Prairie Island Nuclear Power Station Incident, time 1421
(adapted from Operator Decision/ Action Summary in Pew et al, (1981)
Event, or operator commentUnderlying cognitive processes
(inferred by analysis)
feed-flow/ steam-flow mismatch in Steam Generator 'A'INFORMATION AVAILABLE
COGNITIVE INFERENCES BY OPERATORS
air radiation alarms, plus
rapid decrease of pressuriser level and pressure, plus
mismatch,
unequivocally confirm rupture,
probably in Steam Generator 'A'
Interpretation
pressuriser level and pressure will continue to decrease.
low pressuriser pressure will cause :-
automatic reactor trip (shut-down)-
automatic safety water injection
Expectations
minimise effect of reactor trip on power grid
(sudden pull-off of power not desirable)
Intention
notify grid controller of planned reduction.
commence load reduction.
ACTIONS