Implementing the Nuclear Fatigue Rule

摘要

Relatively new requirements established by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission in Title 10 of the Code of Federal Regulations -- "Fitness for Duty Programs" (10 CFR, Part 26) -- ensure employees are fit to safely and competently perform their duties. The re-attack on fatigue management regulations was driven by a highly publicized case of fatigued security workers at a US nuclear plant who were videotaped sleeping during a break period in 2007. The result was the "Subpart 1, 'Managing Fatigue'" addition to the 10 CFR, Part 26. The regulations in Subpart 1 are extensive and comprehensive, taking into account the multiple causes and effects of worker fatigue. As a result, the US' commercial nuclear power plants were hit with an 18-month deadline to implement a complex set of new requirements. Here are lessons to take forward for future implementations: 1. Get senior management engaged. 2. Get to know your employees' home life. 3. Allow long timelines for training.