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Transmission Switching and Clearance Procedures

Report Information

Date Issued
Report Number
2020-15749
Report Type
Inspection / Evaluation
Description
Due to the importance of switching and clearances being performed safely to avoid injuries and to minimize the possibility of unscheduled outages or equipment damage, we performed an evaluation to determine if switching and clearances, required training, and audits were performed in compliance with Transmission and Power Supply’s switching and clearance procedures. We determined the selected procedural requirements for requesting and tracking of switching and clearances were generally performed in accordance with procedures. We could not assess most procedural requirements related to preparation and performance of switching orders because field personnel performing the work do not always submit the completed switching order. However, we identified several instances where switching order steps were not performed in sequence as required. We also determined employees who performed key functions received required training; however, tracking of training could be improved. In addition, while clearance audits were completed by the appropriate personnel within the required time frames, their effectiveness could be increased.
Joint Report
Yes
Participating OIG
Tennessee Valley Authority OIG
Agency Wide
Yes (agency-wide)
Questioned Costs
$0
Funds for Better Use
$0

Recommendations

We recommend the Senior Vice President, Transmission and Power Supply, revise procedures to include requirements for completing audits, including following up on previous recommendations.

We recommend the Senior Vice President, Transmission and Power Supply, revise the process for updating the Official Clearance and Switching List to check for employees no longer in a position to perform the function designated on the list, including terminated employees.

We recommend the Senior Vice President, Transmission and Power Supply, revise the Official Clearance and Switching List to reflect current qualifications.

We recommend the Senior Vice President, Transmission and Power Supply, revise procedures to include steps for attaching completed switching orders to the Enterprise Shift Operations Management System narrative logs.

We recommend the Senior Vice President, Transmission and Power Supply, communicate the importance of completing switching order steps in sequence as required in TVA procedures.