Polestar Develops and Implements Formality of Operations at the U1a Complex

Polestar was subcontracted to improve the rigor and formality of operations for the U1a Complex at the Nevada Test Site, in response to recommendations from recent audits and self-assessments.

U1a is an underground and surface complex, 960 ft below the ground surface and 1,460 ft of horizontal tunnels, at the U.S. Department of Energy's Nevada Test Site. The U1a complex supports routine and experimental test site activities in which high explosives are detonated to test the readiness of equipment, communications, procedures, and personnel.  Information and data helps the nation maintain the reliability of the nuclear weapons stockpile. Polestar worked with Bechtel Nevada (BN) in establishing work processes, programs, and procedures for their organization and with the national laboratories.

Polestar successfully accomplished the following:

• Developed the U1a Formality of Operations program, consistent with the guidelines of DOE Order 5480.19
• Developed the U1a Requirements Database linking Federal, State, and company documents/drivers to the requirements and implementing mechanisms, including a user’s guide and self-training
• Developed a U1a-specific Document Control and Records Management System
• Developed the U1a Safety Handbook
• Developed U1a-specific training requirements and program, including U1a Complex site-specific training
• Fulfilled roles of U1a Complex Support Manager and Training Coordinator
• Developed a Mentoring Program and mentored Work Management and Information Management personnel
• Developed the U1a Configuration Management Plan
• Developed numerous procedures, including Formality of Operations, Standing Orders, Document Control and Records Managements, Mentoring, and U1aRequirements Database Management
• Prepared system descriptions for the Chilled Water, Compressed Air, Ventilation, Utility Water, and Shaft Spray systems
• Developed interim internal corrective maintenance tracking system
• Developed roles and responsibilities for U1a systems engineers
• Supported development of the MasterEquipment List

Polestar’s team was led by George Dyer, acting as the U1a Complex Support Manager, supported by an experienced team of, Kathy Fishback, Don Harlow, John Hayfield, Amy Haueter, Stan Scott, Doris Myers, Gary Genaw, John Lessor, and Jerel Nelson. Polestar also provided engineering support from Kari McDaniel who is continuing to provide systems engineering support to the U1a Complex. The contract value was $580K.