Stability Assessment Process Review

November 10, 2010

2010-13105

Audit

The objectives of this review were to determine what actions TVA has taken since the Kingston Fossil Plant ash spill to address (1) deficiencies in ash management governance, (2) cultural issues identified, (3) stability of the other coal ash impoundments, and (4) deficiencies in the coal ash management program. The scope of this review included coal ash management and related risks. In summary, we found that since the Kingston Fossil Plant ash spill, TVA is taking appropriate actions to (1) improve ash management governance, (2) drive culture change, (3) evaluate the stability and corresponding safety factors pertaining to ash impoundments, (4) remediate risks, and (5) identify and address ash management deficiencies. Specifically, TVA has:Decided to include coal ash impoundments under the Dam Safety Program to increase governance and use the expertise of TVA's independent Hydro Review Board in assessing the safety and stability of coal ash impoundments.Taken action to drive organizational culture change, including (1) hiring an independent cadre of professionals to assess the TVA culture, (2) instituting an organizational effectiveness initiative, and (3) reorganizing to improve accountability.Hired Stantec, Inc., to evaluate the stability of facility ash impoundments and established an appropriate evaluation and remediation process.Taken immediate action to improve stability and mitigate risks pertaining to many TVA coal ash impoundments.Compiled a gap analysis of recommendations to TVA from the relevant review sources to ensure ash management problem areas are addressed. Development and implementation of quality assurance/control processes and the development of ash management policies and procedures are examples of key actions taken.While TVA has made significant progress to date, it is important to note this is a long-term project that TVA must continue to make a priority.

Yes

Yes (agency-wide)

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