity. They are not necessarily recommended for other
DOE/NNSA sites across the complex. Examples of Superior Performance need not be
developed for every facility/site or activity and, therefore, the absence of specific
instances of Superior Performance does not reflect shortcomings on their part.
Section 131
Noteworthy Practices. When an evaluated organization has demonstrated a superior and
unique approach, technique, product, tool, etc., this may be documented as a Noteworthy
Practice. Noteworthy Practices are actions worthy of being emulated by other
DOE/NNSA facilities/sites or activities. They should be described in sufficient detail so
that interested parties and subsequent reviewers can understand the justification for the
designation and can modify the practice to suit their particular situation.
Corrective Actions. Evaluations and the resulting findings would be of no benefit to an
emergency management program if identified problems were not addressed through
corrective actions. The corrective action responding to each finding is developed by the
evaluated organization. To ensure that the problems identified will be corrected in an
effective and timely manner, the evaluated organization should produce the following:
• Clear statement of the finding
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• Statement of the cause of the identified problem area
• Details of the actions needed to eliminate the cause
• Responsibility for corrective action
• Schedule for completion of corrective action
4.6 Self-Assessments
A self-assessment can be viewed as an evaluation (program or exercise) of an emergency
management program performed and/or sponsored by the organization itself or by some
level of the management of the organization responsible for evaluating the emergency
management program. Any level of the DOE organizational structure can perform a self-
assessment, including personnel who are:
• Involved in the emergency management program and directly responsible for
activities or program components that they are assigned to evaluate
• Involved in the emergency management program, but not directly responsible for
activities or program components that they are assigned to evaluate
• Within the sponsoring organization, but without a direct relationship to the
emergency management activities (e.g., Quality Assurance Department)
• With no direct connection or relationship to the program or the sponsoring
organization
Personnel performing self-assessments should be qualified and trained in audits or
evaluations, and, if possible, should be at most indirectly associated with the specific
activities or emergency management program components they evaluate. This is
particularly important for an evaluation of analyses (e.g., EPHA) related to the program
bases and analytical tools. While the author of such analyses can certainly verify the
required contents and end results, an objective view by another analyst is the most
efficient way to evaluate their validity. The author may be too close to the analysis to
judge it objectively. This discussion is not intended to preclude an author evaluating his
own work, but merely to point out possible limitations associated with that approach. In
areas other than technical analyses, the evaluations conducted by directly involved
personnel are more likely to yield objective evaluation results consistent with evaluations
conducted by the other groups mentioned above.
Self-assessments of emergency management programs should be based on the standard
performance evaluation criteria listed in Appendix D of DOE G 151.1-3. Self-
assessments may also include compliance with external non-DOE codes and regulations
and, similarly, with internal organizational requirements and commitments. The
methodology associated with self-assessments is very similar to that applied for other
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forms of evaluations. The data- and information-gathering and evaluation techniques will
be substantially the same.
Self-assessments can contribute significantly to enhancing a program's effectiveness
through:
• Verifying program status on a periodic basis, for the benefit of emergency
management staff and management
• Identifying program and performance weaknesses and negative trends
• Providing program-specific budgetary/staffing planning basis
• Preparing for an evaluation by an external sponsor
Secondary benefits of self-assessments, especially those performed by members of the
emergency management program themselves, include:
• Reinforcing confidence of staff/management in the ability of the emergency
management program to respond
• Providing emergency management staff with the opportunity to view the integrated
program
Using a consistent set of performance evaluation criteria, as given in Appendix D, and the
same definitions for expressing the significance of findings will simplify the process of
combining self-assessment results with the results of other evaluations. Placing self-
assessments and external evaluation results on the same performance-based scale can
accomplish the following:
• Validate self-assessment results and reinforce confidence in the process;
• Facilitate the identification of similar problems and possible solutions from across the
DOE complex; and
• Track progress in improving and maintaining program readiness using all available
performance evaluation data.
The internal program evaluation can be the primary focus, but not the only part of a self-
assessment program. It provides the opportunity to examine the results of other
assessment activities throughout the year. Internal evaluations should be planned and
organized to include and focus on those areas that the organization most critically needs
to test and evaluate each year. Emergency managers should consider the following in
determining the scope and focus of self-assessments:
• Results of evaluations from the previous year
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• Results of performance tests over the past year (exercises, drills, etc.)
• Results of response to actual events
• The scope of evaluations from the previous years, ensuring that areas that were not
evaluated thoroughly receive greater scrutiny
• Progress in making corrective actions previously identified
• Weaknesses identified from other self-assessment activities
• Achievement of performance measures set for the organization’s emergency
management program
• Improvements that the organization is committed to making
As resources for external evaluation activities decrease, more emphasis will be placed on
the use of self-assessments for assuring that the readiness of the emergency response
capabilities is maintained at a satisfactory level. A reasonable and consistent approach
for conducting these internal evaluations is to follow the guidance suggested for external
evaluations using consistent evaluation criteria and the same definitions for severity of
findings. This simplifies the process of combining the results of internal program
evaluations with exercise results, and combining self-assessments with external
evaluations.
Section 133
Finally, Appendix E presents a discussion of a systematic approach that views self-
assessment as a continuous monitoring and evaluation process. This approach provides
the emergency management program with a flow of data over the course of a year by
which program maintenance activities (i.e., programmatic activities) can be monitored for
indications of potential performance lapses. This continuous process maintains the
concepts of evaluation and improvement as a vital component of the emergency
management program.
4.7 Post-Emergency Evaluation
A Post-Emergency Evaluation is a critique of response to an actual emergency event
or condition at any DOE facility/site or activity. In addition to being required by
DOE O 151.1C, it is required by DOE Order 5480.19 and 29 CFR 1910.120. Emergency
management specialists should accompany the team assigned to critique the response to
the event (e.g., a team conducting an accident investigation required by DOE O 225.1A;
Type A or B Investigation). It is important to emphasize that as a member of an accident
investigation team, the team leader has the responsibility to determine the procedures and
protocols involved in the conduct of the investigation. Hence, as a member of the team,
an emergency management specialist must follow the direction of the team leader.
This section is intended to give emergency management personnel some preliminary
guidance on a general approach to the emergency management investigation related to a
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response. The evaluation of the emergency response to an actual event should include
the following steps:
Step 1. Collect and Review Data
• Collect and review shift logs
• List personnel on shift
• Review emergency communications in logbooks
• Review ERO notification and activation times
• Review sequence of response to emergency
• Review press releases
• Review recorded operating parameters of equipment
Step 2. Reconstruct sequence of events from data.
Step 3. Conduct interviews to validate/complete event/response description.
• Have two to three persons on the interview team representing operations and the
safety organization
• Compare the interview sequence of events with logs to verify the sequence and
clarify discrepancies
• Involve emergency response personnel as appropriate. Include offsite response
personnel involved with the response.
Step 4. Several After-action, or follow-up, steps should be accomplished as follows:
• Draft a report on the reconstructed sequence of events. Identify report items by
source of information (i.e., log, interview, work request, work permit, and inspection
team observations.) Have emergency response personnel review the draft.
• Conduct a tabletop response. Conduct a team tabletop response to the event utilizing
site procedures and recording the actions that should have been performed were the
procedures followed. Compare against the reconstructed sequence of events.
• Analyze events, decisions, and response actions. Use the evaluation criteria given in
Appendix D to focus the analyses of the response on the generic components of the
emergency management elements. The results of the post-emergency analyses can be
structured similarly and will be compatible with exercise evaluation results.
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• Identify areas needing corrective action or improvement (i.e., findings). Emergency
response findings and corrective actions should be identified. Implementing the
corrective actions is the responsibility of the organization.
Section 134
More detailed guidance for structuring an evaluation of an actual response to an accident
is available elsewhere. This limited description is intended to support the assertion that
such a post-emergency evaluation is similar to an exercise evaluation. Hence, the
evaluation of exercises and, likewise, the response during an actual emergency should be
based on the same evaluation criteria. However, during an actual emergency, objectives
selected for evaluation will correspond to the response needs of the specific emergency,
while, for an exercise, objectives will be selected to focus the exercise performance on
specific aspects of the program to be tested.
4.8 Performance Indicators
As emphasized previously, neither a program evaluation nor an exercise evaluation
provides a single, standalone measure of emergency management program readiness. A
reliable and comprehensive estimate of the “readiness” of an emergency management
program must be based on an integrated assessment of both quantitative programmatic
data and subjective evaluations of the various functions, activities, products, analyses,
“tools,” etc., that contribute to the implementation, maintenance, improvement, and
execution of emergency response capabilities. For the estimate to be meaningful, the
contributions must be reasonably comprehensive and reflect the emergency management
program within a somewhat narrow time frame.
Realistically, however, the contributions to such a comprehensive assessment may take a
number of years to accumulate and, as a result, could reflect data and evaluations from
different stages of a program. This would be especially true for large sites with extensive
programs, where substantial resources, planning effort, and time would be involved in
acquiring the necessary data, resulting in a significant interval between valid estimates of
readiness for the full program. To avoid such potential inconsistencies and delays in
assessing and tracking program readiness, an approach using specific programmatic data
and/or evaluation results in selected functional areas can provide timely performance
indicators to reflect discrete aspects of program readiness over the broad scope of the
program.
Performance indicators for emergency management will consist of a set of critical
indicators or “vital signs” derived from programmatic data and/or evaluation results to
track the readiness of the program. Similar to physiological “vital signs,” such as
temperature, blood pressure, heart rate, glucose level, cholesterol levels, etc., used by
physicians to track patient health, “critical” performance indicators can be developed to
focus on specific aspects of selected emergency management activities to measure the
“health” of the program. In the case of the physiological vital signs, each by itself
provides only a single indication of a potential health threatening condition, which leads
the physician to order further tests and procedures. Similarly, emergency management
indicators only tell a part of the story and further investigation is required in order to
determine if a problem actually exists and, if it does, to provide further diagnosis.
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Section 135
The discussions that follow address two performance indicators: performance metrics and
performance measures. A performance metric is a single parameter that reflects
performance in terms of its absolute value (e.g., percent ERO personnel trained). A
performance measure reflects performance in terms of the value of a metric relative to a
pre-assigned goal (e.g., percent ERO personnel trained relative to a goal of 90%). The
performance metric is used to follow or trend a value that characterizes a given activity or
function. A performance metric can be used when a performance goal is unavailable or
not meaningful for use as the baseline for a performance measure. A practical means for
selecting an acceptable and achievable goal for the performance measure is by tracking
the values of a performance metric over time, and selecting a candidate value that
approximates an acceptable goal. The goal can be modified as more performance data is
collected over time.
Performance indicators are usually discussed in terms of deterministic processes that
produce products or services with identifiable characteristics that meet the needs of the
customer. Whether the product meets the specific requirements is either directly apparent
or becomes apparent through deterministic testing. In contrast, the “products” of
emergency management are not necessarily objects that can be directly observed and
whose characteristics are readily apparent and well defined. Actual tests (i.e., actual
emergencies, exercises) are not comprehensive, involve a snapshot of performance in
response to a single event scenario, test only selected functions, and usually involve only
one cadre of the ERO. Hence, the ongoing activities that maintain the program
(i.e., programmatic activities) must also be evaluated to provide assurances that the
program satisfies the comprehensive objectives associated with the range of hazards on
the facility/site or associated with an activity and is maintained at a level of readiness to
protect workers, the public, and the environment.
The remainder of this section focuses on the types and general characteristics of
performance indicators and how they relate to emergency management. This is followed
by a more detailed discussion of performance indicators specific to emergency
management programs.
4.8.1 General Characteristics of Performance Indicators
This section reviews general characteristics of performance indicators as covered in
literature focused on performance-based management of organizations that deliver
products or services on a continuous basis [Cf. How to Measure Performance. A
Handbook of Techniques and Tools, prepared by the TRADE Performance-Based
Management Special Interest Group (PBM-SIG), October 1995]. This fundamental
characteristic is in contrast to the standby nature of the response elements of an
emergency management program. However, some general characteristics of performance
indicators shared by continuous and stand-by systems are addressed in the following
discussion.
Performance indicators reflect critical quantitative or qualitative performance
characteristics of products, services, and processes. They represent a useful tool for
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helping to understand, manage, and improve how organizations (including, processes,
programs, etc.) perform. In general, performance indicators can reflect:
• How well the organization is doing
• If it is meeting its goals
• If customers are satisfied
Section 136
• If processes are in statistical control
• If and where improvements are necessary
A logical selection of performance indicators can provide an organization with the
information necessary to make intelligent decisions related to achieving the
organization’s mission and goals.
Most performance indicators can be grouped into one of six general categories of
performance characteristics.
• EFFECTIVENESS: Process characteristic indicating the degree to which the
process output (work product) conforms to requirements. [Are we doing the right
things?]
• EFFICIENCY: Process characteristic indicating the degree to which the process
produces the required output at a minimum resource cost. [Are we doing things
right?]
• TIMELINESS: Measures whether a unit of work was done correctly and on time.
Criteria must be established to define what constitutes timeliness for a given unit of
work. Criteria are usually based on customer requirements.
• QUALITY: Degree to which a product or service meets customer requirements and
expectations.
• PRODUCTIVITY: Value added by the process divided by the value of the labor
and capital consumed.
• SAFETY: Measures the overall health of the organization and the working
environment of its employees.
Emergency management performance indicators will generally reflect the first three
performance characteristics: Effectiveness, Efficiency, and Timeliness. Quality may
describe performance in specific functional areas of the emergency management
program, such as training, offsite interfaces, or public information.
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Performance indicators should reflect implementation characteristics such as the
following:
• Use measurable data
• Are understandable, practical
• Allow uniform interpretation
• Are normalized for bench marking
• Apply broadly
• Provide basis for continual self-assessment
• Are compatible with existing sensors
• Are an agreed-upon basis for decision-making; are accepted and have owners
• Are precise in interpreting the results; reflects results, not activities used to produce
results
• Relate directly to a performance goal
It should be noted that several of the characteristics listed above might not apply to
performance indicators for some organizations or programs because of the uniqueness of
their missions or the availability of data for constructing performance indicators.
Specifically, some performance indicators for emergency management may not satisfy
the first and the last two characteristics, if they are subjective evaluation results rather
than measurable parameters or they reflect activities rather than results of activities,
respectively. These deviations from the usual, expected characteristics of performance
indicators result from the “standby” nature of emergency management programs and the
inability to accurately test the response without an actual emergency. This forces the
dependence on programmatic data and evaluation results, rather than actual emergency
response, to estimate readiness to respond.
Performance indicators can also be characterized by what is measured. A process can be
divided into four steps: input, activity, output, and outcome. The first three are
measurable in a continuous process, and the fourth is sometimes measurable. This
characterization leads to four categories of measurement data:
• INPUT-Based: what the process needs to perform
• ACTIVITY-Based: what is done with the input
• OUTPUT-Based: what the activity produces
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• OUTCOME-Based: what is the ultimate use/benefit/impact of the output
Note that the data used in the performance indicator represents a graded scale from basic
INPUT to a process, to the ACTIVITIES that use the INPUT, to the OUTPUT of the
ACTIVITIES, and, finally, to the intended OUTCOME of delivering the OUTPUT to the
customer. In other words, the data used in indicators can vary from the most basic, the
INPUT, to the final result, the OUTCOME.
Emergency management performance indicators can be characterized by all of the data
types given above. However, the last category is difficult to measure, since the
emergency management program “performs” or exhibits its desired OUTCOME,
protecting people, only in response to an actual emergency. The infrequency of
emergencies necessarily limits the availability of OUTCOME indicator results for
estimating program readiness.
This characterization of performance indicators, based on type of input data, implies that
the more directly OUTCOME can be measured, the more reliably the indicator reflects
program readiness. A performance indicator that uses program INPUT data (e.g., budget
or staff) is a weaker indicator of program readiness than ACTIVITY (e.g., training) or
OUTPUT (i.e., trained ERO personnel) performance indicators. INPUT-based indicators,
although clearly important, contain little direct, useful information, by themselves, that
will reflect how the program will ultimately perform. The INPUT-based indicators are
the most basic/primitive. Hence, as the data used in the indicators varies from INPUT, to
ACTIVITY, and to OUTPUT data, the more accurately the indicator approaches a
measure of readiness to achieve the desired OUTCOME of emergency response.
Performance indicators can also reflect the evolution of an organization or program. A
different set of performance indicators might reflect performance for each phase in its
development (e.g., concept development, design, implementation, start-up, testing,
steady-state maintenance, etc.) In addition, performance indicators may also provide
indicators of program status or actual or predicted performance in different time frames,
within a given phase of the organization or program, for example:
• Trailing Indicators - Measure past performance
• Current Indicators - Measure current status
• Leading Indicators - Forecast future performance.
4.8.2 Emergency Management Performance Indicators
Performance indicators for an emergency management program can be grouped into three
categories: PROGRAMMATIC, RESPONSE, and ORGANIZATIONAL. The first
two categories reflect the functions and activities associated with the elements of an
emergency management program. The third includes “organizational” factors that may
influence or reflect the overall performance of the program as a whole.
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PROGRAMMATIC indicators are associated with the programmatic emergency
management elements and associated functions and activities listed in Section 4.4. These
indicators will reflect program status and “ongoing” preparedness activities. Most of the
PROGRAMMATIC indicators will be quantitative parameters that will characterize the
current status of the program (e.g., plans, procedures, analyses completed or reviewed,
corrective actions implemented) and accomplishments of preparedness activities
(e.g., ERO personnel trained, drills held to reinforce training, individual skill tests
performed, exercises conducted.)
Section 138
RESPONSE indicators reflect the activities or functions associated with the response
emergency management elements. In contrast to the quantitative PROGRAMMATIC
indicators, the majority of RESPONSE indicators are based on subjective assessments of
specific response activities or functions by expert evaluators observing “simulated”
performance during exercises or making assessments of “projected” performance through
evaluations of plans and procedures. RESPONSE indicators can be either a qualitative
assessment or evaluation of a single activity or function, or a quantitative roll-up of
individual qualitative assessments of multiple activities or functions.
ORGANIZATIONAL indicators will reflect factors influencing overall “organizational”
behavior (e.g., management commitment and participation, management decision
making, allocation of resources, organizational culture, communication within the
organization) that might influence the performance of the various functions and activities
associated with the emergency management program. These measures may be
considered indicators of systemic “organizational” influences that could affect the
readiness of an organization in various emergency management functional areas.
Next, as noted above, performance indicators can be characterized by “What is
measured.” The following types of indicators reflect the general spectrum of available
measurement data: INPUT-Based, ACTIVITY-Based, OUTPUT-Based, and
OUTCOME-Based. An example from an emergency management program is given
below:
TRAINING and DRILLS
INPUT-Based - Training requirements (Positions, qualification criteria, personnel
assignments, course content, trainer qualifications . . .)
ACTIVITY-Based - Conduct training sessions (Number of sessions, hours, personnel,
training aids, drill requirements . . .)
OUTPUT-Based - Successfully trained for specific activity (Written tests, individual
performance tests, or exercise results indicate success)
OUTCOME-Based - Personnel successfully execute the activity for which they are
trained (Successful outcome based on performance during an
actual event.)
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The spectrum of data, represented by INPUT-based through OUTPUT-based, represents
a graded scale covering data which only remotely reflects the performance of the program
(i.e., INPUT) through data that directly measures the success of the program
(i.e., OUTCOME) in accomplishing its mission.
Data can also be collected that reflects performance of a program during the current time
frame versus anticipated performance in a future time frame. A DOE emergency
management program can be viewed as having at least two phases:
1. Development, including planning and initial implementation
2. Maintenance, review, and improvement (or “steady-state”)
Performance indicators selected to assess and track readiness vary depending on the
phase of the program. For example, during the development phase, an indicator might
include “completion of plans and procedures.” In the maintenance phase, the indicator
might transition to “periodic review of plans and procedures.” For mature systems
(i.e., in maintenance phase), the readiness evaluation component based on program
evaluations defaults to quantitative programmatic data alone, since reviews of the plans
and procedures themselves will ultimately reach a limit in effectiveness for identifying
performance problems. As a result, exercise evaluations will become the primary means
for tracking readiness during the maintenance phase of an emergency management
program.
Section 139
Performance indicators may also reflect program status or the actual or projected
performance in different time frames, within a given phase of the program. An example
of a trailing indicator might be the number of findings associated with program and
exercise evaluations for the past year. A leading indicator that could predict future
performance is the percentage of required Corrective Actions closed or resolved during
the past year. A current indicator might represent the percentage of required Hazards
Survey/EPHA completed at the end of a reporting period associated with Phase I, for
example.
Finally, performance indicators can be quantitative, qualitative, or a combination of
quantitative and qualitative parameters. A quantitative indicator can be represented by
the absolute value of a numerical parameter or its value relative to a goal. A qualitative
indicator derives from a subjective evaluation of a programmatic or response activity or
function, with the resulting indicator having one of two answers, “Pass/Fail” or,
equivalently, “Yes/No.” An Ordered Scale can also be used with either a quantitative
parameter or a quantitative roll-up of individual qualitative assessments. An Ordered
Scale provides a naturally ordered and labeled set of relative “grades” by which to
express a judgment (i.e., evaluation) that becomes a performance indicator. Examples of
Ordered Scales include:
1. A, B, C, D, and F
2. EXCELLENT, VERY GOOD, GOOD, POOR, and INADEQUATE
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3. GOOD, ADEQUATE, MARGINAL, and POOR
4. BEST INDUSTRY PRACTICE, EFFECTIVE PERFORMANCE, IMPROVEMENT
NEEDED, and SIGNIFICANT WEAKNESS
A combination of quantitative and qualitative characteristics can be subjective and
produce data in categories that are naturally ordered. A combined indicator can use
subjective evaluation results, in terms of a roll-up (i.e., weighted or unweighted addition)
of numbers of criteria satisfied (or failed) for a given function or activity within a
programmatic or response element; for example, an evaluation judgment expressed in
terms of an Ordered Scale or a “Pass/Fail” criteria.
The source of most quantitative performance indicators will be programmatic data and
preparedness activity measures, such as percentage of plans/procedures completed or
percentage of ERO trained, respectively. Note that the goal for the first is 100%.
However, the training goal may be a site-specific percentage that can only be obtained
through experience in testing and evaluating the program. There are also some
quantitative indicators that could be indicative of performance during the emergency
“response”, but there are not many. Task duration (i.e., promptness) is the primary
measure that may be derived from an exercise. Others, such as the percentage of total
ERO successfully activated by the first call-out, might also reflect performance using site
plans and procedures as the standard.
Emergency management performance indicators resulting from evaluations may not
conform strictly to the definitions found in the standard performance measurement
literature. These indicators may involve a subjective, qualitative judgment of failure or
adequacy or a quantity that reflects failure or adequacy, such as, the number of formal
findings or evaluation criteria satisfied for a specific program element. Qualitative
performance indicators can also reflect systemic failure across program elements, by
collecting findings or criteria to reflect performance indicators such as “decision-
making,” “communication,” “planning basis,” “performance,” “control,” etc.
Emergency management fault modes for evaluation criteria were given in Section 4.4.5.
Section 140
The general development of performance indicators and how to use these to measure
progress or success are given in DOE G 120.1-5, Guidelines for Performance
Measurement.
Practical examples of performance indicators that are specific to emergency planning and
preparedness (i.e., programmatic performance indicators), include:
• Completing ERO training when it is due/scheduled
• Maintaining a schedule for regular ERO equipment surveillance and maintenance
• Completing a given percentage of procedure reviews each year
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• Meeting goals for drilling the organization with hazards survey/assessment scenarios
that have not been addressed for some time
• Contacting a target number of news media organizations each year with information
on the emergency response program
• Maintaining a schedule of contacts with mutual aid organizations
• Internal evaluation effectiveness – number of findings not self-identified
Examples of performance indicators that can be used by facilities and sites to help
monitor emergency response (i.e., response performance indicators) capability from
exercises and drills:
• Achievement of facility accountability within required timeframe
• Ability to release approved emergency information to media in a timely manner
• HAZMAT team response time
• Correct event categorization/classification decision making
• Availability of prompt notification system
Performance indicators for emergency management can include factors that reflect
management commitment (i.e., organizational performance indicators) to the emergency
management program. Examples include:
• Management participation in ERO
• Allocation of resources for the program
• Participation in review meetings
• CAP approvals
• Communication within the emergency management organization
• Management involvement in program assessment activities
4.8.3 DOE/NNSA Framework and Performance Indicators
Performance indicators for emergency management provide the means for each tier of the
DOE/NNSA management system and the Office of Emergency Operations to track areas
of critical importance to the mission of emergency management throughout the
DOE/NNSA complex. At each tier of the DOE/NNSA system, indicators can be defined
that measure performance in establishing and maintaining emergency management
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capabilities commensurate with their responsibilities for planning, preparedness,
readiness assurance, and response.
Responsibilities of the levels of management in the DOE/NNSA hierarchy that have not
been addressed are the oversight responsibilities with respect to facilities/sites or field
elements below them in the organizational structure. Performance indicators can provide
a mechanism for tracking emergency management programs at multiple facilities/sites
within the responsibility of each DOE/NNSA Cognizant Field Element or Headquarters
organization. Most critical performance indicators can be “rolled-up” or aggregated to
express a summary of performance for all applicable facilities/sites and activities. For
example, a performance measure, such as percentage of ERO trained, has a goal for a
specific facility/site of XX%. At the next level up in the DOE hierarchy, the performance
indicator could be expressed as percentage of facilities/sites that have met or exceeded
their specific ERO training goals. Similarly, performance indicators that reflect
performance of the DOE/NNSA field elements can also be rolled-up for tracking at the
headquarters level. Roll-up techniques can also be applied to qualitative
PROGRAMMATIC, RESPONSE, and ORGANIZATIONAL performance indicators.
Section 141
DOE G 151.1-3 C-1
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APPENDIX C. Emergency Readiness Assurance Plans
This appendix provides an acceptable template of format and content for Emergency
Readiness Assurance Plans (ERAPs) for reporting the status of Emergency Management
Programs for DOE/NNSA sites and activities. Unless otherwise indicated, the following
ERAP sections apply to both Operational Emergency Base Program Facilities and
Operational Emergency Hazardous Material Programs. Example information used in the
tables to clarify expected entries is given in italics.
EMERGENCY READINESS ASSURANCE PLANS - FY 20XX
1. Program Description: Provide a brief summary statement of the overall status
(e.g., mature, evolving) and level of readiness (commendable/acceptable/marginal) of
the emergency management program.
A. Based on the results of the Hazards Surveys/Emergency Planning Hazards
Assessments (EPHAs), briefly describe the rationale for determining whether the
site consists of Base Program Facilities only or requires a Hazardous Material
Program.
Briefly, discuss the status of your Hazards Surveys. If a survey has not been
completed, provide information on completing the surveys, as outlined in
Table C-1.
Table C-1. Hazards Survey Status
Building/Facility
Planned
Completion Date
Actual Completion
Date
EPHA
Required
Update
(when hazards
change or 3 years)
Bldg. XYZ 10/28/05 10/25/05 Yes 10/28/06
N-Area 5/31/06 6/12/06 No 5/31/09
Solid Waste Disposal
Facility
06/07/06 06/05/06 Yes 06/05/09
Laboratory 9999 1/31/06 2/12/06 Yes 1/31/07
PQR Facility 09/30/06 Survey delayed due to
change in facility
operation
Unknown TBD
Briefly, describe the generic types of Operational Emergencies (OEs) (from your
Hazards Survey) that could affect your site, facility, or operation.
If Hazards Surveys indicate EPHAs are required, discuss briefly the status of your
EPHAs. Provide the status of all EPHAs (complete/ incomplete) across the site
using Table C-2.
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Table C-2. EPHA Status
Building/Facility
Planned
Completion Date
Completion
Date
Hazardous Material
Program Required
Update
(when hazards
change or 3 years)
Bldg. XYZ 3/25/06 02/28/06 Yes 02/28/07
Laboratory 9999 05/31/06 05/30/06 Yes 05/30/07
Solid Waste
Disposal Facility
09/015/06 09/12/06 No 09/12/09
If a Hazards Material Program is required, identify the dominant hazards on the
site in terms of the most severe consequences (i.e., General Emergency (GE), site
Area Emergency (SAE), or Alert; biological release OEs) from potential OEs
using the table format below. The table should contain the majority of the most
severe potential hazardous material releases.
Table C-3. Dominant Potential OEs
Emergency
Classification
Facility GE SAE A Radioactive/Chemical/Biological Material
Building XYZ X X Chemical - Arsine
Radionuclide - Plutonium
Laboratory 9999 Biological Material (OE only)
B. In narrative format, provide the status of your emergency plan and implementing
procedures (date of last review, and if appropriate, date of revision).
C. Exemptions: List any exemptions that have been requested, and the associated
rationale for exemption. If none have been requested, provide the statement “no
exemptions requested.”
Table C-4. Exemptions
Exemption Reason
Date of
Submission
Approval
Date Duration
Change time for notification
to state and local agencies
Consistency with
approved MOU
6/1/03 1/28/04 Review annually
Section 142
2. Program Application: This section of the ERAP describes how provisions of the
readiness assurance program, outlined in the emergency plan, have been applied in
the past fiscal year and provides a forward look at what changes in focus will be
applied in the future to assure continuous improvement. In narrative format, discuss:
A. What weaknesses in the program are being revealed through self-assessment,
evaluations, exercises, and training and drills?
DOE G 151.1-3 C-3
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B. Are there differences between weaknesses found during self-assessment activities
and those found by external oversight organizations? How are these differences
explained or reconciled?
C. How are weaknesses revealed in the past year to be addressed? What progress
has been made in implementing corrective actions? Have corrective actions been
effective in resolving the original weakness?
Table C-5. Program Weaknesses
Evaluation
Method
Conducting
Organization Identified Weakness
Facility
specific or
Site Wide
Date of
Evaluation
Corrective
Action(s)
Corrective
action
Status
Annual
Exercise
HS-63 Site EOC did not
notify HQ Watch
Office of the event
and initial
classification.
Site 11/02/05 Revise Job Aids,
Revise training
and
Retrain EOC
members
Completed
all items
06/25/06
Annual
Exercise
HS-63 None of the Bldg.
XYZ, personnel knew
where their
evacuation rally
points were located;
accountability took
60 minutes.
Facility 11/02/05 Re-mark rally
points,
Revise facility
job aid,
Conduct
refresher
training,
Conduct
evacuation
exercise to
validate.
Completed
all items
09/15/06
Self-
Assessment
Internal MOU(s)/MOA(s)
with offsite agencies
out of date
Site 01/28/06 Update all
MOU(s) and
MOA(s)
In
progress,
90%
completed
Self-
Assessment
Internal EPHA(s) does not
provide full technical
basis for source terms
Site and
affected
Facilities
01/28/06 Revise EPHAs to
provide basis for
source terms
In
progress,
50%
completed
No Notice
Exercise
NA-40 EOC could not
provide consequence
assessments to offsite
agencies for two
hours after event
classification.
Site and
affected
Facilities
06/18/06 Revise procedure
Retrain on-duty
EOC personnel.
Conduct drills
Conduct
evacuation
exercise to
validate.
In
progress;
70%
completed
Following the format in Table C-5, provide outstanding evaluation/assessment
findings (issues) identified by external sources (i.e., HS-63). This applies to
findings reported in the Departmental Corrective Action Tracking System
(CATS) only:
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Table C-6. Status of Findings/Corrective Actions (as reported in CATS)
CAP Finding/Issue No. (identify number of
corrective actions for each issue in parentheses) Due Date Status Projected Completion
NTS-06/28/1999-I0001 (24) 07/30/05 On schedule 07/30/05
D. What lessons are being drawn from operating experience of other DOE
facilities/sites, as well as from related industries?
E. Where does the facility/site have resource or other constraints that affect the
process of continuous improvement of the program? What is the effect of the
constraints?
3. Program Achievements: For the fiscal year just completed, following the format in
Table C-7, compare actual achievements accomplished to projected goals,
milestones, and objectives. Progress in meeting assigned program performance
metrics should be reported here also.
Table C-7. Emergency Management Program Achievements: Goals, Milestones,
Objectives, and Status
Goal Milestones Objective Status
Conduct Annual
Exercise
Section 143
Exercise Plan Approval – 02/25/06
Rehearsal Drill – 04/25/06
Exercise – 05/25/06
Successful accomplishment of
exercise objectives.
Exercise conducted
05/25/06; 2
deficiencies and 3
areas needing
improvement
identified
Conduct annual
review or
revision of all
facility EPHAs
Bldg. XYZ: 02/28/06
Laboratory 9999: 05/30/06
Solid Waste
Disposal Facility: 09/12/06
All EPHAs revised or
reviewed by end of FY06
All facilities have
completed required
EPHA
revisions/reviews
by FY06.
Conduct Annual
Training of ERO
Classes conducted each quarter All personnel assigned to Site
and Facility complete annual
training (initial or refresher)
Completed
09/15/06
Conduct initial
planning for
FY07 Full
Participation
Exercise
Develop initial set of objectives
06/25/06
Conduct meeting with State
Emergency Management and Public
Health Dept. on exercise scope and
objectives 07/15/06
Conduct meeting with County
Emergency Management and Public
Health Dept. on exercise scope and
objectives 08/10/06
Submit revised objectives to State and
County agencies for concurrence
09/22/06
Develop objectives for FY07
Full Participation Exercise
Get concurrence on exercise
from State Emergency
Management and Public
Health Dept.
Get concurrence on exercise
from County Emergency
Management and Public
Health Dept.
Offsite agencies
concurred on final
set of objectives on
09/27/06
DOE G 151.1-3 C-5
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4. Program Goals: For the new fiscal year, describe projected goals, milestones, and
objectives following the format shown in Table C-8.
Table C-8. Emergency Management Program Projections: Goals, Milestones,
Objectives
Goal Milestones Objective
Conduct Annual
FY07 Full
Participation
Exercise
Exercise Plan Approval – 03/01/07
Rehearsal Drill – 04/25/07
Exercise – 05/25/07
Successful accomplishment of
exercise objectives.
Conduct Hazards
Survey
PQR Facility: 4/20/07 Complete Hazards Survey
Conduct an
review of
process changes
that require a
review or
revision of
facility EPHAs
Bldg. XYZ: 03/07/07
Laboratory 9999: 05/30/07
Solid Waste
Disposal Facility: 09/12/07
EPHAs revised or reviewed as
needed by end of FY07
Conduct Annual
Training of ERO
Classes conducted each quarter All personnel assigned to Site
and Facility complete annual
training (initial or refresher)
Conduct initial
planning for FY
08 Annual
Exercise
Develop initial set of objectives
06/25/07
Conduct meeting with exercise
participants on exercise scope and
objectives 07/15/07
Submit revised objectives to
participants for concurrence 09/22/07
Develop objectives for FY08
Annual Exercise
Obtain concurrence on
exercise scope and objectives
from participants. 10/03/2007
Conduct Final Planning
Conference. 10/15/07
5. Other: Briefly discuss concerns pertinent to the emergency readiness assurance
program. Specifically, this section addresses issues unique to the facility/site that
should be brought to the attention of senior management (i.e., concerns with state and
local agencies, funding, resources, etc.). Include suggestions or methods to resolve
these issues.
Resource requirements should include resources necessary to administer and operate
the emergency management program. Be sure to include resources necessary for
conduct of self-assessments and emergency exercises, resources needed to make
corrective actions, improve on weaknesses, and implement lessons learned. Changes
in regulatory and statutory requirements associated with emergency management
should also be considered when determining required resources associated with
program changes.
Section 144
A. Provide the total number of full-time/part-time site/facility personnel required for
the current and next fiscal years in Table C-9 by Federal and contractor staff.
Describe the composition (i.e., types of personnel) included in the totals for each
category. In narrative format, provide justification for changes in staffing levels.
C-6 DOE G 151.1-3
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Table C-9. Emergency Management Personnel -
Full Time Equivalents
Organization FY06 FY07
Federal 2.5 2
Contractors 15 15
Justification:
B. In Table C-10, summarize the Emergency Management Program operational
budget. Describe the general types of costs in each category. In narrative format,
provide justification to support additional funding requirements.
Table C-10. Emergency Management Operational Budget
Organization FY06 FY07
Federal $700K $1,005K
Contractors $2,200K $3,000K
Justification:
C. If equipment requirements are not included in the Operational Budget, provide
budget estimates for equipment in Table C-11. This list includes necessities such
as EOC equipment, field monitoring equipment, and Radiological Assistance
Program (RAP) Team equipment:
Table C-11. Equipment Requirements
Item FY06 FY07
Plotter Printer $50K
Replace TV Monitors in the EOC $6K
Replace 2 radiological field
monitoring instrument sets
$30K
Justification:
DOE G 151.1-3 D-1
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APPENDIX D. Evaluation Criteria
D.1 Introduction
This appendix provides a standard set of generic performance-based criteria to be used
for the evaluation of the planning, implementation, maintenance, and response of
emergency management programs across the DOE/NNSA complex. These evaluation
criteria were developed to provide a comprehensive set of criteria applicable to the
diversity of DOE/NNSA facilities/sites and activities based on meeting the performance
goal(s) specified for each program element. Performance goals (or standards) were
developed from DOE O 151.1C, Comprehensive Emergency Management System.
Differences in hazards will dictate how facilities/sites and activities approach program
planning, implementation, maintenance, and response. Hence, evaluations of such
programs should be conducted in a manner commensurate with hazards and missions.
Criteria presented here are intentionally generic and were developed to reflect the actual
or expected general performance of the emergency management element and not the
specific details of plans/procedures, “tools”, organizational structure, products, resources,
training, etc.
Criteria should NOT be used during an exercise evaluation as given. Program-specific
expectations and characteristics should be developed for each emergency management
program based on facility/site- or activity-specific hazards and associated program
capabilities (e.g., derived from existing plans and procedures). From these attributes,
generic criteria can be restated in the context of the specific program. This facilitates the
evaluator’s task by bounding the general intent and scope of the function or activity, as
expressed in the generic criteria, and focusing on the key program-specific attributes
incorporated in the revised criteria. In contrast, during a program evaluation, generic
criteria for programmatic and response elements are used as the standard, against which
plans and procedures, and preparedness activities are judged in the context of
facility/site- or activity-specific hazards, associated program capabilities, and the
“commensurate with hazards” approach.
Section 145
For example, a criterion that addresses “sufficient” staffing of Emergency Response
Organization (ERO) positions is stated generally to cover a site with a 5 member ERO as
well as a site with 100 members. An actual quantitative “sufficient” staffing requirement
is program-specific. The standard set of criteria can be interpreted in the context of a
particular program or activity, or a specific scenario during an exercise, in a number of
ways, including the elimination of inapplicable criteria and the development of program-
specific criteria from the generic criteria given in this chapter. Any modifications or
additions to the set of generic criteria contained herein should be documented and well
understood by all evaluating elements prior to conduct of the evaluation.
Fifteen broad sets of criteria are grouped according to Program Element in Sections D.2,
D.3, and D.4 of this appendix. Each program element section includes the performance
D-2 DOE G 151.1-3
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goal of the element and a set of evaluation criteria, separated according to response or
programmatic subelements, as appropriate. The set of criteria are labeled to identify
applicable evaluation types:
• P for program evaluation only,
• E for exercise evaluation only,
• P/E for both program and exercise evaluations; and
• CE for evaluation of the conduct of an exercise.
Numbered criteria, for example, P2.1, P/E6.42, P/E12.2, and P/E14.12, represent critical
criteria necessary to ensure that the performance goal for each element is satisfied.
Subcriteria labeled as a, b, c . . . represent performance that supports the numbered
criteria and emphasize a distinguishable function, component, or activity that merits
special attention. Subcriteria do not necessarily represent or define the total performance
expectations of the criterion; they help refine the interpretation of performance failures
and specific Findings. CE criteria given in Section D.3.3 for the Exercise program
element are used for evaluating planning, control, conduct, and evaluation of an exercise.
As indicated in DOE G 151.1-3, Section 4.4, several Response elements have
programmatic functions, in addition to their primary response functions. These are given
at the end of the lists of response function criteria.
D.2 Technical Planning Basis
Performance Goal:
The Hazards Survey is an examination of the features and characteristics of the
facility/site or activity that identifies the generic types of emergency events and
conditions and the potential impacts of such emergencies to be addressed by the DOE
Comprehensive Emergency Management System. The Hazards Survey identifies key
components of the Operational Emergency Base Program that provide a foundation of
basic emergency management requirements and an integrated framework for response to
serious events involving health and safety, the environment, safeguards, and security.
For facilities/sites and activities involved in producing, processing, handling, storing, or
transporting hazardous materials that have the potential to pose a serious threat to
workers, the public, or the environment, the Hazards Survey provides a hazards screening
process for determining whether further analysis of the hazardous materials in an
Emergency Planning Hazards Assessment (EPHA) is required.
Section 146
An EPHA is performed for each facility/site or activity involving at least one candidate
hazardous material, as identified through the hazardous material screening process and
indicated in the Hazards Survey. EPHAs involve the application of rigorous hazards
analysis techniques that provide sufficient detail to assess a broad spectrum of postulated
Operational Emergency (OE) events or conditions involving the potential onsite release
DOE G 151.1-3 D-3
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of (or loss of control over) hazardous materials and to analyze the resulting
consequences. Each EPHA reflects both the magnitude and the diversity of the hazards
and the complexity of the processes and systems associated with the hazards, and
provides the technical planning basis for determining the necessary plans/procedures,
personnel, resources, equipment, and analyses (e.g., determination of an EPZ) for the
Operational Emergency Hazardous Material Program.
Evaluation Criteria:
Hazards Survey
P1.1 The Hazards Survey identifies the generic types of serious emergency events
or conditions to which the specific facility/site or activity may be exposed
(e.g., fires; flood; tornadoes; earthquakes; hazardous material releases;
regulated pollutant or oil spills; safeguards and security events; work place
accidents; malevolent acts; mass casualties; wildland fires; nearby offsite non-
DOE hazardous material accidents).
P1.2 The Hazards Survey qualitatively identifies the potential impacts of different
generic types of emergencies on health and safety, the environment, and
national security.
P1.3 The Hazards Survey identifies emergency management requirements that
constitute the Operational Emergency Base Program:
a. DOE orders [other than DOE O 151.1C], other Federal agency, state, and
local emergency planning and preparedness requirements associated with
different generic types of emergency events or conditions and applicable
to the facility/site or activity; and
b. Existing plans, such as earthquake self-help plans or mass casualty plans,
detailing compliance with Federal, State, or local standards, are
incorporated directly into the Operational Emergency Base Program or are
invoked by reference.
P1.4 Facilities/sites and activities that require a documented, quantitative EPHA are
identified by a hazardous material screening process and are indicated in the
Hazards Survey.
P1.5 Hazards Surveys are reviewed and updated every three years to include
changes in the hazards. If changes result in an increase in hazards, the
Hazards Survey is updated immediately; otherwise, the Hazards Survey can
be updated at the next scheduled review.
Hazardous Material Screening Process
P1.6 A hazardous material screening process is developed and applied to
facilities/sites and activities involved in producing, processing, handling,
D-4 DOE G 151.1-3
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storing, or transporting hazardous materials that have the potential to pose a
serious threat to workers, the public, or the environment.
P1.7 The screening process identifies candidate hazardous materials that, if
released in an uncontrolled manner, would immediately threaten or endanger
those who are in close proximity; have the potential for dispersal beyond the
immediate vicinity in quantities that threaten onsite personnel or the public;
and have a potential rate of dispersal to require a time-urgent response to
implement protective actions for workers or the public. Protective Action
Criteria (PACs) are used to indicate when the consequences of a release of a
radioactive or chemical hazardous material threaten or endanger health and
safety.
Section 147
P1.8 The hazardous material screening process identifies all hazardous materials in
a facility/site or activity that require further analysis in an EPHA.
P1.9 All radioactive materials in a facility/site or activity are subjected to a
hazardous material screening process.
P1.10 Radioactive materials excluded from further analysis in an EPHA include:
a. Sealed radioactive sources that are engineered to pass the special form
testing specified by the Department of Transportation (DOT) or the
American National Standards Institute (ANSI);
b. Materials in solid form for which there is no plausible dispersal
mechanism; materials stored in DOT Type B shipping containers with
overpack, if the Certificates of Compliance are current and the materials
stored are authorized by the Certificate; and
c. Materials used in exempt, commercially available products.
P1.11 Radioactive hazardous materials that are analyzed in an EPHA include the
radioactive materials listed in DOE-STD-1027-92 in quantities greater than
the Category 3 values given in Attachment 1, Table A.1, of that Standard.
P1.12 All chemicals in a facility/site or activity with known or suspected toxic
properties are subjected to a hazardous material screening process.
P1.13 Chemicals excluded from further analysis in an EPHA include:
a. Materials used in the same form, quantity, and concentration as a product
packaged for distribution and use by the general public;
b. Materials that have a Health Hazard rating of 0, 1 or 2 based on National
Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 704; and
DOE G 151.1-3 D-5
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c. Solid or liquid materials that because of their physical form or other
factors (e.g., plausible dispersal mechanisms) do not present an airborne
exposure hazard.
P1.14 Quantities of chemical hazardous materials considered to be “easily and safely
manipulated by one person” are determined in accordance with the provisions
of 29 CFR 1910.1450(b).
P1.15 Chemical hazardous materials in quantities greater than a quantity that can be
“easily and safely manipulated by one person” that are analyzed in an EPHA
include:
a. Chemicals with an assigned Health Hazard rating of 3 or 4 based on
NFPA 704; and
b. Chemicals without an assigned Health Hazard rating.
P1.16 All biological hazardous materials in a facility/site or activity are subjected to
a hazardous material screening process.
P1.17 At a minimum, Federally regulated biological Select Agents and Toxins,
identified in lists published in Department of Health and Human Services
(HHS) regulations [42 CFR 73] and Department of Agriculture (USDA)
regulations [7 CFR 331 and 9 CFR 121], require further analysis in an EPHA.
Toxins listed in 42 CFR 73 and 9 CFR 121 must exceed the minimum
quantities specified to be Federally regulated and require an EPHA.
P1.18 If biological agents and toxins require further analysis in an EPHA, then a
Hazardous Material Program is established.
P1.19 The possibility that excluded materials could initiate, through fires,
explosions, or process upsets, the release of other hazardous materials is
considered. In addition, excluded asphyxiates are considered if they have the
potential to affect collocated workers because of the large quantity, material
characteristics, and favorable geography.
P1.20 If the screening process identifies at least one hazardous material requiring
further analysis, the Hazards Survey must indicate that an EPHA is needed for
that facility/site or activity.
Section 148
P1.21 The Office of Secure Transportation (OST) develops an EPHA for OST
shipments and establishes an Operational Emergency Hazardous Material
Program.
P1.22 An EPHA is developed for shipments that do not satisfy governing DOT
regulations and specifications for commercial hazardous materials transport.
No EPHA is required if the shipment satisfies these commercial transport
regulations and specifications.
D-6 DOE G 151.1-3
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Emergency Planning Hazards Assessment (EPHA)
P1.23 The EPHA describes the site and facility or activity, directly or by reference,
including:
a. Site location, facility description, operations, mission, processes, tenant
activities, and facility locations (including proximity to adjacent facilities,
site boundary, utility and transportation networks);
b. Transportation activities, including types and quantities of materials
transported, containers, routes, speeds, and controls exercised; and
c. Characteristics of the region beyond the site boundary including
summaries of demographics (including special populations),
administrative boundaries, geographic features, and economic enterprises
(e.g., farms, factories).
P1.24 The EPHA contains a current, accurate compilation of hazardous material
inventories or maximum quantities associated with a facility/site or activity
based on reliable and comprehensive methods of hazardous material
identification (e.g., walkthroughs, shipping records, local chemical inventory
systems).
P1.25 Analyzed hazardous materials are characterized in the EPHA:
a. Storage location, process use, physical properties, and health effect
parameters;
b. Engineered controls, administrative controls, storage segregation,
safeguards and safety systems for prevention and/or mitigation of releases
are identified; and
c. Actual barriers to release are identified, such as, containers, buildings,
berms, sumps, catch basins, filters, and heating, ventilation and air
conditioning (HVAC) systems.
P1.26 A spectrum of potential emergency event/condition scenarios are postulated
and realistically analyzed in the EPHA, including:
a. Applicable initiating events (e.g., fire, explosion, natural phenomena,
malevolent events, accidents, external events);
b. Contributing events, accident mechanisms, equipment or system failures,
engineered safety system and control failures, source terms, material
release chemistry and characteristics, environmental transport and
diffusion, exposure considerations, and health effects;
DOE G 151.1-3 D-7
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c. Range of event probabilities and consequences, from low probability, high
consequence to high probability, low consequence, including Beyond-
Design-Basis events;
d. Events exclusively affecting onsite personnel, as well as those affecting
the offsite public; and
e. Potential malevolent acts applicable to the facility/site or activity based on
Design Basis Threat (DBT) guidance, if available.
P1.27 Emergency events or conditions are NOT excluded from analysis in the
EPHA based solely on calculated occurrence probabilities or arbitrarily
defined delimiters (e.g., credible or incredible, likely or unlikely).
P1.28 Indicators of emergency event/condition scenarios that can be used for
recognition purposes in developing Operational Emergency (OE)
categorization criteria and Emergency Action Levels (EALs), as appropriate,
are identified and documented in the EPHA.
P1.29 Estimates of the consequences of hazardous material release scenarios
(primarily radioactive and chemical) are calculated and documented in the
EPHA:
Section 149
a. Receptor locations include facility and site boundaries, collocated
facilities, and offsite locations, including special populations
(e.g., schools, hospitals, and prisons).
b. Calculations are performed for the purposes of protective action
determinations, response decision-making, and special planning,
[e.g., Emergency Planning Zone (EPZ) determinations].
c. Methods and models used for calculating consequences are applicable to
the releases analyzed; assumptions used are valid and documented.
P1.30 Biological agent release scenarios are analyzed to obtain indicators for
recognizing OE events/conditions and for initial protective actions. The
analysis methodology is documented in the EPHA.
P1.31 Classified material quantities and storage are analyzed and documented in a
classified annex to the EPHA.
Maintenance of the EPHA
P1.32 The EPHA is reviewed and updated every three years.
P1.33 An accurate and timely method for tracking changes in operations processes,
or accident analyses that involve hazardous materials (e.g., introduction of
new materials, new uses, significant changes in inventories, modification of
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material environments) is established and maintained for the facility/site or
activity.
P1.34 Management procedures are implemented to ensure that emergency planners
are notified of significant changes in inventories, processes, or activities that
may affect the results of the EPHA [e.g., active involvement of emergency
management personnel in the Integrated Safety Management System (ISMS)].
P1.35 Sufficient transition time is allowed for emergency management personnel to
review the EPHA and modify plans or procedures, as necessary, to account for
changes in the hazardous material situation.
P1.36 Changes made in the facility/activity or activity safety analysis reports,
probabilistic risk assessments, vulnerability assessments, fire hazard analyses,
environmental impact statements, and other documents that address hazards or
potential consequences are integrated with maintenance of the EPHA.
P1.37 If changes result in an increase in hazardous material inventories or release
potential, the EPHA is updated immediately; otherwise, the EPHA can be
updated at the next scheduled review.
P1.38 After a decontamination and decommission action is completed, the
Operational Emergency Hazardous Material Program is adjusted to be
commensurate with the hazards that remain.
Emergency Planning Zone (EPZ)
P1.39 The size and shape of the EPZ is determined by the spectrum of scenarios, the
consequences of the potential releases, health effect parameters, and geo-
political boundaries beyond the site boundary.
P1.40 The EPZ is the area within which protective actions will most likely be taken
to protect workers or the public from the effects of the majority of airborne
hazardous material releases from the facility or site.
P1.41 The EPZ defines an area within which protective actions will provide for
substantial reduction in early lethality for all analyzed airborne hazardous
material releases.
P1.42 The EPZ is sufficiently large that the planning efforts within the defined EPZ
provide a substantial basis for expansion of response activities beyond the
EPZ, if warranted by actual conditions.
P1.43 The maximum EPZ for any DOE or NNSA facility or site does not exceed a
nominal radius of 10 miles (16 kilometers).
P1.44 Biological hazardous material release scenarios are not used in determining
the size of the EPZ.
Section 150
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D.3 Programmatic Elements
D.3.1 Program Administration
Performance Goal:
Effective organizational management and administrative control of the facility/site or
activity emergency management program is provided by establishing and maintaining
authorities and resources necessary to plan, develop, implement, and maintain a viable,
integrated, and coordinated comprehensive emergency management program.
Evaluation Criteria:
Organizational Management and Administrative Control
P2.1 An individual is designated to administer the facility/site or activity
emergency management program with responsibility and authority to ensure:
a. The development and maintenance of the Hazards Surveys and EPHAs,
emergency plans and procedures, and related and supporting
documentation;
b. The development of the annual Emergency Readiness Assurance Plan
(ERAP);
c. The development and conduct of the training and exercise programs and
the coordination of readiness assurance (evaluation, assessment) activities;
and,
d. The coordination of emergency resources by identifying resource needs
and ensuring the availability of adequate resources.
P2.2 The designated administrator has the authority and resources, commensurate
with assigned responsibilities, and has access to top-level management.
P2.3 For biosafety facilities, the designated Responsible Official (RO) is
responsible for implementing and maintaining the emergency management
program. This designated administrator/official is responsible for tasks that
involve compliance with the requirements for the Select Agent Rule(s) [i.e.,
HHS regulation 42 CFR 73 and USDA regulations 7 CFR 331 and
9 CFR 121] and with existing DOE/NNSA emergency management policy as
expressed in DOE O 151.1C.
P2.4 Administration of planning, preparedness, and readiness assurance activities is
established and effectively maintained.
P2.5 Formal review and approval processes are established and documented to
ensure that the planning and development of components of the emergency
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management program (e.g., planning analyses, plans and procedures,
supporting documentation) receive sufficient oversight by staff, management
and DOE elements to ensure consistency, correctness, and completeness.
P2.6 Reasonable schedules (e.g., documentation submittals, reviews, and
approvals; preparedness and readiness assurance activities) are established and
enforced to ensure that program planning, preparedness, and readiness
assurance activities are initiated, completed, and repeated in a timely and
efficient manner.
P2.7 An emergency management document control system is established that meets
industry standards for document review, approval, distribution, and change
control.
P2.8 An auditable administrative program for ensuring the availability of vital
records essential to the continued functioning or reconstitution of an
organization during or after an emergency, regardless of media, is established
and reliably maintained.
P2.9 If classified information or materials are being used or generated, effective
security procedures and controls are implemented, and security reviews are
conducted.
P2.10 Financial resource requirements are identified and budgeted.
P2.11 Facilities and equipment requirements are identified, monitored, and acquired.
P2.12 Personnel requirements are identified and addressed.
Specific Program Responsibilities
Section 151
P2.13 Emergency plans and procedures are developed, verified, validated, reviewed
periodically and updated as necessary.
P2.14 Emergency management programs and emergency plans are developed for
facilities not requiring a Hazardous Material Program that address the
minimum Base Program requirements.
P2.15 Emergency management programs and emergency plans are developed for
facilities requiring a Hazardous Material Program that are seamlessly
integrated with Base Program requirements.
P2.16 Facility emergency management programs on a site are consistent, and are
integrated to ensure site-wide consistency.
P2.17 A leased facility owned by DOE/NNSA effectively integrates the activities of
the leased facility into the DOE/NNSA site-wide emergency management
program.
DOE G 151.1-3 D-11
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P2.18 Biosafety facility incident response plans are integrated with the site-wide
emergency management program.
P2.19 Training, drills, exercises, and evaluation activities are scheduled, conducted,
monitored, and documented.
P2.20 Development and approval of supporting documentation [e.g., Memoranda of
Understanding (MOUs), Memoranda of Agreement (MOAs)] is
accomplished; periodic reviews and maintenance are scheduled and
conducted.
P2.21 Emergency management documents are controlled, available, and current.
P2.22 Correction of findings and incorporation of lessons-learned are tracked,
addressed, verified and validated.
a. Methods are in place and implemented to remain appraised of current
events and lessons learned and to utilize this information for continuous
improvement; and
b. A site-wide corrective action program is implemented and effective in
correcting problems identified in the emergency management program.
P2.23 Specific emergency management Order requirements related to administrative
responsibilities and emergency management activity (i.e., planning,
preparedness, readiness assurance) parameters/constraints are monitored for
compliance.
Document Requirements
P2.24 Current reviewed and approved Hazards Surveys and EPHAs are available
and provide technical planning basis information for the development of the
Operational Base Program and Operational Hazardous Material Program,
commensurate with the hazards.
P2.25 Emergency plans and procedures:
a. An emergency plan documents the emergency management program,
including provisions for response to an OE; Emergency Plan
Implementing Procedures (EPIPs) describe how the emergency plan will
be implemented;
b. Clearly state roles, responsibilities, and requirements associated with
program administration, emergency response organizations, individual
positions, operations, and interfaces; and
c. Describe the integration and coordination of the emergency management
program with the DOE ISMS.
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P2.26 If a facility is generating classified information or Unclassified Controlled
Nuclear Information (UCNI), all emergency management documents
(e.g., plans and procedures, supporting program documentation, scenarios, and
assessments) are reviewed by a Derivative Classifier (DC) or UCNI reviewing
official.
P2.27 Documented arrangements with leased facilities include:
a. Description of how each of the lessee’s emergency management program
elements are integrated into the site-wide program; and
b. A requirement that the lessee’s hazardous material inventories be reported
to the site emergency management program annually; and
Section 152
c. A requirement that the lessee must report significant changes to the
facility or hazardous material inventories prior to implementing the
changes.
D.3.2 Training and Drills
Performance Goal:
A comprehensive, coordinated, and documented program of training and drills is an
integral part of the emergency management program to ensure that preparedness
activities for developing and maintaining program-specific emergency response
capabilities are accomplished.
Evaluation Criteria:
Training Program
P3.1 A comprehensive and systematic training program plan for accomplishing
emergency management training goals includes: training objectives, target
audience, an outline and schedule of training, resources and facilities,
organizational responsibilities, and training program administration.
P3.2 The training program for all primary and alternate personnel assigned to the
facility- and site-level ERO includes the following key provisions for
position-specific requirements:
a. Initial training and annual refresher training;
b. Refresher training when hazards or emergency plan/implementing
procedures change; and
c. Demonstrations of proficiency through testing and drills.
DOE G 151.1-3 D-13
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P3.3 The emergency management training program provides a current and
structured view of program-specific training requirements:
a. The training program is reviewed and updated periodically, or as required,
based on changes in related emergency plans/procedures;
b. A detailed list of courses and drills provided by the emergency
management program is developed and maintained; and
c. Matrices for the identification and implementation of required training
topics versus ERO positions are developed and maintained.
P3.4 Administrative program records provide the source for identifying qualified
instructors, training material approval authority, and qualification signature
authority.
P3.5 The program plan defines minimum program standards for:
a. Training required for each position (i.e., certain courses must be
completed);
b. Proficiency (e.g., minimum grades on tests, how prior experience is
credited);
c. Performance (i.e., acceptable performance during drills, exercises, or
actual events); and
d. Retraining, and re-validation.
P3.6 The emergency management training program is effectively integrated and
coordinated with related training programs provided by other organizations.
P3.7 Training courses are performance-based, customized to program-specific ERO
positions, contain learning objectives, and have testing as a final validation of
satisfactory completion.
P3.8 Refresher training includes details of program changes and lessons-learned
from actual events, exercises, DOE and industry operating experience, and
program evaluations.
P3.9 The training program requirements are in accordance with the National
Response Plan (NRP) and National Incident Management System (NIMS).
Training Requirements - Onsite
P3.10 Initial training and periodic drills are provided to all workers who may be
required to take protective actions (e.g., shelter-in-place; assembly,
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evacuation). This training is required when they are employed, when their
expected protective actions change, or when the emergency plan changes.
P3.11 Refresher training is provided annually to certified operators and supervisors,
and those workers who are likely to witness a hazardous materials release and
who are required to notify proper authorities of the release.
Section 153
P3.12 Both initial training and annual refresher training is provided for instruction
and demonstration of proficiency by all personnel (i.e., primary and alternate)
comprising the ERO for their assigned position or function.
P3.13 Special team training is conducted for functional groups, in particular those
with technical and management team assignments (e.g., consequence
assessment).
P3.14 To ensure that ERO decision makers are able to perform their duties promptly
and accurately:
a. Training emphasizes the need for prompt, accurate, and practical
judgments involving event categorization and classification, protective
actions, and the urgency of notifications of OEs;
b. EAL training is conducted periodically to improve the proficiency of ERO
decision makers in timely and conservative classification of OEs,
including decision-making when information is incomplete or uncertain
and for events and conditions that are not covered explicitly by the EALs;
and
c. ERO personnel authorized for initial classification and protective action
decision-making validate their proficiency by participating in performance
tests that employ hypothetical scenarios and available facility/site aids,
such as EALs.
Training Requirements - Offsite
P3.15 Offsite emergency response personnel and organizations, including state,
local, tribal, or private hospitals, public health, medical, or ambulance
services, that are expected to support onsite response efforts, are offered:
a. Training on facility- and site-specific emergency-related information,
conditions, and hazards; and
b. The opportunity to participate in training and drills validating procedures
for response activities expected to involve integration of onsite and offsite
response resources.
DOE G 151.1-3 D-15
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Drills
P3.16 Drills provide supervised, “hands-on” training and/or validation of classroom
training for members of the ERO.
P3.17 Drills provide opportunities to demonstrate responder proficiency in
infrequently performed emergency management tasks.
P3.18 Scheduled drills include scenario driven events that provide interface practice
between the ERO and site medical and security organizations.
P3.19 Drills are developed or modified based upon feedback from actual events,
exercise evaluations, and self-assessments, or to validate new or revised
procedures and equipment modifications.
Training Documentation and Records
P3.20 Lesson plans, drill plans, training materials and facilities, instructor and
student manuals, and training software are maintained, formally documented,
and included in an index or matrix.
P3.21 Training records are maintained for all personnel assigned ERO positions,
primary and alternate, showing in-progress, final, and upcoming re-
qualification status.
P3.22 Drill and exercise participation and performance is documented for each
member of the ERO.
D.3.3 Exercises
Performance Goal:
A formal exercise program validates all elements of an emergency management program
over a 5-year period. The exercise program validates facility- and site-level emergency
management program elements by initiating response to simulated, realistic emergency
events/conditions in a manner that, as nearly as possible, replicates an integrated
emergency response to an actual event. Planning and preparation use an effective,
structured approach that includes documentation of specific objectives, scope, time lines,
injects, controller instructions, and evaluation criteria for realistic scenarios. Each
exercise is conducted, controlled, evaluated, and critiqued effectively and reliably.
Lessons-learned are developed, resulting in corrective actions and improvements.
Section 154
Evaluation Criteria:
Exercise Program
P4.1 A formal exercise program includes the validation of elements of an
emergency management program over a 5-year period.
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a. The exercise program includes a plan (e.g., a matrix) for validating all the
elements of each program by incorporating specific objectives in exercises
over the 5-year period.
b. The exercise program also includes provisions for incorporating objectives
in each exercise that are designed to validate revised plans/procedures,
implemented corrective actions, and program improvements.
c. The exercise program includes provisions for evaluating all exercises and
establishes a critique process, which includes gathering and documenting
observations of participants.
P4.2 The exercise program involves testing emergency response capabilities by
initiating response to simulated, realistic emergency events/conditions in
exercises of varying scope over the 5-year period:
a. Facility Operations-Based Exercise - A facility or group of facilities
(i.e., with common facility-level ERO positions) annually tests the
proficiency of personnel in facility-level ERO positions in accomplishing
facility-specific emergency response duties and responsibilities.
b. Site Operations-Based Exercise - At least annually, the site tests the
integrated emergency response capabilities of personnel in facility- and
site-level ERO positions, and includes both facility- and site-level
evaluation and critique. For multi-facility sites, the basis for the exercise
is rotated among facilities or groups of facilities.
c. Full Participation Operations-Based Exercise - A site-level exercise is
considered full participation if offsite organizations participate. Offsite
response organizations are invited to participate in a site-level exercise at
least once every 3 years.
P4.3 The schedule of exercises includes:
a. Periodic participation by appropriate DOE or NNSA radiological response
assets, if the facility/site plans to use the assets in response to an
emergency.
b. Security scenario events to test the interfaces between site security and the
facility/site ERO.
P4.4 Exercises of each of the Department’s radiological emergency response assets
are conducted at least once every three years. These assets include the
Accident Response Group (ARG), Nuclear Emergency Support Team
(NEST), Federal Radiological Monitoring and Assessment Center (FRMAC),
Aerial Measuring System (AMS), National Atmospheric Release Advisory
DOE G 151.1-3 D-17
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Center (NARAC), Radiation Emergency Assistance Center/Training Site
(REAC/TS), and Radiological Assistance Program (RAP).
P4.5 At a minimum, building evacuation exercises are conducted annually
consistent with Federal regulations [e.g., (41 CFR 102-74-360)], local
ordinances, or NFPA standards, to ensure that employees are able to safely
evacuate their work area.
P4.6 Communications with DOE Headquarters (HQ), the Cognizant Field Element,
and offsite agencies are tested at least annually or as often as needed to ensure
that communications systems are operational.
P4.7 Failed objectives of an exercise (i.e., “Deficiencies”), as determined by a DOE
or NNSA organization responsible for evaluating the exercise, are re-
evaluated during a drill or through a selected functional test within a fixed
time period following the exercise.
P4.8 Corrective actions and lessons-learned identified as a result of facility- and
site-level exercise evaluation findings are addressed by the emergency
management program.
Section 155
a. Completion of corrective actions for facility and site exercises includes a
verification and validation process, which verifies that the corrective
action has been put in place and validates that the corrective action has
been effective in resolving the original finding;
b. The verification and validation process is independent of those who
performed the corrective action; and
c. Corrective actions involving revision of procedures or training of
personnel are completed before the next exercise.
Exercise Planning
CE4.1 Exercise planning is effectively coordinated among onsite and offsite
organizations or groups regarding their respective participation and exercise
objectives. Any limitations or simulations regarding their participation are
identified and documented.
CE4.2 An exercise is fully documented by an Exercise Plan (EXPLAN) that
includes: specific exercise objectives, scope, scenario, participants,
simulations, time lines, injects (i.e., messages), technical data, safety and
security provisions, controller instructions, and evaluation criteria.
CE4.3 The EXPLAN is completed in sufficient time before the conduct of the
exercise to allow for review and comments by DOE or NNSA line
management and the DOE Associate Administrator of Emergency Operations.
D-18 DOE G 151.1-3
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CE4.4 The EXPLAN contains sufficient information for effective conduct, control
and evaluation of the exercise.
a. The roles, responsibilities, and interfaces among exercise participants
(i.e., players/responders, controllers, evaluators, and observers) are clearly
addressed;
b. The provisions for exercise conduct and control are clearly identified; and
c. The provisions for exercise evaluation are clearly identified.
CE4.5 Specific exercise objectives provide the basis for evaluating/validating the
performance of response capabilities by each participating organization.
CE4.6 The scenario is consistent with the set of exercise objectives and explicitly
supports an evaluation/validation of each objective.
CE4.7 The exercise evaluation criteria used are facility/site- or activity-specific,
based on existing plans and procedures, and correlate with the exercise
objectives.
CE4.8 The scenario reflects current facility/site- or activity-specific hazards,
correlates technically with the EPHA, and is technically accurate in terms of
operations and radiological, chemical, biological, and meteorological data.
CE4.9 The technical data that supports the scenario (e.g., operational, radiological,
chemical, biological, medical, meteorological) is technically accurate and
clearly and unambiguously presented.
CE4.10 Simulations and limitations pertaining to participants and exercise activities
are clearly identified and documented.
CE4.11 Injects/messages contain accurate, unambiguous, and non-prompting
information and technical data for the players/responders and provide proper
direction for the exercise.
CE4.12 Provisions for safety, security, and public/media interface are clearly
identified and documented.
Exercise Preparation
CE4.13 Coordination among participants includes provisions for exercise initiation,
interruption, and termination.
CE4.14 Controllers and Evaluators are provided generic and exercise-specific training.
CE4.15 Controllers and Evaluators are provided with training on the scenario package,
and safety and security/safeguards provisions.
DOE G 151.1-3 D-19
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Section 156
CE4.16 Preparations, including participant briefings, safety provisions, staging of
simulation props, positioning of controllers/evaluators, and establishing of
initial conditions, are completed prior to exercise initiation.
CE4.17 Security of the exercise scenario is properly managed; pre-staging of players
and/or prior knowledge of scenario material by players are effectively
prevented.
Exercise Conduct/Control
CE4.18 Controller organization(s) are adequately staffed and positioned for effective
exercise conduct/control.
CE4.19 Controllers conduct/control the exercise in accordance with the
EXPLAN.
CE4.20 Controllers permit free play when free play would not interfere with the
scenario.
CE4.21 Controllers prevent interference and/or prompting by non-responders.
CE4.22 The simulation of activities is sufficiently realistic to provide confidence that
the activity could have been performed during a real emergency.
CE4.23 Players/responders perform their respective functions, initially and throughout
the exercise, in a professional manner as if the situation were an actual
emergency.
Exercise Evaluation
CE4.24 The evaluator organization is sufficiently staffed to evaluate the performance
and key decision-making of the responders in satisfying the exercise
objectives.
CE4.25 Evaluators display familiarity with responder organizations, functions,
procedures, and anticipated responder decisions and response activities.
CE4.26 Responders/players are evaluated with respect to demonstrated
proficiency of their respective responsibilities and functions,
communication and coordination with other responders, familiarity and
use of applicable procedures and equipment, and overall professional
response.
CE4.27 Facilities and equipment are evaluated with respect to adequacy of
functions/operability.
CE4.28 Procedures are evaluated with respect to their use by the responders,
specifically, their adequacy of content for the tasks performed.
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CE4.29 Notifications and communications are evaluated during every exercise.
Exercise Critique
CE4.30 Controllers conduct a post-exercise critique(s) to gather and document
observations and solicit feedback from the players/responders.
CE4.31 A formal critique process is conducted by the controller/evaluator
organization to determine whether the individual exercise objectives were
accomplished based on a synthesis of all the observations and
information/data gathered during the conduct of the exercise.
Documentation
CE4.32 An After Action Report (AAR) documents the results of the exercise critique
and evaluation.
D.3.4 Readiness Assurance
Performance Goal:
The emergency management Readiness Assurance Program provides a framework and
associated mechanisms for assuring that emergency plans, implementing procedures, and
resources are adequate by ensuring that they are sufficiently maintained, exercised, and
evaluated (including evaluations and assessments) and that appropriate and timely
improvements are made in response to needs identified through coordinated and
comprehensive emergency planning, resource allocation, training and drills, exercises,
and evaluations.
Evaluation Criteria:
General
P5.1 An effective formal and structured Readiness Assurance Program is
implemented consisting of evaluation and improvement programs, and
documentation of the readiness of the emergency management program based
on emergency planning and preparedness activities and the results of the
readiness assurance program [e.g., in ERAPs]
Section 157
Evaluation Program
P5.2 An evaluation program assures that emergency plans, implementing
procedures, and resources are adequate and sufficiently maintained, exercised,
and evaluated (including evaluations and assessments).
P5.3 Evaluations, including program evaluations and exercise evaluations, are
based on a consistent set of performance-based evaluation criteria, issued by
the Associate Administrator, Office of Emergency Operations [see
DOE G 151.1-3, Chapter 4, Appendix D].
DOE G 151.1-3 D-21
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P5.4 Self-evaluations:
a. A self-assessment of the emergency management program is conducted
annually by the facility/site or activity.
b. Findings (i.e., weaknesses or deficiencies) are identified in all program
and exercise evaluations.
c. Records are maintained of readiness assurance self-evaluations
(e.g., program or exercise self-assessments) and any related findings.
P5.5 External evaluations:
a. Evaluation schedules are coordinated with all involved organizations to
minimize impacts and maximize benefits. Evaluation schedules are
forwarded to the Associate Administrator, Office of Emergency
Operations to ensure maximum coordination.
b. Personnel responsible for developing or maintaining the emergency
management program as well as associated program documentation are
made available during periodic external evaluations.
c. Findings (i.e., weaknesses or deficiencies) are identified in all external
program and exercise evaluations.
d. Evaluated findings from program and exercise evaluations by
organizations external to the facility/site or activity are acknowledged
within 30-working days of receipt of the final evaluation report.
P5.6 Formal evaluation reports are prepared that document evaluation results and
specific findings.
P5.7 Performance indicators (including performance measures and metrics) capture
and track objective data regarding the performance of emergency management
programs in key functional areas; the results are shared with the Cognizant
Field Element and Associate Administrator, Office of Emergency Operations.
P5.8 No-Notice Exercises (NNXs), conducted at the discretion of the Associate
Administrator, Office of Emergency Operations, determine if the ERO
accomplishes selected objectives based on applicable plans, procedures,
and/or other established requirements. Involvement is limited to providing
trusted agents and responding when the exercise is conducted.
Improvement Program
P5.9 An improvement program provides assurances that appropriate and timely
improvements are made in the emergency management program in response
to needs identified through coordinated emergency planning, resource
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allocation, program assistance activities, evaluations, training, drills, and
exercises.
P5.10 Continuous improvement in the emergency management program results from
implementation of corrective actions for findings (e.g., deficiencies,
weaknesses) in all types of evaluations, including both self-assessments and
external evaluations.
P5.11 Evaluated findings from program and exercise evaluations by organizations
external to the facility/site or activity are acknowledged and include
corresponding corrective action plan.
P5.12 Corrective action plans are developed within 30-working days of receipt of
the final evaluation report.
P5.13 Corrective actions are completed as soon as possible. Corrective actions
addressing revision of procedures or training of personnel are completed
before the next annual self-assessment of the program.
Section 158
P5.14 Completion of corrective actions includes a verification and validation
process, independent of those who performed the corrective action, that
verifies that the corrective action has been put in place, and validates
that the corrective action has been effective in resolving the original
finding.
P5.15 Closure of findings from program and exercise evaluations by organizations
external to the facility/site or activity is validated by the evaluating
organization.
P5.16 The improvement program prepares corrective action plans, and
establishes and maintains a tracking system to monitor and verify
correction of findings from all program and exercise evaluations, or from
actual responses.
P5.17 The improvement program includes a system for incorporating and tracking
lessons learned from training, drills, actual responses, and a site-wide lessons
learned program.
P5.18 An established improvement program ensures that relevant lessons learned
(i.e., complex-wide; other non-DOE sources) are received at the facility/site or
activity, are reviewed for applicability, and incorporated in the emergency
management program as appropriate.
P5.19 An effective and reliable improvement program is ensured through sustained
management commitment to continuous improvement of the emergency
management program.
DOE G 151.1-3 D-23
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Emergency Readiness Assurance Plan (ERAP)
P5.20 The ERAP highlights program status, including, significant changes in
emergency management programs (i.e., planning basis, organizations,
exemptions) and comparison of previous ERAP goals, milestones, and
objectives to achievements.
P5.21 The ERAP identifies what the program goals were for the fiscal year that
ended coincident with the due date for the report and the degree to which
these goals were accomplished. The ERAP also identifies the goals for the
next fiscal year.
P5.22 The ERAP documents evaluation results and the status (i.e., open/unresolved
or closed) of associated corrective actions. Evaluation results include
facility/site and activity self-assessments and performance measures.
P5.23 The ERAP contains a sufficient level of accurate information and analysis to
provide management at all levels with an adequate tool for gauging
emergency management program readiness.
P5.24 Accurate site (i.e., facilities consolidated into one site document) ERAPs are
developed and submitted to the responsible DOE/NNSA Cognizant Field
Elements.
D.4 Response Elements
D.4.1 Emergency Response Organization (ERO)
Performance Goal:
An ERO, a structured organization with overall responsibility for initial and ongoing
emergency response and mitigation, is established and maintained for each facility/site
and activity. The ERO establishes effective control at the scene of an event/incident and
integrates ERO activities with those of local agencies and organizations that provide
onsite response services. An adequate number of experienced and trained personnel,
including designated alternates, are available on demand for timely and effective
performance of ERO functions.
Evaluation Criteria [RESPONSE Functions]:
ERO Organizational Structure
P/E6.1 The organizational configuration of the ERO is based on actual or potential
emergency conditions.
P/E6.2 Management structure of the emergency response facility provides for the
collecting and disseminating accurate data, setting priorities, assigning work
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Section 159
to functional groups, and keeping key emergency response staff abreast of
emergency response status.
P/E6.3 An “Emergency Director (ED)” or equivalently titled individual manages and
controls all aspects of the facility/site or activity overall response, and has the
authority to use necessary resources to mitigate the emergency.
P/E6.4 The ED has the authority and responsibility to perform the required functions,
including initial activation of onsite response assets, notification of offsite
authorities, and requests for offsite assistance, in accordance with the National
Response Plan (NRP) and the National Incident Management System (NIMS).
P/E6.5 The division of authority and responsibility between the Incident Commander
(IC) and the ED position is clearly established and maintained.
P/E6.6 Control of operations, monitoring, and repair teams is clearly vested in a
single ERO position or clearly defined between multiple ERO positions.
ERO Activation
P/E6.7 The ERO activation is based on actual or potential emergency conditions.
P/E6.8 The on-shift operations staff performs initial ERO response functions.
P/E6.9 The ERO is functionally staffed and activated in a timely manner; key
emergency response facilities are operational within an hour after declaration
of an OE.
P/E6.10 Staffing of ERO positions following the declaration of an OE is orderly,
controlled, and verifiable:
a. Personnel assigned to ERO positions gain access to their response stations
without impediment.
b. Non-ERO personnel are excluded from emergency response work areas.
c. Individuals in key response positions/functions are readily identifiable by
other ERO staff (e.g., through use of status board(s) or badging).
P/E6.11 Procedures and/or checklists, which describe the major activation and initial
response activities of key members of the ERO, are used.
P/E6.12 The order of succession of management personnel responsible for managing
the emergency in the absence of the primary designated ED is clearly
designated/ implemented.
P/E6.13 Extended operations (i.e., shift arrangements to cover 24-hour operations) are
anticipated and planned.
DOE G 151.1-3 D-25
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ERO Operations
P/E6.14 The ED, in the lead role responsible for emergency response, adequately and
effectively performs assigned functions utilizing sufficient and practical
knowledge of the effected facility/site or activity and its operations, the
emergency response team and its mission, and the available tools and
resources necessary to affect an appropriate response and mitigate the
emergency.
P/E6.15 Transfer of a command and control function to another emergency facility,
within an emergency facility, or to a command external to the ERO or ICS
(e.g., another Federal agency, such as DOJ/FBI) is completed in an orderly
and formal manner, and ERO personnel are informed of the transfer.
P/E6.16 The fully staffed ERO establishes effective internal and external interfaces
with other agencies and organizations; external interfaces may include: local,
state, tribal, and federal agencies, and non-governmental groups such as
concerned citizens and the media.
P/E6.17 An individual in the ERO is assigned liaison responsibilities for coordinating
with offsite agencies to ensure that effective communications are initiated and
maintained during an emergency.
P/E6.18 Members of the ERO:
a. Perform in their roles, functions, and interfaces and in their use of
emergency equipment, facilities, and resources in a timely, effective and
efficient manner;
Section 160
b. Clearly acknowledge and understand authorities and responsibilities in
functional areas; and
c. Identify and access available response resources (e.g., personnel,
equipment, consumables, and replacement parts), and, as appropriate, take
account of resource limitations and specific capabilities.
P/E6.19 Based on current knowledge of the situation, the responsible ERO operations
and technical support staff determine and implement a reasonable, well-
planned course of action within their sphere of responsibility.
P/E6.20 When priority actions are identified, tasking is clearly made to emergency
response staff, and actions are followed through to completion.
P/E6.21 Specialty groups (e.g., consequence assessment, maintenance, operations,
technical staff) supporting the emergency response staff provide timely
information to the decision-making process.
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P/E6.22 Adequate data are obtained and analyzed to support the operations staff in
assessing and mitigating the emergency events.
P/E6.23 Information is accurately and efficiently transmitted in an orderly and
documented manner throughout the chain of command and between/within
emergency facilities.
P/E6.24 The use of acronyms, code words, convention and/or technical terminology
causes no misunderstandings related to the response and associated data.
P/E6.25 Periodic briefings are provided on the status of the emergency and current
significant response priorities and activities.
P/E6.26 Communications are maintained with and information is provided regularly to
the DOE Headquarters Emergency Management Team (EMT).
P/E6.27 The ERO management effectively coordinates State and DOE site requests for
use of DOE/NNSA assets.
P/E6.28 An individual is assigned liaison responsibilities with personnel representing
DOE/NNSA assets (e.g., NARAC, FRMAC, AMS, RAP, REAC/TS, ARG,
and/or NEST) involved in the response to coordinate logistics, ensure that
effective communications are initiated and maintained, and ensure that data is
exchanged using consistent units of measure.
P/E6.29 ERO personnel are provided with adequate briefings concerning safety,
operations, communications, and hazards before being deployed.
P/E6.30 ERO teams are debriefed upon return from assigned missions and their
accomplishments, failures, exposures, and status information are recorded and
made available to other teams and emergency facilities.
P/E6.31 The responsible individual authorizes emergency response personnel to
receive exposures in excess of site administrative limits (or other Federal
criteria) for carrying out lifesaving or other emergency activities.
P/E6.32 An individual trained to recognize, categorize, and classify events and to
conduct appropriate notifications is available 24-hours a day, 7-days a week.
This individual’s authority is unambiguous and clearly communicated
throughout the ERO.
Evaluation Criteria [Special RESPONSE Functions/Positions]:
Incident Command System (ICS)
P/E6.33.1 An IC is in charge at the event scene:
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a. Control and coordination at the event/incident scene is consistent with
the NRP and the NIMS/Incident Command System (ICS), which
integrates local agencies and organizations that provide onsite
response services.
b. The ICS is identified in the emergency plan and memoranda of
understanding/agreement with local response organizations.
P/E6.33.2 The ICS is organized in the five major functional areas of NIMS/ICS:
Command, Operations, Planning, Logistics, and Finances and
Administration.
Section 161
P/E6.33.3 The incident is assessed and priorities are established with life saving,
safety, and incident stabilization receiving top priority.
P/E6.33.4 Incident command strategic goals and tactical objectives are clear and a
flexible action plan is implemented.
P/E6.33.5 Incident command evolves from providing oral direction to the development
of a written Incident Action Plan (IAP).
P/E6.33.6 The incident command staff continually assesses the situation, develops a
mitigation strategy, and requests additional assets as needed.
P/E6.33.7 Incident command coordinates internal and external response assets in an
effective manner.
P/E6.33.8 An ICS command post is strategically located in a safe area, where
command and control may take place safely and effectively.
P/E6.33.9 Command post and staging area(s) habitability is periodically assessed and
moved, as necessary, for safety purposes.
P/E6.33.10 Incident command staff ensures that response personnel take necessary
precautions for personal safety and contamination control, as follows:
a. Incident command staff establishes a staging area where arriving asset
personnel are briefed; communications are checked; special equipment is
issued; and the assets are deployed upon request.
b. Asset personnel being released are debriefed; personnel are accounted for;
personnel and equipment are surveyed for contamination; decontaminated
as necessary; and issued equipment is returned.
Hazardous Material Survey, Sampling, and Sample Analysis Teams
P/E6.34.1 Teams implement survey and sampling procedures in a timely manner:
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a. Field teams are provided with adequate monitoring equipment and
Personnel Protective Equipment (PPE) to accomplish field monitoring and
plume tracking within and beyond the EPZ; and
b. Teams correctly use protective equipment, such as protective clothing and
respirators, filter masks, and dosimetry.
P/E6.34.2 Equipment required for emergency response is adequate, accessible,
functional, and calibrated.
P/E6.34.3 Teams make effective use of maps or general arrangement drawings showing
pre-determined and potential monitoring points.
P/E6.34.4 Teams are briefed on facility and meteorological conditions, and exposure
control procedures before deployment and when changes occur.
P/E6.34.5 Teams maintain effective communications to transmit accurate and timely
readings and results to their team coordinator.
P/E6.34.6 Field teams are well directed and effectively controlled by emergency
response management, who:
a. Provide directions to survey specific areas;
b. Provide directions to minimize hazardous material exposure by exiting
high airborne and whole body dose areas (i.e., for radiological materials),
or high concentration areas (i.e., for toxic non-radiological materials),
when not actively engaged in sample and survey activities; and
c. Set exposure limits for survey and tracking teams, and collect and record
survey results.
P/E6.34.7 Teams utilize proper survey equipment and log results accurately.
P/E6.34.8 Teams collect samples, bag and mark them, and log results accurately and
efficiently.
P/E6.34.9 Samples are received, properly packaged, and labeled with information such
as sample time and date, sample location, volumetric data, sample media, and
sample or survey collection person's name.
P/E6.34.10 Analysis procedures and equipment are used to support processing of samples
received, either properly analyzing the samples in the field or transporting
them to a laboratory.
Section 162
P/E6.34.11 Analysis results are promptly and accurately communicated to other
emergency response organizations.
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Security Staff
P/E6.35.1 Security procedures of protective forces for carrying out their responsibilities
during response to OEs are promptly, safely, efficiently, and effectively
implemented.
P/E6.35.2 An ICS, in accordance with NIMS/ICS requirements, is implemented for
security emergencies.
P/E6.35.3 Response of protective force personnel and equipment is characterized by
effective command and control.
P/E6.35.4 Access and egress control is quickly and properly maintained for the
facility/site or activity, facility/site areas, impacted areas (i.e., safe
perimeters), and emergency response facilities.
P/E6.35.5 Security practices facilitate timely movement and access of facility/site
operating and response personnel (including offsite personnel) to required
areas during the emergency situations.
P/E6.35.6 Under emergency conditions, material accountability and protection for
Special Nuclear Material (SNM) and other critical DOE assets are handled in
a timely and effective manner.
P/E6.35.7 Common protocol for local law enforcement backup of the onsite security
force is used (e.g., use of deadly force, weapons employment, tactics, code
words, radio frequencies, etc.).
P/E6.35.8 A mutual understanding of authorities and responsibilities, response plans,
utilization of command and control facilities, and terminology enables site
security to effectively coordinate and correlate response activities with other
components of the ERO.
Fire and Rescue
P/E6.36.1 Fire/rescue personnel and equipment are assembled and deployed to the scene
of the emergency in a safe and timely manner.
P/E6.36.2 Fire/rescue personnel take necessary precautions for contamination, exposure,
heat, and personal safety.
P/E6.36.3 Search and rescue operations are carried out in an efficient manner,
coordinating their efforts with medical, industrial hygiene, and health physics
personnel.
P/E6.36.4 Injured personnel are properly extricated, immobilized, and moved during
search and rescue operations.
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P/E6.36.5 When responding onsite, both onsite and offsite fire personnel are outfitted
with the appropriate specialized equipment and supplies specific to the onsite
hazards.
Repair and Maintenance
P/E6.37.1 Facility and field repair and maintenance activities are carried out in a timely
and efficient manner:
P/E6.37.2 Proper tools are available for repair and maintenance activities and the
procurement of replacement parts is expedited.
P/E6.37.3 Emergency work order procedures are used and emergency tagging
(e.g., lockout/tagout or clearance) is implemented.
P/E6.37.4 Repair and maintenance activities include personnel protection and
monitoring as well as coordination with support groups, such as health physics
and chemistry personnel.
Evaluation Criteria [PROGRAMMATIC Functions]:
ERO Staffing
P6.38 ALL personnel who may be needed to perform duties, beyond those specified
by 29 CFR 1910.120 for the first responder awareness level, during a response
to any of a broad range of emergencies defined in the Hazards Survey or
EPHA are members of the ERO.
P6.39 Fully trained personnel are assigned to facility- and site-level ERO positions
to ensure adequate staffing for emergency response.
Section 163
P6.40 All personnel assigned to facility- and site-level ERO positions demonstrate
their proficiency in their assigned positions through periodic participation in
an exercise, an evaluated drill, or an actual response. All primary and
alternate personnel accomplish this participation on a rotating basis.
P6.41 An adequate number of experienced and trained personnel for initial and
ongoing response, including designated alternates, are assigned to each
functional area.
ERO Maintenance
P6.42 To ensure that personnel are available on demand for timely and effective
performance of ERO functions, the ongoing, standby staffing of ERO
emergency facility positions and response teams is effectively accomplished
by:
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a. Using a technique, such as duty-cycle or static roster, to ensure that
qualified personnel are available on-demand and properly assigned.
b. Ensuring that sufficient trained personnel for initial and ongoing response,
including designated alternates, are candidates for call-up in each
functional area.
c. Periodically reviewing ERO rosters for accuracy (e.g., current
qualifications, correct phone number, correct response time etc.).
d. Periodically reviewing and updating ERO personnel qualifications.
P6.43 Communication systems used to activate both on-shift and off-shift
emergency response personnel are periodically tested to ensure their adequacy
and reliability.
D.4.2 Offsite Response Interfaces
Performance Goal:
Effective interfaces are established and maintained to ensure that emergency response
activities are integrated and coordinated with the Federal, Tribal, State, and local
agencies and organizations responsible for emergency response and protection of the
workers, public, and environment, in accordance with the NRP and NIMS.
Evaluation Criteria [RESPONSE Functions]:
Activation
P/E7.1 Interfaces with Federal, Tribal, State, and/or local authorities responsible for
protection of the public and the environment are identified and established.
P/E7.2 Support is requested, as required, from Federal, Tribal, state, and/or local
response agencies/organizations responsible for augmenting site resources in
response to an onsite emergency event.
P/E7.3 Offsite authorities are informed of the availability of assistance from DOE or
NNSA national assets (i.e., RAP, FRMAC, NARAC, AMS, and REAC/TS)
and subsequent requests for support activate the applicable assets.
Communication and Information Exchange
P/E7.4 Methods of communication (e.g., telephone circuits and/or radio channels)
and communication protocols with the offsite agencies/organizations are in
place, identified, and operable.
P/E7.5 Communication capabilities allow effective communication with offsite
officials, the Cognizant Field Element, and the DOE HQ EMT.
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P/E7.6 Offsite officials are briefed upon activation of their respective facilities.
P/E7.7 Offsite agencies/organizations, responsible for emergency response and for
the protection of workers, the public, and the environment, are provided initial
and ongoing information sufficient to perform their respective functions.
P/E7.8 Timely, clear, accurate, and effective information exchange occurs between
the ERO and offsite personnel.
P/E7.9 Mutual understanding of acronyms, code words, conventions, and/or technical
terminology (e.g., units) provides effective information exchange.
P/E7.10 Incoming offsite agency inquiries/concerns are directed to the appropriate
personnel for resolution.
Section 164
Coordination and Integration
P/E7.11 A mutual understanding of capabilities, especially the command and control
system, supports an integrated and effective response.
P/E7.12 An effective working relationship exists between the offsite officials and their
ERO counterparts.
P/E7.13 Coordination and integration with offsite response agencies and organizations
follow established, pre-arranged and documented plans and protocols,
including, responsibilities and authorities, coordination of response,
notifications, facility activations, communications, Emergency Operations
Center (EOC) interfaces, public information activities, and logistic protocols
(e.g., working space and site access)
P/E7.14 Provisions are in place and implemented with State, Tribal, and local agencies
and organizations for coordinating the release of information about the
emergency to the public.
P/E7.15 There is a mutual understanding of response measures to be implemented by
the facility/site in anticipation of the involvement of local and State public
health agencies or agricultural authorities following an actual or potential
release of a biological hazardous material.
Evaluation Criteria [PROGRAMMATIC Functions]:
Maintaining Interfaces
P7.16 An individual (s) with the appropriate authority, knowledge, and training is
responsible for establishing and maintaining ongoing and effective interfaces
with offsite political, technical, security (e.g., local law enforcement), public
health, and emergency services officials.
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P7.17 Agreements to provide mutual assistance to or to receive assistance from
offsite organizations (e.g., hospitals, fire departments) are documented in a
formal memorandum of agreement or memorandum of understanding, which
are accessible in the emergency plan and maintained current through periodic
reviews.
P7.18 Offsite response agencies and organizations are provided with specific
information and/or offered training on the nature and characteristics of the
biological agents and/or toxins present at the DOE/NNSA Biosafety facility.
P7.19 Effective coordination with offsite response agencies and organizations is
accomplished and maintained through routinely scheduled meetings.
P7.20 Through formal agreements, DOE supports offsite agencies under the “good
neighbor” policy, in areas of emergency assistance including: fire, medical,
and hazardous material releases (including, field monitoring resources)
P7.21 Routine coordination and interfaces through training, drills, and “good
neighbor” support ensure that offsite services (e.g., fire and medical, law
enforcement), as indicated in the documented agreements, will be integrated
with onsite resources.
P7.22 Planned response functions to be provided by offsite organizations are
periodically tested and verified.
P7.23 Offsite response organizations are invited to participate in a site-level exercise
at least every 3 years.
P7.24 Organizations which may be needed in a supporting role and/or needed for
long-term support have been identified and pre-designated offsite points-of-
contact, including organization, names, and telephones numbers are
documented, maintained, and available to the response organization.
D.4.3 Emergency Facilities and Equipment
Performance Goal:
Facilities and equipment adequate to support emergency response are available, operable,
and maintained. At a minimum, facilities/sites include an adequate and viable command
center. Equipment includes, but is not limited to, PPE, detectors, and decontamination
equipment.
Section 165
Evaluation Criteria [RESPONSE Functions]:
General
P/E8.1 Facilities and equipment adequate to support emergency response are
available, operable and maintained.
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Facilities
P/E8.2 A facility is available for use as a command center by the ED, the EMT, and
other members of the ERO during an emergency response.
P/E8.3 Characteristics of the dedicated command center, and other auxiliary facilities,
are adequate to reliably support the designated functions and assignments.
P/E8.4 As required, facilities are available to accommodate classified discussions at
the appropriate clearance levels.
P/E8.5 Provisions are established for use of an alternative location if the primary
command center is not available.
P/E8.6 Facility systems and installed equipment (e.g., HVAC, sanitation, lighting,
radiation monitors, computer systems, communications, and visual displays)
are adequate to support facility functions and level of staffing.
P/E8.7 Emergency response facilities use backup or alternate power supplies in the
event of loss of power.
P/E8.8 As necessary, conversion of facilities to response facilities for the emergency
is accomplished in a timely and efficient manner.
P/E8.9 Command center access control is adequate and results in the efficient and
timely identification of assigned staff.
Equipment
P/E8.10 The capability to notify employees of an emergency to facilitate the safe
evacuation of employees from the work place, immediate work area, or both is
available.
P/E8.11 Provisions are established to ensure operational compatibility between facility
response capabilities and DOE or NNSA assets.
P/E8.12 Adequate PPE, and other emergency equipment and supplies are readily
available and operable to meet the needs determined by the results of the
EPHA.
P/E8.13 Actual function(s) and operating characteristics of specific equipment
adequately support the intended function(s) during emergency response.
P/E8.14 Secure communication equipment is available to support classified
discussions and transmittal of classified documents/reports.
P/E8.15 Equipment needed during the emergency response functioned as expected and
intended (or was repaired or obtained in a timely manner), including: current
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reference materials (e.g., maps, facility drawings); decisional aids (including
computers); area and process monitors; public address system; PPE; portable
monitoring instruments and personnel monitoring devices; siren and alarm
systems; decontamination equipment; communication equipment.
Evaluation Criteria – [PROGRAMMATIC Functions]:
Facilities
P8.14 Designated response facilities, especially multi-use facilities, are adequately
maintained to ensure timely activation and availability to support an
emergency response.
Equipment
P8.15 Inventories of all emergency equipment and supplies are maintained with the
equipment location identified.
P8.16 Periodic inspections, operational checks, calibration, preventive maintenance
and testing of equipment and supplies are carried out as required in
accordance with manufacturer’s instructions or industry standards.
P8.17 Communication systems with DOE HQ, Cognizant Field Elements, and
offsite organizations are periodically tested.
P8.18 Communication systems used to activate both on-shift and off-shift
emergency response personnel are tested and maintained regularly.
D.4.4 Categorization and Classification
Performance Goal:
Section 166
Major unplanned or abnormal events or conditions that: involve or affect DOE/NNSA
facilities/site and activities by causing or having the potential to cause serious health and
safety or environmental impacts; require resources from outside the immediate/affected
area or local event scene to supplement the initial response; and, require time-urgent
notifications to initiate response activities at locations beyond the event scene, are
recognized promptly, categorized, and declared as OEs.
In general, to be considered an OE, an event or condition involving the uncontrolled
release of a hazardous material will: immediately threaten or endanger personnel who are
in close proximity of the event; have the potential for dispersal beyond the immediate
vicinity of the release in quantities that threaten the health and safety of onsite personnel
or the public in collocated facilities, activities, and/or offsite; and have a potential rate of
dispersal sufficient to require a time-urgent response to implement protective actions for
workers and the public. In addition to being categorized as OEs, events involving the
actual or potential airborne release of (or loss of control over) hazardous materials from
an onsite facility or activity also require prompt and accurate classification as an Alert,
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Site Area Emergency, or General Emergency, based on health effects parameters
measured or estimated at specific receptor locations (e.g., facility and site boundaries)
and compared with PACs. Predetermined conservative onsite protective actions and
offsite protective action recommendations are associated with the classification of these
OEs.
Evaluation Criteria [RESPONSE Functions]:
Process
P/E9.1 Authority and responsibility for categorizing an event/condition, and if
necessary, determining the emergency classification, is clearly defined,
recognized, and understood by ERO personnel.
P/E9.2 The designated (authorized) individual with the responsibility for
categorization and classification makes the determination(s).
P/E9.3 Recognition/categorization/classification process of OEs is effectively
integrated with existing operations, management, emergency response,
reporting activities, and the security classification scheme.
Categorization
P/E9.4 Categorization of abnormal events/conditions as OEs is accomplished
accurately using facility/site- or activity-specific criteria.
P/E9.5 An OE event is categorized as promptly as possible, but no later than
15-minutes after event recognition/identification/discovery.
P/E9.6 The set of facility/site- or activity-specific criteria is readily accessible to the
responsible decision maker.
P/E9.7 Criteria for categorizing OEs are clear, straightforward, usable, and
unambiguous to the decision maker, and stated in terms of readily available
indications or observable conditions.
P/E9.8 If the event or condition is categorized as an OE involving an airborne release
of (or loss of control over) hazardous materials (i.e., from a facility/site), the
decision maker recognizes the requirement to promptly classify the event.
This does not apply to biological hazardous materials.
P/E9.9 A tool (i.e., an EAL-like tool) for recognizing and categorizing biological
OEs, based on recognition factors identified in the EPHA, is part of the
DOE/NNSA emergency management program for Biosafety facilities.
Default initial protective actions are associated with each biological OE.
Section 167
P/E9.10 An abnormal event/condition, categorized as an OE, is only downgraded
(e.g., to Significance Level 1-4) if the original categorization was incorrect. A
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properly categorized OE remains in effect until the emergency response is
terminated.
Classification
P/E9.11 Classification of an OE involving the actual or potential airborne release of (or
loss of control over) hazardous material is accomplished promptly and
accurately using a current set of a facility/site-specific EALs. [Classification
does not apply to biological hazardous materials.]
P/E9.12 Facility/site-specific EALs are applicable to the spectrum of potential OEs
identified by the EPHA.
P/E9.13 Appropriate facility/site-specific EALs are readily accessible to the
responsible decision maker.
P/E9.14 Classification of an OE involving the actual or potential airborne release of
hazardous material as Alert, Site Area Emergency, or General Emergency is
based on the distance at which estimated consequences exceed the applicable
health effect threshold [i.e., PAC for the specific hazardous material released].
P/E9.15 EALs for classifying OEs are clear, straight forward, usable, and
unambiguous to the decision maker.
P/E9.16 EALs for classifying OEs provide for early recognition, are reliable,
redundant, and internally consistent, and are comprehensive and anticipatory
of potential/future consequences.
a. EALs are stated in terms of readily available indications or observable
conditions.
b. Facility/site-specific EALs are developed and approved for the spectrum
of OEs resulting in the actual or potential airborne release of (or loss of
control over) hazardous material OEs, as analyzed in the EPHA.
c. Facility/site EALs provide for classifying events on the basis of measured
or predicted hazardous material consequences at specific receptor
locations (i.e., facility and site boundaries).
P/E9.17 If a suspected release of (or loss of control over) hazardous material fails to
meet or exceed an EAL, then a common sense, conservative assessment of the
indications or observable conditions leads to an initial default estimate of the
classification of the emergency event/condition using the discretionary EAL
(i.e., a discretionary EAL is included in the EAL set to compensate for
possible incompleteness and to ensure that a decision can be made rapidly
based on the current understanding of the situation).
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P/E9.18 Associated with a specific OE event EAL, the decision maker obtains default
(i.e., pre-determined), conservative Protective Actions (PAs), for immediate
implementation onsite, and Protective Action Recommendations (PARs), for
immediate recommendation offsite.
P/E9.19 The current classification is modified (i.e., upgraded) based on continuous
monitoring for event degradation or a reassessment that indicates that the
event is more severe than originally perceived.
a. An OE is reclassified at a lower classification if the original classification
decision was in error (e.g., the decision maker used the wrong EAL or
received incorrect information).
b. A properly classified OE remains in effect until the emergency response is
terminated.
P/E9.20 Site-wide, non-facility-specific EALs are used to classify events such as:
terrorist threats, major natural phenomena, external events that can affect site
operations, etc.
Evaluation Criteria [PROGRAMMATIC Functions]:
Section 168
P9.21 OE categorization criteria and EALs are reviewed and tested regularly against
a range of initiating conditions and emergency event/condition scenarios to
validate the indicated emergency categorization/classification.
D.4.5 Notifications and Communications
Performance Goal:
Initial emergency notifications are made promptly, accurately and effectively to workers
and emergency response personnel/organizations, appropriate DOE/NNSA elements, and
other Federal, Tribal, State, and local organizations and authorities. Accurate and timely
follow-up notifications are made when conditions change, when the emergency
classification (as an Alert, Site Area Emergency, General Emergency) is upgraded, or
when the emergency is terminated. Continuous, effective, and accurate communication
among response components and/or organizations is reliably maintained throughout an
OE.
Evaluation Criteria:
Notifications
P/E10.1 For OEs, prompt initial emergency notifications are accurately and efficiently
made to workers and emergency response personnel/organizations, including
DOE or NNSA Cognizant Field Element EOCs and the HQ Operations
Center; other Federal, Tribal, State, and local response organizations; as well
as all other appropriate organizations and authorities.
DOE G 151.1-3 D-39
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P/E10.2 Tribal, State, and local officials, the Cognizant Field Element EOC, and the
HQ Operations Center are notified within 15 minutes of classification of an
OE as an Alert, Site Area Emergency, or General Emergency; all other
organizations are notified within 30 minutes.
P/E10.3 The Cognizant Field Element EOC and the Headquarters Operations Center
are notified within 30 minutes of the declaration of an OE that does not
require classification; local, State, and Tribal, and all other organizations are
notified within 30 minutes or as established in mutual agreements.
P/E10.4 Points of contact for emergency notifications are accurate and readily
available to response personnel.
P/E10.5 Emergency notifications to the HQ Operations Center consist of a phone call
providing as much information as is known at the time. The same information
is also provided by e-mail or a fax either immediately prior to or following the
phone call. Information for initial notification includes as much as possible of
the following:
(a) An OE has been declared and, if appropriate, the classification of the
emergency;
(b) Description of the emergency;
(c) Date and time the emergency was discovered;
(d) Damage and casualties;
(e) Whether the emergency has stopped other facility/site operations or
program activities;
(f) Protective actions taken and/or recommended;
(g) Notifications made;
(h) Weather conditions at the scene of the emergency;
(i) Level of any media interest at the scene of the emergency or at the
facility/site; and
(j) Contact information for the DOE or NNSA on-scene point of contact.
P/E10.6 A rapid notification and recall system is used to make initial and follow-up
notifications to primary and alternate response staff. The system provides for
authentication and feedback indicating unsuccessful contact.
P/E10.7 Follow-up notifications use pre-arranged and standardized content and format
that supports the inclusion of critical information concerning: the nature of the
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event, description and status; key times; classification and release status (as
required); meteorology; protective actions; affected facility; and, notification
authority.
Section 169
P/E10.8 Follow-up notifications are made when conditions change or when the
emergency classification is upgraded or the emergency is terminated.
P/E10.9 The ED or designee personally approves release of notification information.
P/E10.10 Emergency status reports (also referred to as situation reports or SITREPs) are
forwarded to the next-higher EMT on a continuing basis throughout the OE.
Communications
P/E10.11 A formally established communication chain for reporting and notification
within the facility, site-wide, and to offsite organizations is properly followed.
P/E10.12 Installed public address and siren systems adequately accomplish the
notifications of workers and onsite or neighboring public.
a. Installed building and area alarms or public address systems alert facility
personnel to emergency conditions.
b. Systems are in place for notification of onsite workers and public present
onsite but outside the immediate vicinity of the affected facility.
c. Where agreements with offsite agencies dictate, systems alert the public
outside the site boundary.
P/E10.13 Communications systems are in place to support management and tracking of
evacuation of facility personnel, personnel accountability and assembly.
P/E10.14 Installed voice communications systems adequately accomplish notification
and information exchange processes.
a. Reliable equipment exists for communications with emergency
organizations and response personnel.
b. Dedicated primary and backup voice communications links are provided
between key emergency response facilities and sufficient non-dedicated
voice communication links are provided to access offsite organizations.
c. Mobile and commercial phone lines are available.
P/E10.15 Continuous, effective, and accurate communications among response
components and/or organizations (e.g., event scene responders, emergency
managers, response facilities, and workers who have taken protective actions)
is reliably established and maintained throughout an OE.
DOE G 151.1-3 D-41
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Documentation/Reports
P/E10.16 Notifications and key communications are properly documented and displayed
in emergency response facilities.
P/E10.17 A formal system is in place to record, sequence, validate, and track the flow
and chronology of emergency information.
P/E10.18 Logs are maintained and other record-keeping methods utilized to support
post-event analysis, report production, and a legally defensible chronology of
notification and communications activities.
P/E10.19 All reports and releases are reviewed for classified or Unclassified Controlled
Nuclear Information (UCNI) prior to being provided to personnel without
security clearances, entered into unclassified databases, or transmitted using
non-secure communications equipment.
P/E10.20 Following termination of the emergency response, and in conjunction with the
Final Occurrence Report, each activated EMT develops and submits a final
report on the emergency response to the ED for submission to the Associate
Administrator, Office of Emergency Operations.
D.4.6 Consequence Assessment
Performance Goal:
Estimates of onsite and offsite consequences of actual or potential releases of hazardous
materials are computed and assessed correctly and in a timely manner throughout the
emergency. Consequence assessments are: integrated with event classification and
protective action decision-making; incorporated with facility and field indications and
measurements; and coordinated with offsite agencies.
Section 170
Evaluation Criteria [RESPONSE Functions]:
Process
P/E11.1 A Timely Initial Assessment (TIA) of the actual or potential consequences of
an emergency is performed effectively and efficiently, shortly after initial
classification, using any available real-time event and meteorological data to
provide an event-specific estimate of consequences.
P/E11.2 Timely in-depth assessments of event consequences are made continuously
throughout an emergency.
a. Consequence estimates performed by hand and/or from computer
calculations are accomplished in a timely and efficient manner throughout
the emergency to adequately assess the actual or potential onsite and
offsite consequences.
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b. Assessments are updated when there are actual and projected changes in
facility status, release conditions, or meteorology, or when there are data
from field monitoring teams.
c. Different models, assumptions, and input data are used, as available, to
add to the understanding of the event and its consequences.
d. Indicators (e.g., system pressures, flow rates, radiation levels, release
rates, etc.), necessary to continually assess the consequences of the
emergency events/conditions, are identified and monitored.
P/E11.3 Consequence assessment process is integrated with processes for categorizing
an event as an emergency, determining the appropriate emergency class,
protective action decision-making, and locating and recovering materials.
P/E11.4 Provisions are made for requesting support from the DOE radiological
emergency response assets (e.g., AMS or NARAC) to assist in accident and
consequence assessments as well as to estimate the integrated impact of a
hazardous materials release to onsite and offsite populations.
P/E11.5 Facilities have access to NARAC or have procedures in place to activate or
request NARAC capabilities:
a. If a facility has the potential for an OE classified as a General Emergency,
connectivity to NARAC capabilities is established and procedures are in
place to use the NARAC capability effectively as part of near real-time
consequence assessment activities for the mode (primary, backup,
corroborating) selected by the facility.
b. If a facility has the potential for an OE classified as a Site Area
Emergency, procedures are in place to activate or request NARAC
capabilities and to use those capabilities as part of near real-time
consequence assessment activities.
P/E11.6 For facilities with access to NARAC, or that have procedures in place to
activate or request NARAC capabilities, meteorological data and information
on source terms for actual or potential releases of hazardous materials to the
atmosphere are available or can be made available to NARAC in a timely
manner to facilitate near real-time computations.
P/E11.7 Natural phenomena (e.g., tornados, floods, severe wind, ice, or snow), which
may result in or exacerbate an emergency condition at the facility, operation,
and/or activity, are monitored.
P/E11.8 A formal document control system is implemented during an emergency to
record, sequence, validate, and track the flow and chronology of information.
DOE G 151.1-3 D-43
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P/E11.9 A primary function of the consequence assessment process for releases of
biological agents, either observed or unobserved, involves the confirmation
that a release to the environment from a biosafety facility has occurred.
Consequence Calculations
Section 171
P/E11.10 Tools used in consequence assessment, such as system hardware and software
for meteorological monitoring and dose modeling, etc., are available, reliable,
calibrated, and consistent with DOE and industry standards.
P/E11.11 The type of hazard and source term for the release of a hazardous material is
successfully determined either with available and reliable facility system
parameters and effluent monitors or with data that is not normally monitored
and measured.
a. Data for source term estimates is available from reliable sources
(e.g., stack or process flow rates, concentrations, tank volumes, and
containment or process building leak rates).
b. Methodology for determining the type of hazard and source term is
compatible with instrumentation/monitor values (e.g., engineering units,
range, and conversion factors).
c. Instruments used for detection of chemical releases to the atmosphere have
sufficient range to accurately determine the concentration of the released
chemical(s) in air versus the chemical Protective Action Criterion (PAC).
d. Indicators that are not continually monitored (e.g., chemical analyses of
fluids, contamination levels, etc.,) are sampled to identify the particular
indicators to be continually monitored to assess the consequences of
potential events, in addition to occurring events, by identifying trends,
relationships, etc., that would indicate degrading conditions.
P/E11.12 Adequate meteorological information is obtained for use in transport and
dispersion calculations to project the consequences of the hazardous material
release to the environment, onsite and offsite.
P/E11.13 Onsite and offsite receptors of interest are identified quickly and are readily
available to emergency managers (e.g., receptor locations at the facility and
site boundaries, to or beyond the EPZ boundary, and populations with special
needs).
P/E11.14 Consequence estimates for actual or potential releases of hazardous materials:
a. Are made in a timely manner, efficiently, and accurately (i.e., consistent
with the accuracy of the input data);
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b. Account for releases from ground level and elevated release points, or
monitored and unmonitored pathways; make use of post-accident analysis
results and field monitoring team data, as appropriate;
c. Include calculations of radioactive dose or toxic chemical exposure for the
external, inhalation, and ingestion pathways, as appropriate;
d. Are provided for receptor locations at the facility and site boundaries, to or
beyond the EPZ boundary, and for populations with special needs; and
e. Use the appropriate facility-specific PAC, which is identified and readily
available to consequence assessment teams for estimating health effects at
a specified distance from the event.
Field Measurements
P/E11.15 Field teams receive initial, conservative estimates of projected consequences
in a timely manner prior to being dispatched for sampling, monitoring, and
plume tracking activities.
P/E11.16 Field sampling and monitoring activities are used to verify, update, and refine
the source term and projected consequences through coordination with those
responsible for consequence estimates.
P/E11.17 Field teams (i.e., radiological and non-radiological field teams) successfully
accomplish field monitoring and plume tracking within and beyond the EPZ,
and, similarly, verify the absence of consequences in specific areas.
Section 172
P/E11.18 As available, data from environmental monitoring programs is used to support
consequence assessment, including data from installed air monitors, area
radiation monitors, and in-plant surveys.
Coordination
P/E11.19 Effective coordination is established with Federal, Tribal, State, and local
organizations to estimate the impact of the release on the public and the
environment, locate and track hazardous materials released, and locate and
recover materials, especially those with national security implications.
P/E11.20 Field monitoring and data collection by facility and site teams, State and local
teams, and Federal teams is coordinated to facilitate exchanges and correlation
of information.
P/E11.21 Assessments and analyses are clearly communicated to offsite emergency
management decision makers.
DOE G 151.1-3 D-45
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a. Engineering units used in facility/site consequence assessment are
understood and compatible with the units used by offsite emergency
response authorities.
b. Differences in modeling methods are well understood by onsite and offsite
emergency response personnel.
Evaluation Criteria [PROGRAMMATIC Functions]:
P11.22 A formal Quality Assurance Program is implemented and maintained for
control of the tools used in consequence assessment, such as the
meteorological monitoring system hardware and software and dose modeling
hardware and software.
D.4.7 Protective Actions and Reentry
Performance Goal:
Protective actions are promptly and effectively implemented or recommended for
implementation, as needed, to minimize the consequences of emergencies and to protect
the health and safety of workers and the public. Protective actions are implemented
individually or in combination to reduce exposures to a wide range of hazardous
materials. Protective actions must be reassessed throughout an emergency and modified
as conditions change. Reentry activities must be planned, coordinated, and accomplished
properly and safely.
Evaluation Criteria:
Protective Action Decision-Making
P/E12.1 All emergency response activities, including search and rescue, incident
mitigation activities, field monitoring, and reentry, are planned and controlled
with a focus on health and safety of emergency responders within pre-planned
protective action exposure guidelines.
P/E12.2 Applicable PACs are used in protective action (e.g., sheltering, evacuation)
decision-making for the actual or potential release of hazardous materials to
the environment.
a. For radioactive materials, Protective Action Guides (PAGs), promulgated
by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), are used.
b. Listed in order of preference, PACs used for toxic chemicals are: Acute
Exposure Guideline Levels (AEGLs), promulgated by the EPA;
Emergency Response Planning Guidelines (ERPGs), published by the
American Industrial Hygiene Association; and Temporary Emergency
Exposure Limits (TEELs), developed by DOE.
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c. For hazardous biological materials, PACs are considered exceeded and
immediate protective actions are required for any actual or potential
release of agents or toxins outside of secondary containment barriers.
Long-term PACs are specified by State or local public health officials.
P/E12.3 Protective actions reflect a conservative assessment of the level of health
effect and extent of potentially affected/impacted area and populations.
Section 173
P/E12.4 The notification and implementation of onsite PAs and notification of offsite
PARs are made in a timely, efficient, and unambiguous manner confirmed and
monitored by the ERO.
P/E12.5 Initial onsite PAs and offsite PARs are linked to facility-specific OE event
classification criteria [i.e., EALs]
P/E12.6 Initial onsite PAs and offsite PARs are linked to facility-specific biological
OE event recognition and categorization criteria.
P/E12.7 Protective actions are implemented individually or in combination to reduce
exposures to a wide range of hazardous materials.
P/E12.8 Modifications to initial protective actions are developed and implemented
based on updated and refined data generated from the continuous consequence
assessment process.
P/E12.9 Decision makers consider other possible protective actions for onsite and
offsite populations, such as thyroid blocking agent, chemical neutralizing
agents, water and food intervention levels, transportation route access
controls, and impromptu respiratory protection.
P/E12.10 Onsite PA decision-making is coordinated with site organizations such as
security and safety.
a. Security and law enforcement measures implemented during a physical
attack that impact worker and responder access and egress
(e.g., lockdown) are coordinated with emergency management and site
security.
b. The identification of necessary PPE is coordinated with emergency
management and safety professionals, including industrial safety,
industrial hygiene, health physics, and fire protection engineering.
Onsite - Protective Actions (PAs)
P/E12.11 Plans are followed for the timely evacuation and/or sheltering of onsite
personnel, along with provisions to account for employees after emergency
evacuation has been completed.
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P/E12.12 Emergency evacuations for site personnel:
a. Evacuation route selection and logistical details are implemented promptly
and efficiently;
b. Multiple evacuation egress routes provide options based upon release type
and wind direction;
c. Evacuation routes avoid hazards, are familiar to site personnel, and are
coordinated with offsite authorities;
d. The reception/relocation center is sufficient to accommodate the expected
number of personnel; and
e. Adequate personnel are assigned to control evacuees and are kept aware of
changes in onsite protective action modifications.
P/E12.13 Accountability in emergency evacuations for site personnel:
a. Trained and assigned individuals assume and carry out responsibilities for
building or facility accountability in the event of personnel evacuation;
b. Initial accounting for all evacuated personnel is completed in a timely
manner to support initial search and rescue activities; and
c. Accountability is continued to support ongoing search and rescue
activities following an emergency evacuation.
P/E12.14 Provisions are implemented to protect workers, covered by 29 CFR 1910.120,
involved in response and cleanup. This includes measures to ensure that
security, fire, medical, and other response personnel are protected from
exposure to hazards during the course of their movements while supporting
response.
P/E12.15 Habitability of onsite facilities, including emergency facilities, is periodically
determined using dosimetry and survey instruments, and relocation/evacuation
measures are taken, if necessary.
P/E12.16 Actions that may be taken to increase the effectiveness of protective actions
(i.e., HVAC shutdown during sheltering) are implemented in a timely and
efficient manner.
Section 174
P/E12.17 Access to and egress from actual or potentially contaminated areas, or the site,
is monitored and controlled.
a. People, vehicles, and equipment are effectively monitored before leaving
contaminated areas and the site, if possible, and also upon arrival at
designated decontamination, relocation, or assembly areas.
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b. Sufficient staffing and equipment are available to activate designated
monitoring locations.
P/E12.18 Emergency facilities, equipment, personnel, and implemented methods and
criteria provide effective decontamination of personnel and equipment for
various levels and types of contamination (e.g., skin contamination).
Offsite - Protective Action Recommendations (PARs)
P/E12.19 Timely PARs, such as sheltering, evacuation, relocation, and food control, are
made to appropriate Tribal, State, or local authorities.
P/E12.20 Candidate PARs are coordinated with offsite authorities and well-defined
geographic areas for sheltering and evacuation, special needs areas or special
populations, and evacuation routes are readily available.
P/E12.21 Ingestion pathway PARs are formulated, when appropriate, and
communicated to offsite authorities.
Reentry Activities
P/E12.22 Reentry and approval of extended dose or exposure limits is within the
authority and responsibility of the ED.
P/E 12.23 Facility personnel estimate exposure to hazardous materials to protect workers
and the public during reentry and recovery activities.
P/E12.24 Reentry activities are performed safely and efficiently, with specific team
composition (e.g., minimum of one medically trained member) and equipment
that accomplishes the mission.
P/E12.25 Reentry planning addresses the following: conduct of operations during
reentry; range of hazardous materials which may be encountered; hazard
control procedures; type and nature of potential safety failures; guidelines for
prioritization of reentry activities; team selection, personnel safety, job
planning, communications during reentry; record keeping; and provisions for
backup to every reentry.
P/E12.26 Reentry planning includes contingency planning to ensure the safety of
reentry personnel, such as planning for the rescue of reentry teams. The
reentry plan must include a hazards/safety briefing, consistent with Federal,
Tribal, State, and local laws and regulations, for all individuals involved in
reentry.
P/E12.27 Exposure criteria are established and available for each type of reentry
activity, including search and rescue, and repair. 10 CFR 835, Subpart N,
limits are observed for radiological events, such as lifesaving, protection of
DOE G 151.1-3 D-49
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health and property, and recovery of deceased. Volunteers are used for high-
risk situations.
P/E12.28 Responders involved in reentry receive pre-reentry hazards/safety briefings
prior to emergency response activities and post-reentry briefings consistent
with Federal, Tribal, State, and local laws and regulations.
Record Keeping
P/E12.29 Records of personnel exposures to hazardous materials (radioactive, chemical,
and biological) are effectively controlled, monitored, and maintained.
P/E12.30 Names of individuals surveyed, the extent of any contamination found, the
instruments used and the methods employed, and results of any
decontamination efforts are recorded.
P/E12.31 Contaminated individuals are scheduled for follow-up actions
(e.g., subsequent whole body counts and/or bio-assays).
D.4.8 Emergency Medical Support
Section 175
Performance Goal:
Medical support for contaminated or injured personnel is planned and promptly and
effectively implemented. Arrangements with offsite medical facilities to transport,
accept, and treat contaminated, injured personnel are documented.
Evaluation Criteria [RESPONSE Functions]:
General
P/E13.1 Provisions for response to emergency medical situations and medical
treatment of injured personnel are implemented.
P/E13.2 Medical treatment is provided for mass casualty situations
(Cf. DOE O 440.1A).
P/E13.3 Onsite personnel who respond to a medical emergency show proficiency in
first aid or emergency medical treatment comparable with that of any offsite
team employed and similarly equipped.
P/E13.4 Employee medical records and treatment history are readily available and
accessed as needed.
P/E13.5 Onsite and offsite coordination:
a. Treatment protocols are coordinated among onsite and offsite mutual aid
response units.
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b. Offsite and onsite medical support services and capabilities are effectively
integrated.
c. Standing orders/protocols ensure that patients are transported to the
receiving facility best equipped to provide the appropriate level of care for
the patient’s condition.
d. Onsite and offsite medical communications systems are compatible and
effective.
P/E13.6 Ambulance crews initiate communications with receiving medical facilities
while en route.
P/E13.7 Procedures are in place in biosafety facilities that allow rapid and effective
communications among public health officials, emergency rooms, law
enforcement, and emergency management officials about unusual biological
events.
P/E13.8 During an event involving the release of hazardous biological material,
medical personnel assume the role of primary responders. Medical personnel
assist in release detection/confirmation, consequence assessment, and
development of protective actions.
P/E13.9 Security clearance issues do not impede medical treatment or transport of
injured personnel.
Contaminated Injured
P/E13.10 Medical support for contaminated or injured personnel is promptly and
effectively implemented.
P/E13.11 Appropriate recognition and emphasis is focused on medical treatment versus
radioactive or chemical contamination for contaminated/injured personnel;
proper and effective decisions are made.
P/E13.12 Onsite and offsite medical facilities are outfitted and staffed to utilize
specialized equipment and supplies specific to onsite hazards.
P/E13.13 Immediate, effective onsite first aid and emergency medical treatment is
provided for injured workers, including those with hazardous material
contamination:
a. Onsite radiation protection, industrial hygiene personnel, and infectious
disease specialists are properly equipped to assist medical and Emergency
Medical Service (EMS) staff in performing patient survey,
decontamination, contamination and exposure control, urine and fecal
analysis, and in-vivo counting methods.
DOE G 151.1-3 D-51
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b. Proper contamination control procedures are implemented in handling
injured and contaminated personnel; and
c. Decontamination facilities are available and adequately equipped.
P/E13.14 Personnel, vehicles, facilities, and equipment are adequate for treating and
transporting injured, contaminated, or exposed individuals in a safe and
effective manner.
a. Onsite and offsite medical and emergency medical technician personnel
use required equipment for assessing patient conditions, including PPE
and medical service protective clothing;
Section 176
b. Exposure and contamination information is sent with victims, and expert
technical support is provided to the receiving hospital(s); and
c. The site takes responsibility for removal of contaminated material in
offsite medical facilities or vehicles.
P/E13.15 Additional medical assistance and treatment procedures, and associated points
of contacts, are accessed, as necessary, including: search and rescue resources,
REAC/TS assistance, Public Health Service coordination, long-term
longitudinal health testing, chelation, handling contaminated remains, and
other sophisticated medical procedures.
Evaluation Criteria [PROGRAMMATIC Functions]:
P13.16 Arrangements with offsite medical facilities to transport, accept, and treat
contaminated, injured personnel are established, documented, and periodically
reviewed.
P13.17 The sharing of patient information between onsite and offsite health care
providers during emergencies, consistent with the requirements of Health
Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (42 USC 300), is
coordinated in advance.
P13.18 Onsite and offsite medical personnel are offered information and training on
facility-specific hazardous materials and offered opportunities for
participation in drills and exercises.
P13.19 Biosafety surveillance plans for detecting unusual medical events are
established onsite and specific responsibilities for surveillance and reporting
are identified. The veterinary profession is involved in surveillance activities,
as appropriate. Key indicators and medical surveillance baselines for
agent/toxin are effectively implemented.
P13.20 An information system is installed at biosafety facilities for patient
monitoring, management, and tracking.
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P13.21 Key indicators and medical surveillance baselines for facility-specific
agents/toxins are provided to offsite medical surveillance programs for
detecting unusual medical events that may have resulted from a release at a
DOE/NNSA biosafety facility.
D.4.9 Emergency Public Information
Performance Goal:
Emergency Public Information (EPI) provides accurate, candid, and timely information to
workers, news media, and the public during an emergency to establish facts and avoid
speculation. EPI efforts are coordinated with DOE and NNSA (if appropriate); Tribal,
State, and local governments; and Federal emergency response organizations, as
appropriate. Workers and the public are informed of emergency plans and planned
protective actions before emergencies.
Evaluation Criteria [RESPONSE Functions]:
General
P/E14.1 Information distributed by EPI to workers, site personnel, and the public
during an OE is:
a. Accurate, candid, and understandable;
b. Current and timely;
c. Provided to ensure the health and safety of workers and the public;
d. Provided to establish facts, and avoid rumors and speculation;
e. Responsive to public concern and information needs; and
f. Consistent with the requirements of the Freedom of Information Act and
the Privacy Act.
P/E14.2 The Cognizant Field Element public affairs director or his designee,
responsible for EPI review and dissemination, approves initial news releases
or public statements.
P/E14.3 Following initial news releases and public statements, updates are coordinated
with the DOE/NNSA Cognizant Field Element public affairs director and the
HQ ED.
Functions/Staffing
P/E14.4 Functions and staff of the EPI organization:
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Section 177
a. Functions of the EPI during an OE response include information
collection, coordination, production, dissemination, and monitoring and
analysis of media coverage, public concerns, and information needs.
b. Functions and staffing are consistent with the nature, severity, duration,
and public and media perception of the event or condition.
c. Trained spokespersons provide support in media interface.
d. A news writer and other trained personnel provide support in media
services, public inquiry, media inquiry, management and administrative
services, and media monitoring.
P/E14.5 Rumors and misinformation are detected, controlled, and corrected; accurate
information disclaiming rumors and correcting misinformation is incorporated
in media briefings and press releases as necessary.
P/E14.6 Communications with the media and public are timely and responsive to
public concerns.
a. Information released to the public through the news media regarding the
emergency is accurate and relevant.
b. An initial press statement is released as soon as possible, but within one
hour of event categorization.
c. Frequency and content of news conferences are consistent with
information needs of the public and media.
d. Press briefings are held with regular frequency and whenever new or
breaking information is available concerning emergency conditions,
protective actions, or response.
e. Technical briefers are utilized and are knowledgeable and effective in
communicating with the news media.
P/E14.7 EPI staff is proactive in obtaining emergency information from the facility
command center or EOC.
P/E14.8 Medical personnel associated with the biosafety program are involved in the
development of materials to be used in news releases to ensure that
characterization of the hazard is conveyed accurately.
P/E14.9 Public announcements in areas involving classified information or
unclassified controlled information:
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a. The appropriate official (e.g., DC) reviews news releases or
announcements before release to the public to ensure that no information
is provided that may present a security risk.
b. Sufficient publicly releasable information is provided to adequately
explain the emergency response and protective actions required for the
health and safety of workers and the public.
Joint Information Center (JIC)
P/E14.10 The JIC is established, directed, and coordinated by a senior DOE or NNSA
Cognizant Field Office public affairs manager or alternate.
P/E14.11 The designated JIC location:
a. Is available, equipped, maintained and controlled to accommodate
members of the news media, DOE, contractor, and offsite agency
representatives, and to facilitate the preparation and coordination of
emergency information release to the public through the news media.
b. Provides adequate space, equipment, communications lines, security
provisions, and information resources to accommodate personnel (both
media and staff) and to accomplish required functions.
P/E14.12 JIC functions and staffing:
a. The JIC is adequately staffed with personnel trained to serve as
spokesperson and news writer.
b. Persons with technical expertise related to the emergency and with
spokesperson training are assigned to the JIC.
c. Personnel are assigned to the JIC to provide support in media services,
public inquiry, media inquiry, JIC management and administrative
activities, and media monitoring.
d. The JIC supports response to public inquiries in a timely manner.
Section 178
e. The JIC has provisions in place to detect, correct, and control rumors and
misinformation.
P/E14.13 An alternate JIC is available in the event that the primary JIC becomes
uninhabitable.
P/E14.14 JIC access control is adequate and there is a means to readily identify media
representatives and staff.
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P/E14.15 Prepared relevant information concerning affected facilities, emergency plans,
hazards, and logistics is provided to news media in the JIC.
P/E14.16 Appropriate visual aids are available and utilized for briefing news media
regarding events, impacted areas, consequences and protective actions.
Offsite Coordination
P/E14.17 The management team and outside agency representatives effectively, openly,
and readily share and coordinate information.
P/E14.18 An EPI communications system is established among DOE/NNSA HQ, the
Cognizant Field Element, and on scene locations.
P/E14.19 Public information functions and efforts during the emergency are coordinated
with DOE HQ, other Federal agencies, and Tribal, State, and local
government organizations and are a part of Federal emergency response plans,
as appropriate.
P/E14.20 Information (written and verbal) that is to be released to the news media is
coordinated with DOE, and other Federal, state, tribal and local response
organizations, as appropriate.
P/E14.21 The DOE/NNSA Cognizant Field Office public affairs director and HQ ED
are notified of all DOE/NNSA emergency public information actions. These
notifications are made as soon as practicable.
P/E14.22 A public information officer is assigned to a facility/site or activity emergency
response team deployed offsite to provide mutual aid to a significant response.
Evaluation Criteria [PROGRAMMATIC Functions]:
P14.23 An EPI Plan, which can cover more than one facility on a site, provides the
following:
a. Identification of personnel, resources, facilities, and coordination
procedures necessary to provide emergency public information;
b. Training and exercises for personnel who will interact with the media;
c. A methodology for informing workers and the public of DOE/NNSA
emergency plans and protective actions, before and during emergencies;
d. Coordination of public information efforts with local, State, and Tribal
governments, and Federal emergency response plans, as appropriate.
P14.24 The EPI program has provisions for establishing a media center to operate as
the single source of information during an OE. [A media center is a
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designated location where the DOE/NNSA Cognizant Field Element and
contractor personnel can conduct the necessary briefings and press
conferences regarding an OE at the facility.]
P14.25 For Hazardous Material Program facilities/sites, the EPI program has
provisions to establish a Joint Information Center (JIC), where multiple
jurisdictions gather, process, and disseminate public information during an
OE.
P14.26 The EPI program is integrated with facility/site emergency management
program plans and procedures.
P14.27 Prior to emergencies, workers and site personnel are informed of emergency
response plans, response capabilities, and planned protective actions.
P14.28 Continuing education is provided to the area news media for the purpose of
acquainting media with the facility, management personnel, facility/site
hazards, emergency plans, and points of contact.
Section 179
P14.29 In coordination with Tribal, State and local governments, information is
disseminated periodically to the public regarding facility hazards, how they
will be alerted and notified of an emergency, what their actions should be in
the event of an emergency, and points of contact for additional information.
P14.30 Internal and external organizational relationships for EPI are documented and
maintained in the public information program.
P14.31 A list of 24-hour media points-of-contact is available and maintained current.
D.4.10 Termination and Recovery
Performance Goal:
An OE is terminated only after a predetermined set of criteria has been met and
termination has been coordinated with offsite agencies. Recovery from a terminated OE
includes: communication and coordination with Tribal, State, and local government and
other Federal agencies; planning, management, and organization of the associated
recovery activities; and ensuring the health and safety of the workers and public.
Evaluation Criteria:
Termination
P/E15.1 The decision to terminate emergency response for an OE is made by the site
ERO and is coordinated with all principle participating response organizations
(i.e., local, State, Tribal, DOE HQ, other participating Federal agencies).
Internal and external communications that are associated with termination are
performed.
DOE G 151.1-3 D-57
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P/E15.2 The decision to terminate an OE not requiring classification formally
announces or acknowledges that the situation is stabilized and that the
response activity is ending or has been substantially scaled back. Termination
criteria are observables associated with the event/condition.
P/E15.3 The decision to terminate an OE requiring classification is based on the need
for the ERO to remain fully active to monitor and manage the situation and is
a declaration that a decision has been reached that the full ERO is no longer
needed and the ERO may now begin to reduce its support. The termination
criteria represent decision criteria to be satisfied.
P/E15.4 An approved, predetermined set of criteria for terminating an OE requiring
classification [e.g., an airborne release of (or loss of control over) hazardous
material] is met. Selected termination criteria may include the following:
– Recovery plan is developed
– Recovery staff is identified
– Event scene/facility is in stable condition
– Event scene/facility is isolated and can be preserved
– Resources are available to begin recovery activities
– All releases of hazardous materials are ended or below level of regulator
concern
– Accountability of all personnel is complete
– Contaminated areas are identified, isolated and secured
– All injured and contaminated personnel have been treated and transported
– Notification of next-of-kin of victims
– Protective actions have been adjusted according to extended conditions
– Recovery manager and staff have been fully briefed by the Emergency
Director
– Notifications are made to DOE, other Federal, Tribal, State, and local
response organizations.
P/E15.5 An approved, predetermined set of criteria for terminating an OE not requiring
classification are met. Selected general termination criteria that apply may
include the following:
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– Recovery plan is developed
– Recovery staff is identified
– Event scene/facility is in stable condition
– Event scene/facility is isolated and can be preserved
– Resources are available to begin recovery activities
Section 180
– Next-of-kin of victims have been notified
– Recovery manager and staff have been fully briefed by the ED
– Notifications are made to DOE/NNSA, other Federal, Tribal, State, and
local response organizations.
P/E15.6 Additional OE-specific criteria for emergencies not requiring classification are
met.
P/E15.7 Termination criteria for a hazardous biological material release OE are similar
to criteria for an OE that requires classification, such as the release of toxic or
radioactive materials. The decision to terminate a biological OE is based on
the perceived need for the ERO to remain fully active to monitor and manage
the situation. Termination is a declaration that a decision has been reached
that the full ERO is no longer needed and the ERO may now begin to reduce
its support.
P/E 15.8 Facility personnel estimate exposure to hazardous materials to protect workers
and the public during reentry and recovery activities.
Recovery
P/E15.9 Prior to terminating the emergency response, the site ERO establishes the
recovery organization and determines the resources needed to begin recovery
operations.
P/E15.10 The beginning of the recovery phase is marked by the termination decision
and subsequent notifications that an event no longer constitutes an OE.
P/E15.11 The recovery plan to return the affected facility/area to normal operations
following the termination of the OE is developed by the recovery
organization, and depends on (i.e., is commensurate with) the severity and
nature of the emergency event or condition.
P/E15.12 The plan and recovery organization address the following areas, as needed:
DOE G 151.1-3 D-59 (and D-60)
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– Dissemination of information to Federal, Tribal, State, and local
organizations regarding the emergency and possible relaxation of
protective actions;
– Notifications associated with termination;
– Accident assessment and investigation;
– Recovery planning and scheduling;
– Establishment of a recovery organization;
– Repair and restoration;
– Planning for cleanup and decontamination;
– Waste management;
– Regulatory (e.g., environmental) compliance;
– Security;
– Crime scene investigation;
– Communication and notifications;
– Development and approval of recovery procedures;
– Repair or replace emergency equipment, replenish consumables;
– Health and safety (e.g., medical follow-up planning);
– Reporting requirements; and
– Criteria for the resumption of normal operations.
P/E15.13 Accident assessment and investigation are performed, consistent with event
severity, including root cause analysis, accident reporting, event
documentation collection, assessment of facility condition, and assessment of
contamination effects, if relevant.
P/E15.14 Root cause(s) of the emergency are investigated and corrective action(s) to
prevent recurrence are developed according to Departmental requirements.
P/E15.15 Recovery activities are coordinated with Federal, Tribal, State, local and other
agencies, and are in compliance with their requirements.
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APPENDIX E. Systematic Approach for Performing Self-Assessments of
Emergency Management Programs
Section 181
The purpose of this appendix is to provide guidance for the development and conduct of
systematic self-assessments of emergency management programs. DOE O 151.1C
requires DOE/NNSA facility/site managers to establish and maintain an internal
assessment program, including developing and conducting self-assessments, to provide
assurances of the readiness of emergency response capabilities. The emergency
management program administrator at each facility/site is responsible for developing self-
assessment programs and for implementing them according to a predetermined schedule.
The Cognizant DOE/NNSA field element manager is required to review contractor self-
assessment programs annually to ensure compliance with DOE/NNSA directives and
policies.
Typically, emergency management self-assessment has been considered a single internal
assessment or self-evaluation event. On the other hand, a systematic self-assessment
approach is a continuous assessment process and is based on the understanding that
emergency management includes a set of routine functions and activities that must be
maintained on an ongoing basis for readiness assurance. Systematic self-assessment
provides a holistic assessment of these functions and activities to help maintain and
sustain emergency management programs.
This appendix describes an approach for ongoing evaluation of contractor emergency
management programs. Evaluation is executed through a scheduled self-assessment
program, consisting of individual self-assessment activities that are accomplished
throughout the year. These assessment activities should focus on a full range of
emergency management functions and areas. Results of these activities provide
information that management can use in assessing overall program readiness and
effectiveness. Assessment activities carried out over the annual assessment period
support program managers in maintaining a state of program readiness. Performance
data from these activities contribute to trending and analyses that focus management
attention and resources on areas of greatest need.
Some self-assessment activities may occur once a year, while others will be assessed
more frequently to ensure that timely corrective actions contribute to program
improvement. For example, one type of self-assessment activity is emergency response
facility tours and equipment tests. These are designed to verify the state of readiness of
the Emergency Response (ER) facilities. It may be appropriate to conduct this self-
assessment activity at some sites through monthly visual inspections and more frequently
at other sites. Other assessment activities will occur on a random basis, for example, the
conduct of a no-notice exercise or a management tour of a facility. Additionally, when
emergency response teams are activated to respond to an actual emergency the
effectiveness of that response should be self-assessed and the results factored into the
annual program assessment.
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The systematic self-assessment approach suggests an annual management review of the
results of the self-assessment activities, including emergency management performance
trends and data concerning performance problems and their causes. Section E.3 of this
appendix provides a suggested approach for an annual Management Review of the
emergency management program.
E.1 Overview of an Emergency Management Self-Assessment Model for DOE/NNSA
Sites
Section 182
Following are generic examples that illustrate a systematic approach to emergency
management program self-assessment. Self-assessment activities should be conducted at
a minimum annually but staggered so that assessment is ongoing and trending of
performance data can be spread over the annual assessment period. Section E.1.1 lists
potential self-assessment activities and an approach for documenting their conduct.
Section E.1.2 illustrates an example schedule of such activities.
E.1.1 Annual Self-Assessment Activity Summary
The following table is an example summary of self-assessment activities scheduled
for the year:
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Self-Assessment Activity Scheduled Date Completed Name of Assessor
Hazards Survey (HS)/
Emergency Planning
Hazards Assessment
(EPHA) Review __________ _______________ __________________
HS/EPHA Facilities Tour __________ _______________ __________________
Emergency Response
Organization (ERO)
Qualification review __________ _______________ __________________
ERO Quarterly Drill __________ _______________ __________________
ER Plans/Procedures Review __________ _______________ __________________
ER Facilities Tour and
Equipment Test __________ _______________ __________________
Communications Test __________ _______________ __________________
ER Drill Program Review __________ _______________ __________________
Corrective Action
Timeliness Review __________ _______________ __________________
Training Documents Review __________ _______________ __________________
Offsite Interface Review __________ _______________ __________________
Training Effectiveness
Review __________ _______________ __________________
E.1.2 Emergency Management Program Management Schedule
By staggering the conduct of self-assessment activities throughout the year, emergency
management program managers can use the self-assessment activities to evaluate system
health throughout the year. To accomplish this effectively, self-assessment activities can
be included in a Program Management schedule. A program management schedule is a
simple management tool that supports the manager in planning, monitoring and
maintaining the program. Managers should establish and document in advance a
calendar of assessment activities that are to be carried that year. The program manager
should ensure that assessments are carried out, regularly review the results, and track
trends to determine program progress toward meeting performance goals. The following
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is a simplified example of a schedule focusing on assessment activities throughout the
year.
Sample Program Management Schedule
Scheduled Conducted
January:
HS/EPHA Facility Tour ________ ________
ERO Drill Program Review ________ ________
Communications Test ________ ________
February:
ER Facilities Tour and
Equipment Operability Test(s) ________ ________
ERO Training Effectiveness Review ________ ________
(Conducted by training group)
March:
Annual Internal Program Evaluation ________ ________
HS/EPHA Facility Tour ________ ________
ERO Quarterly Drill ________ ________
HS/EPHA Review ________ ________
April:
No-Notice Exercise ________ ________
ER Facilities Tour and
Equipment Operability Test(s) ________ ________
Communications Test ________ ________
Corrective action timeliness review ________ ________
May:
Section 183
Management Review of Program ________ ________
HS/EPHA Facility Tour ________ ________
ER Drill program Review ________ ________
June:
ER Facilities Tour and
Equipment Operability Test(s) ________ ________
ERO Qualification Review ________ ________
Offsite Interface Review ________ ________
ERO Quarterly Drill ________ ________
July:
HS/EPHA Facility Tour ________ ________
ERO Training Effectiveness Review ________ ________
Training Documents review ________ ________
August:
DOE G 151.1-3 E-5
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ER Facilities Tour and
Equipment Operability Test(s) ________ ________
Communications Test ________ ________
September:
HS/EPHA Facility Tour ________ ________
Annual Exercise ________ ________
ERO Quarterly Drill ________ ________
October:
ER Facilities Tour and
Equipment Operability Test(s) ________ ________
Communications Test ________ ________
November:
HS/EPHA Facility Tour ________ ________
Corrective action timeliness review ________ ________
December:
ER Facilities Tour and
Equipment Operability Test(s) ________ ________
ER Plans/Procedures review ________ ________
ERO Quarterly Drill ________ ________
E.2 Example Self-Assessment Activities
The remaining sections of this appendix describe some (not all) of the self-assessment
activities that are listed above. The conduct of other assessment activities, such as ERO
drills, communications tests, training documents review and corrective action timeliness
review, are either described in other chapters of the DOE G 151.1-series, Emergency
Management Guide (EMG), or should be self-evident to program managers. The
following selected examples are intended to convey representative content for the self-
assessment activities indicated.
E.2.1 Hazards Survey and Hazards Assessment Facilities Tour
A periodic assessment of the accuracy of facility HS and EPHA is a critical self-
assessment function. Qualified personnel should be assigned to conduct reviews,
including walk-down of facilities to ensure that changes to facilities are noted, evaluated,
and incorporated to correct HS and EPHA documents. Action items should be entered
into the organization’s corrective action program and tracked to completion to ensure the
currency of these documents. Results should also be included as part of the self-
assessment activity. The following table contains a sample form to use for a facility tour
that focuses on the current validity of the EPHA and Sample Assessment Form for a
HS/EPHA Facilities Tour
Individual conducting the tour: ______________________________________________
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Date and time of the tour: __________________________________________________
Facilities and areas toured: (list areas toured)
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
Checklist of observation points prior to and during the tour:
__HS and EPHA assessment documents (if applicable) for assigned facility
was reviewed before tour.
__Hazardous materials inventories documents were reviewed prior to tour
__Inventories of hazardous materials observed during tour
__Hazardous material storage conditions
__Hazardous material use conditions
__Energy sources
__Facility boundary
__External hazards
__Transportation hazards
__Engineered controls, safeguards/safety systems
__Administrative controls
__System barriers
__System controls and protection features
Section 184
Tour conclusions
__The facility was toured and conditions and controls remain as stated in the HS/EPHA
__The facility tour was satisfactory; however the assessor noted the following minor
discrepancies from the HS/EPHA.
__The facility tour was not satisfactory. Significant discrepancies were noted from the
HS/EPHA. (Notify the Emergency Management Department Manager immediately)
Tour Findings
List findings below and be as descriptive as possible.
E.2.2 Emergency Response (ER) Drill Program Review
The emergency management drill program should be included in the annual exercise
program (for evaluated drills) or training and drills program (for training drills) and
conducted in accordance with facility procedures. Results of evaluated drills should be
captured in critiques that identify personnel, procedure and equipment deficiencies as
well as recommendations for improvement and lessons learned. Action items generated
by the critiques should be entered into the organization’s corrective action program and
tracked to completion. Results should be included as part of the self-assessment activity.
The drill program should also be assessed in the annual internal evaluation.
DOE G 151.1-3 E-7
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Sample form for ER Drill Program Review
Individual conducting Drill Program Review:
Date of Review:
Drill records reviewed:
Drill Title:
Date of drill:
Records reviewed:
__Drill conducted as scheduled
__Scenario is used
__Drill objectives are clearly documented
__Critique documents drill results and lessons learned
__Personnel and equipment problems are documented in corrective action system
__Corrective and preventive actions are tracked to completion
__Drill participants are documented
E.2.3 Offsite Interface Review
Program managers should ensure that communications that interface with offsite
organizations, especially those that support the DOE or NNSA site’s emergency
response, are received, documented and responded to. Further guidance for program
implementation is provided within the EMG. Internal review of the offsite interface
program should be performed as part of the annual internal program evaluation using
evaluation criteria presented in this guide. This should include review of the
effectiveness of any training that the site provides for offsite organization personnel. (See
Training Effectiveness Review below)
To ensure that communications and interface issues are effective throughout the year,
program managers may choose to have these external interface activities reviewed more
frequently and trend results as part of self-assessment.
E.2.4 ERO Qualification Review
Program managers should ensure that a review of ERO qualifications be conducted
periodically to ensure that response personnel are current with regard to training,
qualification, re-qualification and emergency drill/exercise participation. ERO training
requirements and corresponding personnel training records are used to conduct this
review. The results should be included as part of the self-assessment record.
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E.2.5 Training Effectiveness Review
Periodically, qualified individuals should conduct a comprehensive evaluation of
individual training programs to identify program strengths and weaknesses. This should
include:
• Evaluation of instruction setting, materials, and instructor performance
• Feedback from trainee performance during training
• Feedback from former trainees and their supervisors
Section 185
• Change actions are monitored and evaluated for their applicability to development or
modifications of initial and continuing training programs, and change is incorporated
in a timely manner
• Improvements and changes to initial and continuing training are systematically
initiated, evaluated, tracked and incorporated to correct training deficiencies and
performance problems.
• Changes to job scope are evaluated to determine need for development or
modification of initial and continuing training programs
• Subcontracted training is evaluated for its contribution to meeting job performance
requirements and to ensure that its quality is consistent with the facility training
standards.
The results should be included as part of the self-assessment activity
E.2.6 Emergency Response (ER) Facilities Tour and Equipment Operability Test
Assessment and trending of emergency response facilities and equipment performance
relies upon the output of drill and exercise critiques, operability tests, and facility tours to
identify potential issues to the corrective action program database. Program managers
should review data from these sources annually to determine if trends in performance can
be ascertained. Documentation of the results regarding resultant findings or trends
should be documented as part of the self-assessment activity record.
Following is an example of assessment activity related to facilities and equipment, an ER
Facilities Tour reference checklist.
DOE G 151.1-3 E-9
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Sample Form
Emergency Response Facilities Tour and Equipment Operability Test
This form can be used as a reference guide while conducting a tour of one or more
emergency response facilities. Significant findings or action items should be entered into
the organization’s corrective action program and tracked to completion to ensure facility
readiness. Results should also be included as part of the self-assessment activity.
Individual conducting the tour: __________________________________________
Date and time of the tour: ______________________________________________
Facilities and areas toured: (list areas toured)
Weekly tour Monthly tour
Emergency operations center Joint information center
Operational support center Remote shutdown station
Control room Alternate EOC
Checklist of observation points during the tour:
__Ingress/egress points of facility clear of obstructions
__Facility is secured
__Cleanliness of facility
__Normal and emergency lighting OK
__Status boards are clean and ready for use
__Facility furnishings intact
__Procedure binders are in place at appropriate positions
__Visual aids/displays are in place
__Facility equipment fully in place and appears operational (note: this is not a substitute
for communications tests)
__Clocks/chronological displays are in place and reading properly
__Computer displays appear to be functioning properly (note: this is not a substitute for
equipment test programs)
__Communications systems appear to be functioning properly (note: this is not intended
to be a substitute for communications testing programs.
__Administrative controls
__System barriers
__System controls and protection features
Tour conclusion
__The facility was toured and conditions and controls support activation
__The facility tour was satisfactory & activation is supported, however the assessor noted
the following minor discrepancies.
__The facility tour was not satisfactory. Significant discrepancies were noted. (Notify
the Emergency Management Department Manager immediately)
Section 186
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Tour Findings
List findings below and be as descriptive as possible:
E.3 Annual Management Review
Management should review the emergency management program at least annually to
ensure its continuing suitability, adequacy, and effectiveness. The review should include
assessment of opportunities for improvement and the need for changes to the emergency
management program. The management review can examine the following types of
information:
__Results of internal and external audits, evaluations, and assessments
__Results of emergency exercises performed
__Results of investigation of emergency response to actual events
__Feedback from interested parties, including offsite agencies, local public, site and field
office management, other site departments
__Results of emergency management self-assessment components
__Status of corrective and preventive actions for emergency management
__Follow-up actions from pervious management reviews
__Results of reviews of HSs and EPHAs
__Results of performance trending associated with emergency management
__Results of training effectiveness review
__Results of offsite interface review
__Changes at site that could affect the emergency management program
__Recommendations for improvement
Output from the management review should include any decisions and actions related to:
__Improvement of the effectiveness of the program and its processes
__Changes to the program or its processes
__Resource needs
Records from the management review should be maintained, including the persons
participating in the review.