IEEE 338-2022

IEEE 338-2022 is a technical standard for criteria used in the periodic surveillance testing of nuclear power generating station safety systems. It helps define how ongoing testing should be approached so that safety-related equipment remains suitable for service over time. In the context of power, energy and nuclear engineering, this standard is important for supporting consistent surveillance practices, helping operators verify system readiness, and maintaining confidence in safety system performance during plant operation.

Overview of IEEE 338-2022

This standard addresses the periodic surveillance testing of nuclear power generating station safety systems, with attention to the criteria used to judge whether testing is effective and appropriate. IEEE 338-2022 is relevant where safety functions must be checked on a routine basis without compromising plant reliability or operational discipline. It provides a structured technical reference for planning, conducting, and evaluating surveillance activities in nuclear power environments, where testing consistency and clear acceptance criteria are especially important.

Typical use cases

IEEE 338-2022 is commonly used in nuclear power plant programs that schedule recurring surveillance tests for safety systems, including control and protection functions, instrumentation, and related support equipment. It may also inform test procedures, maintenance planning, and engineering reviews for systems that must remain available and dependable during plant operation. For organizations involved in nuclear operations, the standard can help align periodic testing practices with established criteria and support disciplined oversight of critical safety equipment.

Why it matters

Periodic surveillance testing is a practical safeguard for identifying degradation, confirming function, and reducing uncertainty in safety systems. IEEE 338-2022 matters because it supports consistency in how these tests are defined and assessed, which can improve compliance, documentation quality, and risk management. For nuclear facilities, clear criteria help reduce variation between test programs and can support better decision-making when evaluating equipment readiness, maintenance results, and overall system reliability. IEEE 338-2022 is therefore useful for maintaining control over safety-related testing practices.

• Periodic surveillance testing criteria
• Nuclear power station safety systems
• Test planning and acceptance evaluation
• Operational readiness and reliability checks