DRAFT

 

PHYSICS DIVISION

QUALITY ASSURANCE PROGRAM PLAN

May 2005

 

Physics Division operations will be conducted in accordance with the ORNL Quality Assurance Program. The ORNL Quality Assurance Program sets forth the following 10 criteria:

 

1.      Program (organization)

Division organization structure is designed to place responsibilities for operational efficiency, safety, and quality in the hands of qualified personnel.

 

2.      Training and Qualification

Physics Division training programs are in place to ensure that employees and guests receive the information and guidance needed to perform their work safely and efficiently. Training programs and requirements are reviewed periodically and updated as needed. Training requirements are tailored to the work which will be performed by the individual.

 

3.      Quality Improvement

The Physics Division conducts periodic self-assessments of all Physics Division facilities in an effort to minimize safety hazards and to identify potential problems. Equipment failures are reviewed and, if required, changes in maintenance schedules, operating procedures and designs are made to reduce recurrence.

 

4.      Documents and Records

Log books are used for all accelerator related operations. Minutes of Operations meetings are used to record reviews of prior period operations and upcoming operations. Publications receive internal peer review prior to submission for publication. Training records are maintained by the Physics Division Training Officer. Surveillance, maintenance, and calibration activities for safety-related systems are recorded.

 

5.      Work Processes

In accordance with ORNL requirements, research safety summaries are prepared to identify the hazards involved in the work and measures which are to be taken to mitigate those hazards. Changes to systems under configuration control are documented and approved in accordance with the Physics Division Configuration Control procedure.

 

6.      Design

Facility modifications and equipment designs are reviewed by operations staff members for safety issues, cost, and sound engineering principles.

 

7.      Procurement

Purchase requests are submitted through the Physics Division procurement system. All purchases are reviewed for safety and quality significant issues. Detailed specification documents are prepared for major equipment purchases. The ORNL Acquisition Management System evaluates potential vendors and evaluates bids on major purchases.

 

8.      Inspection and Acceptance Testing

Fabricated items are inspected to ensure the as-built item meets the tolerances specified on engineering drawings. Procured items are inspected or tested to ensure they meet specifications.

 

9.      Assessment

Self-assessments are performed periodically by the Physics Division safety committee. Accelerator operations are reviewed by Division management to meet the goals of the research program.

 

10.  Independent Assessment

The ORNL Accelerator Safety Review Committee reviews accelerator operations periodically and whenever significant modifications are made to the facility or mode of operation. Safety assessments are also conducted by ORNL and outside agencies (DOE, OSHA, etc.).