A Design to Enhance Detection of Preselected Events for Risk Reduction

This paper discusses the need to develop additional aids for nuclear plant operators during accident situations. The role of the operator, his working environment, the attitudes of licensing authorities, and the accident situation itself are discussed. The point is made that the mental flexibility of the operator, which is essential during an unanticipated accident sequence, must be in top condition during a high stress incident - exactly the type of incident which will promote the mental rigidity. Increased operator training alone is judged to be insufficient unless supplemented by other approaches to the problem. A system proposed by General Atomic to improve the situation is discussed - its principles are given and a test of the system, based upon the Three Mile Island accident, is described.