Overview
IEC 62646:2016 is an international standard published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) that focuses on computer-based procedures (CBP) for nuclear power plant control rooms. This standard defines the requirements and guidance for the entire lifecycle of operating procedures intended for computerisation in nuclear power plant environments. The goal of IEC 62646:2016 is to enable safer, more reliable, and efficient operation of nuclear power plants through computerized support systems that assist operators in following detailed procedures.
The standard outlines methods to decide which operating procedures should be computerized, to what degree they should be automated, and how to design and implement these systems in alignment with nuclear safety requirements. IEC 62646:2016 serves as an essential reference when designing human-machine interfaces (HMI) and integrating CBP systems into the main control room infrastructure.
Key Topics
1. Scope and Purpose of CBP
IEC 62646:2016 covers the whole life cycle of operating procedures targeted for computerisation, from initial design to verification and validation, implementation, operation, and maintenance. It emphasizes making well-informed decisions about computerization, considering safety, usability, and integration with existing systems.
2. CBP Families and Features
The standard categorizes CBP into families based on their complexity and automation level. It details essential CBP features such as guidance provision, procedure-based automation, and output documentation. Presentation layout, navigation, and HMI standards for CBP are carefully specified to ensure operator effectiveness.
3. Integration and Safety
Integration of CBP systems within the Distributed Process Display System (DPDS) or as external systems is addressed with stringent requirements for sizing, dependability, and failure management. Compliance with safety standards is a primary concern, mandating system robustness and seamless operator interactions.
4. Human Factors and Operator Assistance
IEC 62646:2016 highlights supporting operator activities, including primary tasks, secondary support, and coordination among operators. It prescribes cognitive assistance tools, such as diagnosis and decision support, ensuring that computerized procedures enhance rather than hinder operator performance.
5. Lifecycle and Quality Assurance
The document details comprehensive lifecycle requirements including project organization, quality assurance (QA) in design and implementation, verification, validation, and training. It stresses continuous feedback and maintenance to evolve CBP systems effectively along operational experience.
Applications
IEC 62646:2016 applies to:
- Control rooms of nuclear power plants that aim to computerize their operating procedures for improved safety and reliability.
- Design and implementation teams developing CBP systems to ensure compliance with international best practices and safety regulations.
- Human factors engineers and HMI designers seeking to build user-friendly, efficient computerized procedure displays for nuclear operators.
- Regulatory bodies and safety assessors evaluating the adequacy of computer-based procedure systems in nuclear facilities.
- Training organizations preparing operators to use computerized procedures effectively within nuclear control rooms.
By adopting IEC 62646:2016 guidelines, nuclear power plants can enhance operator support, reduce human error, and elevate overall plant safety and efficiency through well-structured computerized procedures.
Related Standards
- IEC 60964:2009 – Nuclear power plants - Instrumentation and control systems - Human factors engineering - Functional aspects and task design
- IEC 61839:2000 – Nuclear power plants - Instrumentation and control systems important to safety - Software aspects for computer-based systems performing category B or C functions
Reading IEC 62646:2016 in conjunction with these related standards ensures a holistic approach to human factors, system design, software quality, and safety compliance for computerized systems within nuclear energy control rooms.
Keywords: IEC 62646, nuclear power plants, control rooms, computer-based procedures, computerized procedures, CBP, nuclear safety, human-machine interface, HMI, operating procedures, procedure automation, nuclear instrumentation and control, IEC standards, nuclear operator assistance, control room automation.