At FCS, if a spreadsheet is used to perform a surveillance calculation, the spreadsheet is V&Vd and documented. For instance, if our plant computer is down, a spreadsheet may be used to perform secondary calorimetric calculation. This spreadsheet is V&Vd with documentation. This allows the independent verifier to review the input data for accuracy versus independently performing the calculation.

In some cases, as I’m sure with your plant, the spreadsheets are just used as a calculator. The performer and reviewer both independently perform the entire calculation with a calculator or spreadsheet. In this case, the spreadsheet does not need a V&V.

Barton P. Schawe, P.E.

Principal Reactor Engineer

Omaha Public Power District

Tel: 402-533-7211

email: bschawe@oppd.com

From: pwrrm@retaqs.com [mailto:pwrrm@retaqs.com] On Behalf Of Gore, Duane
Sent: Monday, September 28, 2009 1:22 PM
To: 'PWR Reactivity Management'
Subject: [Pwrrm] Use of Spreadsheets for Surveillances

We at STP use spreadsheets to perform surveillance calculations. The results are then independently verified by a second engineer using an independently generated spreadsheet. Neither spreadsheet has been formally verified per our station Software Quality Assurance procedure. In cases where the results are used without further verification, we do properly QA the spreadsheets (usually in the cases where other groups use the spreadsheets).

Our QA department is of the opinion that at least one of these spreadsheets used for surveillances must by fully verified and documented per our station Software Quality Assurance procedure.

It would help my case if I could cite other Rae’s practices with regards to the use of spreadsheets. What is the practice at your plant?

Thank you,

Duane Gore

Supervisor, Reactor Engineering

STPNOC

(361) 972-8909