IEEE 1786-2022

IEEE 1786-2022 is a redline standard for human factors applications of computerized operating procedure systems (COPS) at nuclear power generating stations and other nuclear facilities. It focuses on how digital procedure systems should support operators in safety-sensitive environments, where clarity, sequencing, and reliable interaction can affect performance. As an engineering reference, it helps organizations compare changes, assess operational impact, and maintain consistency in procedure design and use.

IEEE 1786-2022 overview

This document addresses the human factors considerations that apply when operating procedures are computerized for nuclear facility use. IEEE 1786-2022 is intended to guide the design and evaluation of COPS so they better support operator awareness, task execution, and procedure adherence. Because it is a redline edition, it is especially useful for reviewing updates and identifying revisions within the technical guidance. Its scope is closely tied to computing, nuclear engineering, and power-system operations.

Typical use cases

IEEE 1786-2022 is commonly used when developing or reviewing computerized procedure platforms for control rooms, operations support stations, and similar nuclear plant workflows. It may also inform retrofit projects that replace paper-based instructions with digital step-by-step procedures, especially where operator confirmation, navigation, and error prevention matter. Engineering teams and safety reviewers can use it to evaluate interface behavior, procedure presentation, and task flow in station operations or other nuclear facility environments.

Why this standard matters

In nuclear operations, small usability problems can create outsized risk. IEEE 1786-2022 helps support consistent design and review of computerized operating procedure systems so procedures are easier to follow and less prone to confusion or omission. It can be valuable for compliance planning, procurement specifications, design control, and verification activities. Using a recognized guide also helps teams align expectations between operations, engineering, and human factors review groups.

• Computerized operating procedure systems
• Human factors guidance for nuclear operations
• Control room and operations support workflows
• Redline review of technical revisions
• Procedure design, evaluation, and consistency