U.S. flag

An official website of the United States government

Dot gov

Official websites use .gov
A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Https

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS
A lock () or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

Organizational Effectiveness – Watts Bar Nuclear Plant Chemistry/Environmental

Report Information

Date Issued
Report Number
2020-15719
Report Type
Inspection / Evaluation
Description
The Office of the Inspector General conducted a review of the Watts Bar Nuclear Plant (WBN) Chemistry/Environmental (Chemistry) organization to identify factors that could impact WBN Chemistry’s organizational effectiveness. Our report identified behavioral risks that could have a negative impact on WBN Chemistry’s effectiveness, including those related to (1) interactions with certain management and (2) relationships between employees. We also identified operational risks that could hinder WBN Chemistry’s ability to execute its responsibilities and support Nuclear’s vision and core principles. These risks were comprised of (1) perceptions of inadequate qualified and/or experienced technicians and turnover in Nuclear Chemistry and (2) concerns with the technician training program. In addition, based on feedback received from other WBN organizations, we corroborated concerns about WBN Chemistry’s staffing and personnel knowledge.
Joint Report
Yes
Participating OIG
Tennessee Valley Authority OIG
Agency Wide
Yes (agency-wide)
Questioned Costs
$0
Funds for Better Use
$0

Recommendations

Address concerns related to working relationships between personnel (a) within the NC department and (b) in NC and TSP.

Address concerns related to the technician training program.

Address concerns associated with WBN Chemistry management, including those related to communication, trust, and accountability

Address concerns related to perceptions of inadequate staffing and turnover in NC, including concerns related to qualified/experienced technicians and shift-work staffing.