IEEE P338/D6, Jan 2022

IEEE P338/D6, Jan 2022 is a draft standard focused on criteria for the periodic surveillance testing of nuclear power generating station safety systems. It addresses how ongoing testing can help confirm that safety-related equipment remains dependable between maintenance intervals. For nuclear engineering and power applications, this kind of document is important because it supports consistent testing practice, clearer acceptance criteria, and better control of operational risk in safety-critical systems.

IEEE P338/D6, Jan 2022 overview

This draft specification sets out technical guidance for surveillance testing associated with nuclear plant safety systems. IEEE P338/D6, Jan 2022 is aimed at periodic verification activities that help demonstrate a system is still capable of performing its intended safety function. In practice, that can include defining test criteria, timing, and evaluation methods for equipment used in nuclear power generating stations. The document is relevant to teams that need a structured basis for inspection, testing, and maintenance planning.

Typical use cases

IEEE P338/D6, Jan 2022 is typically used when planning or reviewing surveillance tests for nuclear station safety systems, including instrumentation, protection-related equipment, and other components that support safe operation. It may guide procedures for scheduled checks, testing intervals, and pass/fail decisions in engineering and maintenance workflows. The standard is especially useful where plant operators, test engineers, and compliance teams need a common reference for periodic verification in a regulated power-generation environment.

Why this standard matters

Periodic surveillance testing is central to maintaining confidence in nuclear safety systems, and IEEE P338/D6, Jan 2022 provides a draft framework for doing that work more consistently. Clear criteria can reduce ambiguity in test execution, support compliance efforts, and help identify degraded performance before it affects system readiness. For organizations managing nuclear power assets, a defined approach to surveillance testing also supports documentation quality, operational discipline, and risk reduction across the life of the plant.

• Periodic surveillance testing criteria
• Nuclear safety system verification
• Test planning and acceptance checks
• Maintenance and compliance support
• Operational readiness in nuclear power stations