Nuclear Regulatory Commission August 26, 2005 – Federal Register Recent Federal Regulation Documents

The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) is proposing to amend its regulations for Fitness for Duty (FFD) programs to update the rule and enhance consistency with advances in other relevant Federal rules and guidelines, including the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Mandatory Guidelines for Federal Workplace Drug Testing Programs (HHS Guidelines), and other Federal drug and alcohol testing programs that impose similar requirements on NRC licensees. The proposed amendments would require nuclear power plant licensees to strengthen the effectiveness of their FFD programs in ensuring against worker fatigue adversely affecting public health and safety and the common defense and security by establishing clear and enforceable requirements for the management of worker fatigue; and ensure consistency with the NRC's access authorization requirements for nuclear power plants. The proposed rule would ensure that individuals who are subject to these regulations are trustworthy and reliable, as demonstrated by avoiding substance abuse; are not under the influence of drugs or alcohol while performing their duties; and are not mentally or physically impaired from any other cause, that would in any way adversely affect their ability to perform their duties safely and competently. This proposed rule would also grant, in part, a petition for rulemaking (PRM-26-1) submitted by Virginia Electric and Power Company (now Dominion Virginia Power) on December 30, 1993, by relaxing several required FFD program audit frequencies, and would partially grant a petition for rulemaking (PRM-26-2) submitted by Barry Quigley on December 28, 1999.