In Finland, the OL 3 nuclear power plant will be the first EPR (pressurized water reactor) in Europe that will go into operation soon. The characteristics of an EPR are a digital I&C system and a fully digital control system for the power plant. The EPR will be controlled entirely via screens instead of using control buttons on large consoles as in traditional control rooms. Before the final commissioning, an analysis should be carried out in order to determine whether the operating personnel is capable of controlling the power plant safely in all possible operating states under the given conditions.
In cooperation with MTO Safety GmbH, we have conducted an experimental investigation. In four scenarios, situation awareness, human error, communication, coordination and workload were recorded and evaluated with different shift teams. The methodical approach of the investigation is reported in the latest edition of “atw International Journal für Nuclear Power”.
Miller, R., Leitner, R., Gierig, S. & Kolrep, H. (2020). Are They Ready for Operation? How to Assess the Control Room System of a New NPP. atw International Journal of Nuclear Power (65, 498-503).