From August 24-26, 2021, the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) International Regulatory Development Partnership (IRDP) conducted a virtual workshop for the National Atomic Energy Agency of Poland (PAA). The 3-day workshop focused on quality assurance (QA) and vendor inspection lessons learned and consisted of presentations conducted by Mr. Greg Galletti and Mr. Odunayo Ayegbusi from the NRC’s Office of Nuclear Reactor Regulation, supported by AdSTM experts Dr. Charles Miller and Mr. Mark Tonacci.
On the first day, the presenters described foundational information regarding the QA regulatory framework, the 18 QA criteria described in 10 CFR Part 50 Appendix B, applicable regulatory guidance, industry quality assurance standards and standard review plan documents. Presentations on the second day included the impact of the reliability assurance program on the design and construction of new nuclear plants. Additional discussions centered on the roles of the QA technical reviewers for a license application. Day 3 began with a presentation that compared the 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B quality criterion, to the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 9001 Quality Management System requirements. Afterwards, the extensive training and qualification program for QA technical reviewers and inspectors was discussed. Lastly, a detailed presentation was done to describe the commercial grade dedication process.
Many excellent questions were asked by the PAA staff during the workshop that demonstrated a thorough understanding of the material. The NRC and AdSTM staff anticipate scheduling a planning meeting with the PAA staff to consider potential additional workshops.