The effluent control program was also effective in limiting exposure to members of the public by maintaining radionuclide concentrations in liquid and gaseous effluents, and the radiation doses from those releases, at a small percentage of their regulatory limits. The effectiveness of the effluent controls was confirmed by the results of the environmental monitoring program in that only trace amounts of activity were detected in the samples collected from the environs of the plant. Good quality assurance for analyses of environmental samples was demonstrated by the results of the licensee's participation in the Environmental Protection Agency cross-check program. The chemistry control program also functioned well in maintaining high quality primary and secondary water. Self-assessments were effective in identifying and correcting problems in the radiological control program area.
Challenges exist for procedural adherence in the areas of contamination control and transportation.
Emergency response capability was being maintained at a proficient level of operational readiness. An observed annual emergency response exercise was successfully completed by the licensee during 1996. A program strength included the consistency of the administration of the emergency response organization's performance. Problems with emergency sirens due to severe weather were promptly resolved. The licensee continued to implement and support the Physical Security plan, procedures and associated programs in a superior manner.