Non-plant referenced simulator methodology to meet new 10 CFR 55.45 rule

The 10 CFR 55.45 rule on Operating Tests necessitates that nuclear power station control room simulators be upgraded to meet the new requirements. The most formidable task to meet the requirements will be for the plants that do not have plant-referenced simulators. The author presents the human factors work done on an NRC (US Nuclear Regulatory Commission)-approved guidance document sponsored by four utilities to develop a nonplant-reference simulator facility. Human factors developed the simulator process flow and criteria, and integrated all the development work into the simulation facility plan. It is concluded that the human factors work provided the mechanism to solidify ideas and provided the foundation for the simulator development methodology.<
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