A13-2-8 The technical specifications for operation

The objective of the technical specifications (TS) is to define conditions and limits for the operation of the 

Particularly important is an initial part of the TS devoted to definitions. An example of a particularly delicate definition is the one concerning the word operable one of the most common within the TS  

The TS text, with the aid of the initial definitions, must be clear and unmistakable. In fact the TS are the first support of the plant operators for fundamental decisions, such as the continuation of operation at power in the presence of irregular plant situations. Frequently, little time for discussions and interpretation is available when decisions of this kind have to be taken. 

The probabilistic plant analysis offers a rational basis for decisions concerning the TS, either for the choice of operating limits or for the intervals between tests and inspections of parts of the plant (periodic surveillance). 

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