Monitoring Inspection Report (40 CFR 194.42)

Of The Waste Isolation Pilot Plant March 24 25,1999 Page 1 Table of Contents 1 .O Executive Summary 2.0 Background 3.0 Scope 4.0 Inspection Team, Observers, and Participants 5.0 Performance of the inspections 5 .1 Monitoring of Geomechanical Parameters 5.2 Monitoring of Hydrological Parameters 5.3 Monitoring of Waste Activity Parameters 5.4 Monitoring of Drilling Related Parameters 5.5 Monitoring of Subsidence Parameters 6.0 Summary of findings, observation, concerns, and recommendations Attachments Attachment A. 1 Inspection Plan Attachment A. 2 Inspection Checklist Attachment B. Opening and Closing Sign Up Sheets Attachment C. Documents Reviewed Attachment D. 1 Geomechanical Documents Reviewed Attachment D. 2 Hydrological Documents Reviewed Attachment D .3 Waste Activity Documents Reviewed Attachment D. 4 Drilling Related Documents Reviewed Attachment D. 5 Subsidence Documents Reviewed Attachment D. 6 Other Documents Reviewed Page 2 Page 4 4 5 5 6 7 7 8 8 9 9 1.0 Executive Summary The U. S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) conducted an inspection of the Department of Energy (DOE) Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP) March 24 25, 1999, as part of its continuing oversight program. The purpose of this inspection was to verifj that DOE is monitoring the ten parameters listed in the WIPP Compliance Certification Application (CCA), Volume 1, Section 7.0, Table 7 7 (See Table 1).

The inspection examined implementation of monitoring for geomechanical, hydrological, waste activity, drilling related, and subsidence parameters. The inspectors toured locations where measurements are taken, reviewed parameter databases, and reviewed documents and procedures directing these monitoring activities.

The EPA inspectors found that DOE through its contractor, Westinghouse, has effectively implemented the monitoring program at WIPP. As determined in the certification decision, May 13, 1998, the program has adequate documentation/ procedures governing the program. The inspection team also confirmed that DOE'S program requires reporting the results of these various monitoring programs on an annual basis, as committed to in the CCA.

2.0 Background The Compliance Criteria at Section 194.42 require DOE to "conduct an analysis of the effects of disposal system parameters on the containment of waste in the disposal system" (40 CFR 194.42 (a)). The results of this analysis is to be include in the CCA and is to be used to develop pre closure and post closure monitoring requirements.

Volume 1, Section 7.0 of the CCA documents DOE analysis, Table 7 7 ofthe CCA (Document COB DOE 194# 1, Attachment D. 6) lists the ten parameters that DOE discovered may impact the disposal system. These parameters are grouped into major categories and listed in Table 1.

Geomechanicat Parameters Waste Activity Pararneter Creep closure, Waste Activity Extent of deformation, Initiation of brittle deformation, and DispIacernent of defurmatian features. Subsidence Parameter Subsidence measurements Hydrological Parameters Drilling Related Parameters Culebra groundwater composition and Change in Culebrs groundwater flow Drifling rate and The probability of encountering a direction. Castile brine reservoir.

Page 3 EPA approved these ten monitoring parameters in the certification rulemaking. Section 194.42( c) requires DOE to have an implemented program before emplacement of waste can begin during the management and storage phase of operation. This inspection was done to veri@ implementation of the monitoring program at WIPP.

Chuck Byrum Nick Stone 3.0 Scope Inspection Team Leader EPA Inspector EPA Inspection activities included an examination of monitoring and sampling equipment both on and off site, and in the underground. A review of sampling procedures and measurement techniques was conducted.

4.0 Inspection Team, Observers, and Participants The inspection team consisted of two representatives of the EPA Administrator. Observers from the Environmental Evaluation Group (EEG), Jim Kenney and Bill Bartlett, were also present.

Page 4 Numerous DOE staff members and contractors participated in the inspection.

Ron Richardson Ken Mikus Stew art Jones I Cynthia Zlonar I ES& H WID Waste Ops WID ES& H WID 1 DOEKAO 1 Linda Jo Dalton I Bob Billett ES& H WID I ES& H I Benny Hooda I ES& H I lReyCarrasc0 1 Geo. Engr. (WID I 1 ES& H I The inspection began on Wednesday, March 24, 1999, with a presentation by DOE CAO and WID about the present status of the WlPP monitoring program. Site personnel discussed the monitoring of waste activity, geotechnical parameters, subsidence monitoring, environmental monitoring such as water levels, and drilling related parameters.

The inspection team toured and reviewed various activities to veri@ effective implementation of the plans and procedures presented during the oral presentations. The team reviewed the WIPP Waste Information System (WWIS) used to capture the activity of waste shipped from the various generator sites, The team reviewed the Delaware Basin Drilling Surveillance program, and the Ground Control Monitoring program.

The inspection team reviewed the ground water monitoring program during the 40 CFR 19 1.03, Subpart A inspection held on March 22 23, 1999.

5.0 Performance of the Inspection The EPA inspectors reviewed three hndamental areas to veri@ implementation of the DOE monitoring program during the management and storage phase, 1) written plans and Page 5 procedures, 2) quality assurance procedures and records, and 3 ) results of the monitoring program in the form of raw data, intermediate reports, and final annual reports, if appropriate.

On February 9 1 1, 1999, the EPA QA Team performed an annual inspection of the DOE/ WID quality assurance programs. The DOE/ WID programs were found to be adequately maintained.

The inspection checklist in Attachment A. 2 provides details on inspection activities.

5.1 Monitoring of Geomechanical Parameters DOE committed to measure four geomechanical parameters in the CCA; creep closure, extent of deformation, initiation of brittle deformation, and displacement of deformation features. WlPP has four programs that supply information for these four parameters; the geomechanical monitoring program, the geosciences program, the ground control program, and the rock mechanics program. These programs are documented in the "Geotechnical Engineering Program Plan" (WP 7 1, Attachment D. l, COB 194. X).

The results of the Geotechnical Engineering Program are documented in the Geotechnical Analysis Report for July 1996  June 1997 (Attachment D. 1, COB 194. P).

Rey Carrasco, contractor for DOE, in the opening meeting discussed how the four geomechanical parameters are measured and discussed the instrumentation used to measure the response of shafts and underground openings (Attachment D. 1, COB 194C). The inspection team toured and reviewed underground instrumentation, the computer data base, and field data sheets used to record raw measurement data (Attachment D. 1, COB 194L. 1 to L. 6). Mr. Carrasco showed the inspection team the input of data into the computer database and examined the output checkprint (Attachment D. 1, COB 194M) to veri@ implementation of the measurement plan.

5.2 Monitoring of Hydrological Parameters DOE committed to measure two hydrological parameters in the CCA; Culebra groundwater composition and changes in the Culebra groundwater flow direction. These parameters and related parameters are measured and documented in the WIPP environmental monitoring program. These programs are documented in the Groundwater Surveillance Program Pan (WP 02 1, Attachment D. 2, COB 194. W).

The results of this program are documented in the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant Site Environmental Report  Calendar Year 1997 (Attachment D. 2, COB 194. T).

In the opening meeting Stewart Jones, contractor for DOE, discussed the program used to measure and document the hydrological parameters. Mr. Jones discussed the measurement methods used to measure groundwater composition and used to measure values used to derive the direction of groundwater Bow (Attachment D. 2, COB 194W). .

Page 6 The inspection team reviewed water level measurements for the month of March (Attachment D. 2, COB 1944.1 to 43). The team reviewed the raw data sheets recorded in the field and the quality assurance cross check, CHECKPRINT, procedures (Attachment D. 2, COB 194R).

The inspection team also toured the WQSP 2 groundwater sampling well and the mobile chemistry laboratory. Mi. Jones and other contractor staff presented a detailed explanation of groundwater composition measurement procedures, such as dissolved minerals, and quality assurance requirements.

5.3 Monitoring of Waste Activity Parameters DOE committed to measure waste activity in the CCA. This parameter is part of the extensive database collected for each container shipped to WIPP and is stored in the W P Waste Information System (WWIS). The WWIS is a software system that screens waste container data and provides reports on the TRU waste sent to WIPP. The requirements for the WWIS are discussed in "WIPP Waste Information System Program" (WP 05 WA. 02, Attachment D. 3, COB 1 9 4 9 .

The facility demonstrated that the WWIS can receive data and that the WWIS can generate reports. The CAO has committed to annual waste activity reports.

Ken Mikus, contractor for DOE, discussed how the WWIS is used to record waste activity information provided by the generator sites and how the computer database that is created is used to produce the necessary reports. The inspection team toured the WWIS computer system where Mr. Mikus demonstrated the transmission of data from the Los Alamos Laboratory generator site and how this information is used to develop different waste activity reports (Attachment D. 3, COB 194G.

5.4 Monitoring of Drilling Related Parameters DOE committed to measure two drilling related parameters in the CCA; the drilling rate and the probability of encountering a Castile brine reservoir. These parameters are measured as part of the "Delaware Basin Drilling Surveillance Program" (WP 02 PC. 02, Attachment D. 4, COB 194.1). This surveillance program measures or records many parameters related to drilling activities around the WIPP site.

The results of the surveillance program is documented annually in the Delaware Basin Drilling Surveillance Program  Annual Report for October 1997 through September 1998 (Attachment D. 4, COB 194. K).

During the opening meeting David Hughes, contractor for DOE, discussed the program used to measure the drilling rate and used to derive the probability of encountering a Castile brine reservoir. He discussed the information sources, such as Dwight's Petroleum commercial information and the state of New Mexico Oil Conservation Division. Mr. Hughes explained the Page 7 data collected and placed in the well information database and the quality assurance requirements (Attachment D. 4, COB 194F). Mr. Hughes provided the inspection team a hands on demonstration of the computer database system and showed examples of maps produced and reports generated from the system (Attachment D. 4, COB 194J).

5.5 Monitoring of Subsidence Parameters DOE committed to measure the subsidence at the WIPP site in the CCA. This parameter is documented as part of the of the "WIF'P Underground and Surface Surveying Program" (WP09 ES. 01, Attachment D. 5, COB 194. U). The DOE will perform the subsidence survey at the site annually during pre closure operations.

The results of this program are to be reported annually in the WIPP Subsidence Monument Leveling Survey  1998 (Attachment D. 5, COB 194.0).

During the opening meeting Rey Carrasco, contractor for DOE, discussed the subsidence parameter measurements program (Attachment D. 5, COB 194D). Mr. Carrasco explained how horizontal and vertical surveys would be performed and the quality assurance requirements for these surveys. Mr Carrasco and his staff demonstrated to the inspection team the survey equipment used, the methods used to record and check field data, how these data are input into the computer database and are used to produce the needed reports.

6.0 Summary of finding, observation, concerns, and recommendations.

EPA performed this inspection to verify that DOE/ WLD has implemented a program at the WIPP site to monitor the ten parameters it found to be important in the CCA. During this inspection the inspectors found that DOE has adequately implemented programs to monitoring these ten parameters during pre closure operations. DOEiWID also plans to report the results of these monitoring activities as committed to in the CCA documentation.

Page 8 Attachment A. 1 40 CFR 194.42 Inspection Plan Purpose: Veri@ that the Department of Energy (DOE) can demonstrate that the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP) is monitoring the parameter commitments made in the documentation to support the EPA's certification decision, in particular CCA, Volume 1, Section 7.0 and Appendix MON. This inspection is conducted under the authority of 40 CFR 5 194.2 1.

This inspection is part of EPA's continued oversight to ensure that WIPP can, in fact, monitor the performance of significant parameters of the disposal system.

Scope: Inspection activities will include an examination of monitoring and sampling equipment both on and off site, and in the underground. A review of sampling procedures and measurement techniques may be conducted. Quality assurance procedures and documentation for each of these activities may also be reviewed.

Startup Issues: The specific purpose of this inspection is to veri@ and confirm that WIPP has complied with the requirements of 40 CFR 194.42. As stated in 40 CFR 194.42( c)

I. , .in no case shall waste be emplaced in the disposal system prior to the implementation of pre closure monitoring."

Therefore, the EPA believes it is appropriate to veri@ the adequate implementation of pre closure monitoring before the first receipt of waste at WIPP.

Location: This inspection will be held at the WIPP facility location twenty six miles south east of Carlsbad, New Mexico and the surrounding vicinity as needed.

Duration: The EPA expects to complete its inspection, with DOE'S cooperation, in one day. The day will begin with an opening meeting at 8: OO a. m. and end at 5: OO p. m. with a closeout session.

Date: Expected to be held during the week of March 22, 1999. Attachment A. 2 40 CFR 194.42 Inspection Check List 40 CFR 194.42  DOE WIPP Monitoring Commitments Checklist L _ ~

Pre closure Monitoring Commitments Question Does DOE demonstrate that they have implemented plans/ programs/ procedures to measure

a) Creep Closure;

b) Extent of Deformation;

c) Initiation of Brittle Deformation and d) Displacement of Deformation Features during the pre closure phase of operations as specified in the CCA part of the geomechanical monitoring system?

(CCA? Volume 1, Table 7 7; App MON, Table MON 1) 40 CFR 194.42 (c) and (e)

~

Does DOE demonstrate that they have implemented an effective quality assurance program for item 1 above? 40 CFR 194.22 Does DOE demonstrate that the results of the geotechnical investigations are reported annually? (CCA, App. MON, Page MON 10) ~~ ~~

Comment (Objective Evidence)

Item #28, below, documents the program planned to measure, document, report, and QA these four activities. Section 3.0, item #28 documents the Geomechanical Monitoring Program and records the activities associated with this program, the methods planned to be used, and the reporting plans. Section 4.0, item #28 documents the quality assurance requirements of these actrvities.

Items #16 and #17 are examples of raw data collection and vedication. Items #18 and #19 are examples of results of these monitoring activities.

The inspection team toured and reviewed the computer system and database systems used to collect and process these data.

EPA performed a quality assurance inspection February 9 1 1, 1999, and found the program at DOE/ WID adequate.

__~~ ~~

Item #28, page 8 requires that analysis will be performed annually and the results will be published in the geotechnical analysis report.  Result Sat.

Sat.

 Sat.

 Documents Reviewed: #7  WIPP Geotechnical Engineering Monitoring  Presentation by Rey Carrasco #28  WIPP Geotechnical Engineering Program Plan  W 07 0 1, Revision 2 #16  Sample  raw data  GIS Field Data Sheets, Room Closure Measurements #17  Sample  raw data  CVPT Field Data Checkprint # 18  Long Term Ground Control Plan for the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant #19  Geotechnical Analysis Report for July 1996  June 1997 40 CFR 194.42  DOE WIPP Monitoring Commitments Checklist #  .......... .......... .................... ......... .......... .......... .......... ......... ......... .......... .......... .................... ............ ............ .... ...... ..........

1 2  3  Pre closure Monitoring Commitments Question Does DOE demonstrate that they have implemented planslprogramsiprocedures to measure

a) Culebra Groundwater Composition;

b) Change in Culebra Groundwater Flow Direction during the pre closure phase of operations as specified in the CCA part of WIF'P's groundwater monitoring plan?

(CCA, Volume 1; Table 7 7; App MON, Table MON 1) 40 CFR 194.42 (c) and (e)

Does DOE demonstrate that they have implemented an effective quality assurance program for item 1 above? (CCA, App MON, Page MON 22) 40 CFR 194.22 Does DOE demonstrate that the results of the groundwater monitoring program are reported annually '? (CCA. App. MON, Page MON 22) Comment (Objective Evidence)

Item #27, below, documents the program planned to measure, document, report, and QA these two activities. Item #27 documents the Groundwater Surveillance Program Plan and records the activities associated with this program, the methods planned to be used, and the reporting plans. Section 4.0, item #27 documents the quality assurance requirements of these activities.

Item #22 is an example of actual water level measurements. Item #21 is an computer print out of these measurements and item #23 is a checkprint of these same measurements with a signature verifying QA review. Item #23 is an example of results of these monitoring activities.

The inspection team toured and review.: +he WQSP 2 borehole location to evaluate water measurement techniques. The team also evaluated the chemical analysis performed in the mobile laboratory.

~~ ~ ~

EPA performed a quality assurance inspection February 9 1 1, 1999, and found the program at DOE/ WD adequate.

Item #27, page 28 documents that results of monitoring will be reported annually and will be published in the Annual Site Environmental Report (ASER). Result Sat.

Sat.

Sat.

Documents Reviewed: #9  Environmental Monitoring 40 CFR 194  Presentation by Stewart Jones #27  Groundwater Surveillance Program Plan  WP 02 1, Revision 3 #21  Computer printouts of water level measurements measured during the month of March 1999 #22  Actual field copies of raw data of water levels measured in March 1999 #23  Samples of signed quality assurance check prints of water level measurements during the month of March #21  Waste Isolation Pilot Plant Site Environmental Report  Calendar Year 1997 1999 40 CFR 194.42  DOE WIPP Monitoring Commitments Checklist # ................. ................... ............ .................... .................... .................... ............ ....... .~,.:.:.:.:. y,.:.:

 .......... .......

1 2  3  Pre closure Monitaring €ornmitments Question Does DOE demonstrate that they have implemented plans/ programs/ procedures to measure

a> Waste Activity?

(CCA, Volume 1, Table 7 7; App MON, Table MON 1) 40 CFR 194.42 (c) and (e)

Does DOE demonstrate that they have implemented an effective quality assurance program for item I? (CCA, App WAP, page C 30) 40 CFR 194.22 ~~

Does DOE demonstrate that the results of the waste activity parameters are reported annually'? (CCA Volume. Section 7.2.4 Reporting) Comment (Objective Evidence)

WWIS will be used to measure and store waste activity among other things. Item #26, below, documents the program planned to measure, document, report, and QA this activity. Item #26 documents the WWIS Program and records the activities associated with this program, the methods planned to be used, and the reporting plans.

Item #I 1 is an example of the Waste Container Report for LANL waste shipped on March 25, 1999 and item #I2 is an example of the Nuclide Report for test waste data.

The inspection team toured and reviewed the WWIS computer system and the database computer program. The team reviewed the query capabilities of the system to produce waste activity reports.

~~~

EPA performed a quality assurance inspection February 9 1 1. 1999, and found the program at DOE/ WID adequate.

Item #26, page 19 documents that results of monitoring will be reported annually.

Documents Reviewed: #6  WIPP Waste Information System (WWIS)  Presentation by Ken Mikus #26  WIPP Waste Information System Program  WP 05 WA. 02, Revision 0 #I 1  Sample 'Waste Container Data Report' from the WWIS #I2  Samole 'Nuclide Report' from the WWIS Result Sat.

Sat.

Sat.

 40 CFR 194.42  DOE WWP Monitoring Commitments Checklist  #

I 2  3 Pre closure and Post Closure Monitoring Commifments Question Does DOE demonstrate that they have implemented plans/ programs/ procedures to measure

a) Drilling Rate; and b) Probability of Encountering a Castile Brine Reservoir?

(CCA, Volume 1, Table 7 7; App MON, Table MON 1) 40 CFR 194.42 (c) and (e)

Does DOE demonstrate that they have implemented an effective quality assurance program for item 1 above'? (CCA, App DMP, page DMP 9) 40 CFR 194.22 ~~ __~~ ~ ~~

Does DOE demonstrate that the results of the drilling related parameters are reported annually? (CCA Volume, Section 7.2.4 Reporting; App DMF, page DMP 9) ~~ ~

Comment (Objective Evidence)

ltem #13, below, documents the program planned to measure, document, report, and QA these two activities. Item # 13 documents the Delaware Basin Drilling Surveillance Plan and records the activities associated with this program, the methods planned to be used, and the reporting plans. Section 6.0, item #13 documents the quality assurance requirements of these activities.

Item # 14 is an example of the information recorded and stored in the drilled hole database. Item # 15 is a copy of the annual report; page 15 shows the 1998 calculation of the dnlling rate and page shows a discussion of Castile brine pockets.

The inspection team toured and reviewed the computer and database system used to record and store drill hole data. The team reviewed the report and mapping capabilities of the computer system..

EPA performed a quality assurance inspection February 9 1 1, 1999, and found the program at DOE/ WID adequate.

Item #13. page 5 documents that results of monitoring will be reported annually.

 Documents Reviewed: #10  Delaware Basin Surveillance Plan  Presented by David Hughes #13  Delaware Basin Drilling Surveillance Plan  WF' 02 PC. 02, Revision 0 #14  Sample print out from the drilling surveillance computer database #15  Delaware Basin Drilling Surveillance Program  Annual Report for October 1997 through September 1998 Result Sat.

Sat.

Sat.

 40 CFR 194.42  DOE WIPP Monitoring Commitments Checklist #  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. ......... .::. v . . . . . . . .

1 2 3  Pre closure and Poet CIosure Monitoring Commitments Question Does DOE demonstrate that they have implemented plans/ programs/ procedures to measure

a) Subsidence measurements?

(CCA, Volume 1, Table 7 7; App MON, Table MON I) 40 CFR 194.42 (c) and (e)

Does DOE demonstrate that they have implemented an effective quality assurance program for item I? 40 CFR 194.22 Does DOE demonstrate that the results of the subsidence measurements are reported annuallv? (CCA Volume, Section 7.2.4 Reporting) ~ ~~~

Comment (Objective Evidence)

Item #25, below, documents the program planned to measure, document, report, and QA these two activities. Item #25 documents the WIPP Underground & Surface Surveying Program and records the activities associated with this program, the methods planned to be used, and the reporting plans. Section 4.0, item #25 documents the quality assurance requirements of these activities.

Item #20 is a copy of the annual report for 1998.

The inspection team toured and reviewed the computer and database system used to record and store subsidence survey data. The team reviewed the report and mapping capabilities of the computer system..

EPA performed a quality assurance inspection February 9 1 1, 1999, and found the program at DOE/ WID adequate.

Item #25, page 11 documents that results of monitoring will be reported annually Documents Reviewed: #8  WIPP Subsidence Monitoring  Presented by Rey Carrasco #25  WIPP Underground and Surface Surveying Program  WP 09 ES. O1, Revisi'on 1 #20  WIPP Subsidence Monument Leveling survey  1998 Result Sat.

Sat.

Sat.

I Attachment B Opening and Closing Sign Up Sheets ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY CFR 194.42 OPENING MEETING ATTENDANCE n March 24, 1999 PRINTED NAME _L /

t Tw 9` s PHONE NUMBER a 34,893 3/ ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY March 25, 1999 CFR 194.42 CLOSE OUT MEETING ATTENDANCE Attachment C Documents Reviewed 4 I I cc) d m I I

I I ?

* a * m s vi $ vi ; * s f a I $2 O * a+

0 cl m ;I"

N N * ? * m $

d N m L, 0 j k M N m $

c? n &

i? i? b a \o N m $

c? c11 U O S a 4 + 0 9 z 2 M a e P N 01 N Attachment D. 1 Geomechanical Documents Reviewed 1 Effective Date: 0311 619 WP 07 01 Revision 2 WIPP Geotechnical Engineering Program Plan Cognizant Section: Geotechnical Enaineerina Approved By: S. J. Patchet Cognizant Department: Enaineerina Approved By: J. J. Garcia WlPP Geotechnical Engineering Program Plan WP 07 01, Rev. 2 TABLE OF CONTENTS .

I 1 .O INTRODUCTION .................................................................................................... 1 .1 Backaround 1 1.2 Geosciences Pfoclram ..................................................................................... 2 1.3 Geomechanical Monitorina Prosram ........................................................... 2 1.4 Rock Mechanics Proaram ............................................................................. 2 1.5 Ground Control Proaram .............................................................................. 2 2.0 ADMlNlSTRATlON 3 2.1 Oraanization .................................................................................................... 3 2.2 Responsibilities 3 2.3 Trainina and Qualifications .......................................................................... 3 .....................................................................................................

.................................................................................................

........................................................................................... .;.

3.0 TECHNICAL PROGRAM DESCRIPTION ............................................................... 3 3 3.1 Geosciences Proqram ..................................................................................... 3 3.1 .I Background ......................................................................................... 4 3.1.2 Purpose ............................................................................................... 3.1.3 Scope 4 3.1.4 Methods 4 3.2 Geomechanical Monitorina Prosram ........................................................... 5 6 3.2.1 Background ........................................................................................ 6 3.2.2 Purpose' .............................................................................................. 6 3.2.3 Scope .................................................................................................. 3.2.4 Methods 7 3.3 Rock Mechanics Proclrarn ........................................................................... 10 3.3.1 Background 10 3.3.2 Purpose 10 3.3.3 Scope 10 3.3.4 Methods 11 Ground Control Prosram ............................................................................ 12 13 3.4.1 Background ...................................................................................... 3.4.2 Purpose 13 3.4.3 Scope 14 3.4.4 Methods 14 .................................................................................................. ..............................................................................................

.......................................................................................... ....

...................................................................................... ............................................................................................ ................................................................................................ ............................................................................................. 3.4 ............................................................................................ ................................................................................................ .............................................................................................

4.0 QUALITY ASSURANCE 15 ........................................................................................ 4.1 Desian Control 15 15 4.2 Procurement ................................................................................................ 15 4.3 Instructions, Procedures and Drawinas ......................................................... 4.4 Document Control 16 ................ 16 4.5 Control of Purchased Material, Equbment. and Services : ............ 4.6 Identification and Control of Items 16 4.7 Test Control 16 .............................................................................................

.......................................................................................

............................................................ ................................................................................................. WlPP Geotechnical Engineering Program Plan WP 07 01, Rev. 2 4.8 Software Reauirements .............................................................................. 17 4.9 Control of Monitoring and Data Collection Equipment .................................. 18 4.1 0 4.1 1 Control of Nonconformina Conditiondltems . . . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . _.. . ._. . .... . 18 4.12 Corrective Actions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . '. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . * . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . ... . . . . ... . .. 18 4.1 3 4.14 4.15 Handha. Storaae. and Shirminq . .... .... ... .... .. ... ..... .. ...... .......... ..... .. 18 Records Manaaement . . . .. . . . . . . .. .. . .. . .. . . . . . . ... . ... . . . . ... . . . . . ... ._ .... . ... ... ....... 19 Audits and Independent Assessments ....... .... ... ........ . ... .._.... ............. 19 Data Reduction and Verification .. . .. . .. .. . . . . .. . . .... .. ... . . . . . ............ ...... . . 19 19 5.0 REFERENCES ...............................................................,.............~.....................

ii WlPP Geotechnical Engineering Program Plan WP 07 01, Rev. 2 I .O INTRODUCTION This document defines the field programs and investigations to be carried out by tbe Waste Isolation Division (WID) Geotechnical Engineering Section. The geotechnical engineering programs are designed to provide scientific information necessary to establish a high level of understanding of site characteristics and to assess the stability and performance of the underground facility. Programs currently consist of the following activities:

Geosciences Geomechanical Monitoring Ground Control Rock Mechanics These programs will be implemented and controlled by this program plan.

1.1 Backaround The programs listed in Section 2 will demonstrate the safe disposal of transuranic waste, both in the short term (during the operational life of the facility) and in the long term (following decommissioning), that will satisfy the appropriate federal regulations governing isolation of the waste. The data will increase confidence ,in the effectiveness and safety of the underground operations, validate the design, support site characterization and performance assessment activities, and support activities required for research and technological development.

Drivers for these programs include the Consultation and Cooperation Agreement with the state of New Mexico, which stipulates continuing studies of the site geology; t h e Environmental Protection Agency's standards for management of transuranic waste; the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act; and the Mine Safety and Health Administration. These programs implement the applicable portions of systems AUOO and EM00 System Design Description (SOD). The programs will also ensure that the facility operates safely and that data are available to make decisions for managing and performing engineering and operational activities.

Field activities will be organized into four programs that cover:

Geosciences Rock mechanics evaluation Ground control assessments Data collection from geomechanical instrumentation Each field program will be controlled by a program plan describing the general scope of the investigation, its methods, and quality assurance requirements.

... Ill WiPP Geotechnical Engineering Program Plan WP 07 01, Rev. 2 I .2 Geosciences Proaram The Geosciences Program will continue confirmation of site suitability based on field activities such as geologic mapping of the facility horizon excavations and logging of cores. These activities will be used to characterize, demonstrate the continuity of, and document the geology exposed in the underground excavations. The program also will maintain a storage facility for site generated geologic samples and a local seismic monitoring system.

1.3 Geomechanical Monitorina Proaram The Geomechanical Monitoring Program will provide data on the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP) geotechnical berformance design for design validation and the short term and long term behavior of underground openings, and routine evaluations of the safety and stability of excavations. Data on the stability and closure of underground excavations will be used to identify areas of potential instability and allow remedial actions to be taken.

Monitoring of geotechnical parameters will be performed using geomechanical instruments, including tape extensometer stations, convergence meters, borehole extensometers, piezometers, strain gauges, load cells, crack meters, and other instruments installed in the shafts and drifts of the WIPP facility.

1.4Rock Mechanics Procrram The Rock Mechanics Program will assess of the performance of the underground facility. Data from geomechanical monitoring and geosciences observations will be used to evaluate the current and future performance of the excavations. Numerical modeling and empirical methods will be used to evaluate the effects of proposed design changes and the long term behavior of the underground facility.

1.5Ground Control Proararn The Ground Control Program will ensure that the underground is safe from any unexpected roof or rib falls. It will provide the experience necessary to design ground control systems for the host rock, to monitor ground control system performance through data and observations, and to allow projections to be made regarding future ground support requirements.

2 WIPP Geotechnical Engineering Program Plan WP 07 01, Rev. 2 2.0ADMINISTRATION 2.1 Oraanization The WID organizational structure is described in the WID Quality Assurance Program Description (WP 13 1 ). Geotechnical Engineering reports to the Engineering Department senior manager.

2.2 Remonsibilities The Geotechnical Engineering manager and staff are responsible for achieving and maintaining quality in the geotechnical engineering programs.

2.3Trainina and Qualifications Personnel who perform specific tasks associated with geological and geotechnical data collection, engineering assessments, and quality assurance/ quality control measures will be trained and qualified in the application of the specific requirements to complete their tasks. The minimum training requirements for engineering personnel are identified in the Engineering Technical Training Requirements Policy.

3.0TECHNlCAL PROGRAM DESCRIPTION 3.1 Geosciences Proqram The Geosciences Program contains activities that continue confirmation of site suitability through surface and underground field investigations. These activities wiil generate data used in monitoring the repository and in rock mechanics studies. Information from the Geosciences Program will be used to document the existing geologic conditions and characteristics and to monitor for changes resulting from the excavations. Activities associated with this program will include geologic and fracture mapping, maintenance of a facility for the storage of geologic samples (the Core Library), seismic monitoring and evaluation, and other activities performed as needed. The program will describe the general scope of investigations, the methods, and program requirements. The plan will be updated periodically to reflect additions and changes to the program.

3.1.1 Background The Los Medanos area has been studied since 1974 to assess site capability for isolation of radioactive waste. The present WIPP site was selected in 1976 and has been under continuous investigation since that time as a site for containment and isolation of transuranic radioactive waste. Because geology is the principal factor in the isolation of the waste from the accessible environment, the Geosciences Program provided important data for site characterization and was integral to the decision an the 3 WlPP Geotechnical Engineering Program Plan WP 07 01, Rev. 2 design of the facility. Extensive geologic characterization of drifts and shafts was performed under the Site and Preliminary Design Validation Program for confirmation of site suitability. The program provided the basis for the decision to proceed with construction of the WIPP facility.

The Geotechnical Engineering Geosciences Program was developed to continue confirmation of site suitability based on field activities such as geologic mapping of the facility and near surface stratigraphic horizons, core logging, and geophysical surveys. These activities characterize, demonstrate the continuity of, and document the geology at the site. The program maintains a library of site generated geologic samples and quarterly reporting of the results of local seismic monitoring. The program is also responsible for the collection of geologic and structural data and other section activities as required.

3.1.2 Purpose The purpose of the Geosciences Program is to confirm the suitability of the site based on continuing field activities.

3.1.3 Scope Site investigations will be performed as required, or as determined useful, for enhancement of the site geologic characterization knowledge base. Activities will include reconnaissance geologic mapping of new excavations, detailed geologic mapping, investigations of regional exposures, and geologic support to projects conducted by other site participants. The activities associated with the Geosciences Program are designed to:

Provide additional site geological characterization based on geologic mapping of excavations and core logging Maintain a current data base on mineralogy, chemistry, and textural feature characteristics of the local geology Maintain a current level of knowledge on the geohydrology of the Salado and Rustier Formations based on geologic, hydrologic, and geochemical data Monitor the local seismicity using a series of surface based seismographs. As part of this activity, analyses will be performed to determine if any correlation of seismic events with mining or petroleum recovery operations can be estabtished 3.1.4 Methods Routine tasks will be carried out according to approved WlPP procedures. Activities in 4 WlPP Geotechnical Engineering Program Plan WP 07 01, Rev. 2 development or those not expected to be performed routinely will be performed in accordance with industry standards or individual program plans that supplement this program plan.

Routine Activities Seismic Monitoring  Seismic monitoring and evaluation will be carried out by the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology, a subcontractor to WID.

Geologic Mapping  Geologic mapping will be performed in newly excavated areas and when the cognizant engineer or Geotechnical Engineering manager deems it necessary. The mapping results will be documented in the annual geotechnical analysis reports and appropriate topical reports.

All drifts and rooms in which geologic mapping was not conducted will be visually inspected by the cognizant engineer, or designee, within three months of excavation to verify that the exposed rock units are laterally continuous and similar to those exposed in the mapped areas of the facility. Any unusual features will be reported in the annual geotechnical analysis reports.

Fracture Mapping  Fracture mapping will be performed and carried out by the cognizant engineer, designee, or Geotechnical Engineering manager at locations selected in accordance with accepted industry practice. Observations from boreholes and excavated surfaces will be used in performance assessments of the underground faci I ity.

Core Library Operations  Geotechnical Engineering will maintain a repository for geologic samples that have been determined necessary for long term storage. Approved WlPP procedures define the proper methods for maintaining the sample repository, the submittal of core to the Core Library, maintenance of the Core Storage Facility (inventory, handling, and distribution), authorization for access to view the core on site, and authorization to remove samples from the library.

Other Activities of the Geosciences Proqram Test plans will be developed for geoscience activities that are in a developmental stage or are not routinely performed. They will include or reference the appropriate proce dures to ensure that all necessary steps for completion are carried out. The plans will detail specific plans that describe the activity, location, procedure, etc.

3.2Geomechanical Monitorina Proararn The Geomechanical Monitoring Program will monitor the geomechanical response of the underground openings after mining. It will also monitor geotechnical instruments 5 WlPP Geotechnical Engineering Program Plan WP 07 01, Rev. 2 installed in the shafts and drifts of the WlPP facility. Geotechnical instrumentation installed in the shafts and underground includes tape extensometer points, convergence meters, borehole extensometers, piezometers, strain gages, load cells, and crack meters. The instrumentation is sensitive enough to detect small changes in rock displacements and rock stresses.

Information generated by this program will be documented in annual geotechnical analysis reports. The data will be documented more frequently as recommended by the cognizant engineer or manager. An assessment of convergence measurements and geotechnical observations will be made after each round of measurements. The results of this assessment will be distributed to affected underground. operations, engineering, and safety managers.

This plan describes the general scope of the investigation, methods, and program requirements, and will be updated periodically to reflect additions and changes.

3.2.1 Background The instrumentation system has provided data on the performance of the WlPP design for design validation and for projecting the long term behavior of the underground openings, and routine evaluation of safety and excavation stability. From an opera tional standpoint, the geomechanical data allow the identification of areas of potential instability and for remedial action to be taken. To determine the long term behavior of the repository, assessments will rely heavily on the extrapolation of in situ data, taken over a period of years, to predict thousands of years of repository performance.

The engineering performance of the WIPP host rock is important in the assessment of the design of the operating facility and its long term performance. Of significance are the time dependent properties of the salt. Sandia National Laboratories has carried out extensive experimental work to establish an appropriate, constitutive relationship for salt that can predict its in situ mechanical performance. To validate the adequacy of the facility design, field data from geomechanical instrumentation are used to determine actual mechanical performance of the shafts and excavations at the facility horizon.

3.2.2 Purpose The purpose of the Geomechanical Monitoring Program is to determine the geomech anical performance of the underground excavations at WIPP. Data on stability and closure are needed for operational considerations and for performance assessment.

3.2.3 Scope The activities associated with the Geotechnical Monitoring Program are designed to:

6 WlPP Geotechnical Engineering Program Plan WP 07 01, Rev. 2 Maintain and augment the geotechnical instrumentation system in the WlPP underground and upgrade the automatic data acquisition system as necessary 0 Monitor geotechnical instrumentation on a regular basis and maintain a current data base of instrument readings Evaluate the geotechnical instrumentation data and prepare regular reports that document the data and analyses describing the stability and performance of underground openings Recommend corrective or preventive measures to ensure excavation stability and safe operation of the facility 3.2.4 Methods The process by which geomechanical monitoring of an area is initiated may vary as part of operational excavation monitoring or research testing. Proper documentation and analysis is common to all. Installation and monitoring of the instruments wifl be governed by approved WlPP procedures. The instrumentation will be monitored remotely using data loggers or read manually. Routine tasks will be carried out according to approved WIPP procedures. Activities which are in development, or which are not expected to be performed routinely, will be performed in accordance with industry standards or individual program plans that supplement this program plan.

Data Acquisition The remotely polled instruments are connected to a surface computer through a system of cables, termination boxes, and data loggers. The manually read instruments will be monitored using electronic read out boxes and mechanical measuring devices. The data will be collected on a quarterly basis at a minimum, but more frequent readings may be collected as determined by the cognizant engineer or manager.

Geomechanical Data Loqqincl Svstem The system consists of surface computers, modems, data loggers, and associated interconnecting cabling. The instrumentation is routed to local termination cabinets or accessor boxes at various locations in the underground. These contain the electronic hardware needed for multiplexing, signal conditioning, data conversion, and communi cating with the surface computers, which are connected by a dedicated communica tions data link cable. The surface computers communicate through modems using a series of communication and data management software. programs, The data from the instruments will be maintained in individual data bases for each instrument type.

Instrumentation 7 WIPP Geotechnical Engineering Program Plan WP 07 01, Rev. 2 The instrumentation used at WIPP is widely accepted in the geotechnical and mining industry. Geomechanical instrumentation installed in the shafts and underground includes tape extensometer points, convergence meters, borehole extensometers, rockbolt load cells, pressure cells, crack meters, strain gauges, and piezometers. The instrumentation is sensitive to small changes in rock displacement and stress. The geomechanical instruments will be installed and monitored in accordance with approved procedures or written instructions. Instrument types, monitoring usage, and typical installation locations are listed in the following table.

Data Analvsis and Dissemination of Data The frequency of analyses of geomechanical data will be based on the requirements established in design documents and regulatory requirements, and as determined by the geornechanical instrumentation cognizant engineer. A comprehensive analysis of the data will be performed annually. Results of t h e analyses will be published in geotechnical analysis reports. Data may be released to external sources more 8 WlPP Geotechnical Engineering Program Plan WP 07 01, Rev. 2 frequently with consent from the Department of Energy.

Assessments of the convergence measurements and other geotechnical observations will be performed after each round of complete measurements. Results will be distributed to affected underground operations, engineering, and safety groups. Data analyses may be performed on a more frequent basis, as recommended by the cognizant engineer or manager.

Calibration Measurement and data collection equipment used to read the geotechnical instruments will be calibrated in accordance with approved WlPP procedures. Frequency of calibration will be based on manufacturer recommendations upon receipt of the measuring device at the WIPP site, or as determined by the cognizant engineer. Calibration records will be kept on file in Geotechnical Engineering.

Routine Activities Maintenance will be performed as needed. When an instrument is damaged or erroneous readings are suspected, the instrument will be physically inspected and evaluated for repairs or replacement. If repair efforts are unsuccessful, that instrument will be documented as malfunctioning and monitoring discontinued until the instrument has been replaced or abandoned.

Inspections of the instrumentation and data logging components will be performed during monitoring activities, These inspections check the physical condition of the instrumentation, junction boxes, and cabling for damage, corrosion, and loose parts. Any unusual observations or deterioration will be documented on the Geotechnical Instrumentation System field data sheets and the cognizant engineer will be notified of existing conditions.

The inspection results and performance of the instrumentation and data logging components will be. evaluated by comparing the monitoring results against previous readings. These evaluations will be used to determine whether the geomechanical instrumentation and data acquisition system are performing as anticipated.

9 WlPP Geotechnical Engineering Program Plan . WP 07 01, Rev. 2 Other Activities of the Geomechanical Monitorinq Proqram Test plans will be developed for geomechanical monitoring activities that are either in a developmental stage or not routinely performed. These plans will include or reference the appropriate procedures to ensure that all necessary steps to complete the activity are carried out and will detail specific plans that describe instrument characteristics, locations, procedures, etc. These activities may include the installation and monitoring of new instrument types to evaluate their adequacy for use in salt. Changes to the remote monitoring equipment and software routines will be documented in accordance with approved WIPP procedures.

3.3 Rock Mechanics Proaram This program assesses the current and future performance of the underground facility. Its statistical and empirical data methods and numerical modeling codes, modified for use in salt rock, provide the process for analyzing data collected from geotechnical instruments and visual observations. The results follow approved WlPP procedures and will be published in annual geotechnical analysis reports, or more frequently as recommended by the cognizant engineer or manager.

This program plan describes the general scope, methods, and program requirements of investigations and will be updated periodically to reflect additions and changes.

3.3.1 Background The Rock Mechanics Program assesses of the performance of the WlPP design for design validation and for projecting the long term behavior of the underground openings and routine evaluation of safety and excavation stability. From an operational standpoint, these assessments will allow the identification of areas of potential instability and the application of remedial actions, if necessary. To validate the adequacy of the facility design, field data from geomechanical instrumentation will be used to determine actual mechanical performance of the shafts and excavations at the facility horizon.

Analytical methods, such as numerical modeling, will be used to determine the potential effects of mining new excavations, excavation sequence, and long term behavior of the repository. The engineering performance of the WlPP host rock is important to assess the design of the operating facility and its long term performance. Of significance are the time dependent properties of the salt. Extensive experimental work and observa tions have been used to establish an appropriate, constitutive relationship for salt that is used to predict its in situ mechanical performance. These assessments will rely heavily on the extrapolation of in situ instrumentation data and field observations.

3.3.2 Purpose 10 WlPP Geotechnical Engineering Program Plan WP 07 01, Rev. 2 The Rock Mechanics Program provides the capability to assess the geomechanical response of the surface and underground facility due to mining of the underground.

3.3.3 Scope The activities associated with the Rock Mechanics Program are designed to:

Assess the geotechnical performance of the underground excavations Assess the effectiveness of support systems installed to control areas of potentially unstable ground Assess the appropriateness of the current mine design and periodically evaluate the criteria Provide geotechnical recommendations for the development of mine design criteria based on analytical assessment of the performance of the existing excavations and from modeling of proposed design changes Project excavation performance based on new mining, ground control activities, and facility aging Predict the performance of underground excavations based on instrumentation data and supplemented by analytical studies Maintain a library of numerical modeling codes that include the state of the art understanding of salt rock mechanics Provide recommendations or correctivelpreventive measures to underground operations personnel based on the performance and expected usage of the underground facility 3.3.4 Methods The processes by which rock mechanics activities are completed may vary. Evaluation of the geomechanical performance of the underground openings will use numerical analysis techniques commonly used in the mining and civil engineering industries. The use of these techniques will be governed by WlPP approved procedures for engineering calculations and computer software control.

Routine Activities The following are routine activities of the Rock Mechanics Program:

11 WlPP Geotechnical Engineering Program Plan WP 07 01, Rev. 2 . Geomechanical Data Assessment  Assessments of the instrument data and geologic observations will be performed periodically and reported in the annual geotechnical analysis reports and other more frequent topical reports. Complete data analyses will be performed at least once a year. The frequency of data analyses will be based on the geotechnical performance of the excavations and their operational use. The geotechnical data will be evaluated to determine whether conditions exist which warrant closer or, possibly, immediate attention from a ground control standpoint. Geotechnical assessments measure the stability of the openings with respect to operational safety and long term performance.

Support System Performance Evaluation  New support system technologies will be evaluated as they become available and will be used as they are proven. Several test sections of support systems have been installed and are being monitored. These systems are instrumented to monitor the performance of the system components. This instrumentation, in conjunction with nearby geomechanical instrumentation, allows assessments of the effectiveness of the support system to be performed.

Numerical Modeling  Material modeling codes estimate of the performance of the salt rock material based on the material properties and loading conditions provided to the model. These models can be used to determine the potential effects of mining new excavations on the facility or the long term effect of an excavation on nearby openings. The accuracy of the models can be improved by modifying the code to more accurately represent the actual physical conditions. These modifications may include mesh refinement and the use of input data that more accurately describe the physical properties of the host rock.

Other Activities of the Rock Mechanics Proaram Test plans will be developed for rock mechanics activities that are in a developmental stage or are not routinely performed. These plans will include or reference the appro priate procedures to ensure that all necessary steps to complete the activity are carried out and will detail specific plans that describe the activity, location, procedure, etc.

These activities may include investigations of the geomechanical effect of new mining and mine design changes on the performance of the underground facility and subsidence effects. These investigations may require numerical modeling, materials laboratory testing, and field observations. The results will be used to incorporate the latest understanding of the host rock properties into the modeling codes and analytical techniques.

3.4Ground Control Proqram 12 WIPP Geotechnical Engineering Program Plan WP 07 01, Rev. 2 The Ground Control Program provides comprehensive evaluation of the ground conditions and effectiveness of installed support systems throughout the facility. The evaluations will be based on visual observations, analyses of geomechanical instru mentation data, fracture data acquired from observation boreholes, and rockbolt failure data. The design of new support systems will be based on the results of these evaluations.

Ground control issues have been addressed since excavation began at WIPP. fnitially only minor spalls were observed. However, as the excavations aged and issues associated with the roof beam began to develop, most of the facility was pattern bolted with mechanical anchor rockbolts. Because these bolts provide a basically rigid support system, they have a finite life and supplemental systems are required in areas scheduled for decades of use. The support systems must maintain many areas of the underground accessible for the projected life of the facility.

The information generated by this program will be documented in annual assessment reports. Assessment of the performance of the installed ground support systems are performed as recommended by the cognizant engineer or manager. The results of these assessments will be distributed to affected underground operations, engineering, and safety manager sections.

This program plan describes the general scope of the ground control activities, methods, and program requirements, and will be updated periodically to reflect additions and changes to the program.

3.4.1 Background The operating life of sections of the underground facility may extend to approximately fifty years from the date of excavation. Over time, the strains associated with stress conditions around the excavation result in degradation of the surrounding rock. Safety concerns associated with deterioration of the roof necessitate monitoring, maintenance, and ground control mechanisms to ensure safe working conditions. Roof support systems are currently in place throughout the facility; however, because of creep closure, they may undergo severe stress, have a limited service life, and require periodic replacement.

Many options ar6 currently available for ground control in the mining industry. Technologies used in potash and salt mines are the most applicable to WlPP because of the similar behavior of the rock. A comprehensive testing and evaluation program has been used to determine which ground support components and/ or systems are most applicable to specific project requirements. This program consists of many aspects that include continuous visual inspections of the underground opening, extensive geomechanical monitoring, numerical modeling, analysis of rockbolt failures, implementation of ground control procedures, and comprehensive in situ and laboratory testing, and evaluation of ground support components and systems.

13 WlPP Geotechnical Engineering Program Plan WP 07 01, Rev. 2 The excavations vary in geometry, geology, age, and operational use. These differences affect the selection of ground control measures, but the ability of the salt to creep or flow with time has the greatest impact on selection of support systems. Salt creep exerts strong forces, both vertical and horizontal, on any control mechanism. During the time that the underground has been active, a variety of ground control issues have been encountered ranging from minor spalling to roof falls.

3.4.2 Purpose The Ground Control Program provides the strategies for development and selection of the most applicable and efficient means of maintaining and monitoring the ground conditions of the WIPP underground to ensure safe and operational conditions. The selection of ground control fixtures is in accordance with 30 CFR u 57, Subpart B, "Ground Control."

3.4.3 Scope The program is continually evolving. Current associated activities include:

Addressing ground control concerns and design and implementation of ground support systems on a case by case basis installing and monitoring of small scale and full scale in situ support systems for evaluation Identifying and/ or developing new ground control technologies that have application to WIPP conditions Documenting and evaluating ground support system component failure Evaluating the effects of new mining and mine design changes on the effectiveness of installed ground support systems, proposed installations, and the stability of the excavation 3.4.4 Methods Thorough evaluations of the ground conditions and support system performance throughout the facility will be performed annually. Some areas may be evaluated more frequently as conditions warrant, These evaluations will provide information necessary to address the near term ground control needs and for long term ground control planning.

Three basic options are available to address unstable ground conditions: (I) support 14 WlPP Geotechnical Engineering Program Plan WP 07 01, Rev. 2 the ground, (2) remove the ground, or (3) discontinue access. The first two options are engineering alternatives while the third option is an administrative decision. The ground control design criteria are based on long term objectives, experience, performance of existing systems, laboratory and in situ tests of selected ground control components and/ or systems, numerical analysis, and site specific geotechnical data. These criteria may be modified to accommodate technological advances, geologic conditions, or operational requirements.

Routine Activities Ground support systems will be installed in accordance with approved written instructions. Monitoring of the geotechnical instruments that monitor the performance of the support systems will be performed routinely and carried out according to approved WlPP procedures.

Other Activities of the Ground Control Program Activities which are in development, or which are not expected to be performed routinely, will be performed in accordance with industry standards or individual program plans that supplement this program plan.

4.0QUALITY ASSURANCE The WlPP Geotechnical Engineering programs are governed by the WID Quality Assurance Program Description. Steps to ensure quality will be incorporated, as needed, in the technical procedures used for geotechnical engineering activities. The Geotechnical Engineering manger, or assigned designee, is responsible for developing and maintaining this program plan and associated procedures.

4.1 Desian Control Items and processes will be designed using sound engineering/ scientific principles and appropriate standards. Design work, including changes, will incorporate appropriate requirements such as general design criteria and design basis. Design interfaces will be identified and controlled. The adequacy of products will be verified by individuals or groups other than those who performed the work. Verification work will be completed before approval and implementation of the design.

4.2 Procurement Procurement will be carried out in accordance with the appropriate policies and procedures. Technical requirements and services will be developed and specified in procurement documents. If deemed necessary, these documents will require suppliers to have an adequate quality assurance program to ensure that required characteristics are attained.

15 WlPP Geotechnical Engineering Program Plan WP 07 01, Rev. 2 4.3 Instructions. Procedures and Drawinas Quality affecting activities performed by, or on behalf of, the geotechnical engineering programs will be performed in accordance with written plans or approved procedures. WlPP general procedures will be used for procurement, document control, and quality assurance.

Technical procedures will be developed for routine quality affecting functions. The procedures will include in process and final quality controls and documentation require ments. The procedures will be as detailed as required and include, when applicable, quantitative or qualitative acceptance criteria to determine that activities have been satisfactorily accomplished. Procedures will be developed in accordance with existing WlPP procedures.

4.4 Document Control Documents that prescribe processes, specify requirements, or establish design will be prepared, approved, issued, and controlled. Controls will ensure that the latest approved versions of procedures are used in performing geotechnical functions, and that obsolete materials are removed from work areas. The Geotechnical Engineering manager will identify the individuals responsible for the preparation, review, and approval of geotechnical engineering controlled documents.

4.5 Control of Purchased Material, Eauioment. and Services Measures will be taken, in accordance with current WlPP procurement policies and procedures, to ensure that procured items and services conform to specified requirements. These measures will generally include one or more of the following:

Evaluation of the supplierk capability to provide items or services, in accordance with requirements, including the previous record in providing similar products or services satisfactorily Evaluation of objective evidence of conformance, such as supplier submittals Examination and testing of items or services upon delivery If it is determined that additional measures are required to ensure quality in a specific procurement, additional steps may be included in procurement documents and implemented by Geotechnical Engineering personnel and/ or the Quality and Regulatory Assurance Department. These additional assurances may include source inspection and audits ,or surveillance at the suppliers! facilities.

16 WlPP Geotechnical Engineering Program Plan WP 07 01, Rev. 2 4.6 Identification and Control of Items Measures will be used to ensure that only correct and accepted items are used at WIPP. All items that potentially affect the quality of the geotechnical engineering programs will be identified and controlled to ensure traceability and prevent the use of incorrect or defective items.

4.7 Test Control Testing or experimentaI/ monitoring activities will be in accordance with written plans or procedures that contain the following provisions, as applicable:

Purpose, scope and/ or definition Prerequisites such as calibrated instrumentation and supporting data; adequate test equipment and instrumentation, including accuracy requirements; completeness of item to be tested; suitable and controlled environmental conditions; and provisions for data collection and storage Instructions for performing the test Any mandatory inspection and/ or hold points to be witnessed by WID or other designated representatives Acceptance and rejection criteria Methods of documenting or recording test data Requirements for qualified personnel Evaluation of test results by authorized personnel Test or experirnental/ monitoring procedures prepared by other project participants (e. g., Sandia National Laboratories) used as WID procurement documents will be reviewed to ensure that the documents are complete and the tests described by the documents are adequate to determine that the involved equipment, systems, or structures are operationally acceptable.

4.8 Software Reauirements Computer program procurement, design, and testing activities that effect quality refated activities performed by WID or its suppliers will be accomplished in accordance with approved procedures (WP 16 1, WlPP Computer Protection Plan).

17 WlPP Geotechnical Engineering Program Plan WP 07 01, Rev. 2 Test requirements and acceptance criteria will be specified, documented, and reviewed and will be based upon applicable software requirement, design, or other pertinent technical documents. Required tests, including verification, hardware integration, and in use tests, will be controlled.

Testing of software will, at a minimum, verify the capability of the computer program to produce valid results for test problems encompassing the range of permitted usage defined by the program documentation. Testing will also be designed to identify and eliminate any serious defect that could, for example, cause a crash.

Depending on the complexity of the computer program being tested, requirements may range from a single test of the completed computer program to a series of tests performed at various stages of computer program development to verify correct translation between stages and proper working of individual modules. This will be followed by an overall computer program test.

Any software to be developed on site (by WID personnel or others) (i. e., noncommercial software) will follow the requirements of NQA 2.7, and shalI include, at a minimum, a requirements document, a design document, a validation and verification plan, a software quality assurance plan, a testing plan and procedures, a configuration management plan, and appropriate user manuals. These will be reviewed and approved by appropriate WID personnel.

Regardless of the number of stages of testing performed, verification testing and validation will be of sufficient scope and depth to establish that software functional test requirements are satisfied and that the software produces a valid result for its intended function.

4.9 Control of Monitorina and Data Collection EauiDment Monitoring and data collection equipment will be controlled and calibrated in accordance with applicable WlPP controlled procedures. Results of calibrations, maintenance, and repair will be documented. Calibration records will identify the reference standard and the relationship to national standards or nationally accepted measurement systems.

Calibration reports and operability test data will be maintained by Geotechnicat Engineering. Any out of tolerance condition will be evaluated for potential impact on the validity of data. Impact evaluation and corrective actions will be initiated per specific Geotechnical Engineering instructions.

18 WlPP Geotechnical Engineering Program Plan WP 07 01, Rev. 2 4.10 Handlina. Storaae. and Shiminq Handling, storage, and shipping of items will be coordinated in accordance with established procedures or other specific documents. Geotechnical Engineering is responsible for storing, handling, and shipping rock core and other geologic samples.

4.1 I Control of Nonconformina Conditionslltems Conditions adverse to quality will be documented and classified in regard to their significance. Corrective action will be taken accordingly.

Equipment that does not conform to specified requirements will be controlled to prevent its use. Faulty items will be tagged and segregated. Repaired equipment will be subject to the original acceptance inspections and tests prior to use.

4.12 Corrective Actions Conditions adverse to acceptable quality will be documented and reported in accordance with corrective action procedures and corrected as soon as practical. Immediate action will be taken to control work, and its results, performed under conditions adverse to acceptable quality in order to prevent degradation in quality.

The Geotechnical Engineering manager, or designee, will investigate any deficiencies in activities in accordance with approved procedures.

4.13 Records Manauernent Identification, preparation, collection, storage, maintenance, disposition, and permanent storage of records will be in accordance with approved WlPP procedures.

Generation of records will accurately reflect completed work and facility conditions and will comply with statutory or contractual requirements. The Geotechnical Engineering Records and Inventory and Disposition Schedule describes the classification and disposition for all records generated by the group. While in their custody, the records will be protected from loss and damage in accordance with approved WlPP procedures and they will coordinate with Project Records Services (PRS) for transfer of quality records to PRS. They are also responsible for the Core Library in the Core Storage Building where records will be maintained of all Core Library activities, including additions, removal of any material, any tests performed on the core, a record of people who examine the core on site, and any other alterations made to the core.

4.14 Audits and IndeDendent Assessments Planned periodic assessments will be conducted to measure management and item 19 WlPP Geotechnical Engineering Program Plan WP 07 01, Rev. 2 quality and process effectiveness, and to promote improvement. The organization performing independent assessments will have sufficient authority and freedom to carry out its responsibilities. Persons conducting assessments will be technically qualified and knowledgeable of the items and processes to be assessed.

4.15 Data Reduction and Verification Computer programs, commercial data processing applications, and manual calculations that collect or manipulate/ reduce data will be verified. Verification must be performed before the presentation of final results or their use in subsequent activities. If it becomes necessary to present or use unchecked results, transmittals and subsequent calculations will be marked "preliminary" until such time that the results are verified and determined to be correct.

, 5.0 REFERENCES Title 30 CFR 57, Subpart B, "Ground Control" Title 40 CFR 1 194, Section 42, "Monitoring" WP 13 1, Quality Assurance Program Description WP 16 1, WlPP Computer Protection Plan 20 GIs FIELD DATA SHEET DATE 3 '% z '9 TIME 9' 10 READINGS BY FIELDTAG ENTITY READING G I S I D C G H F 4

SKETCH OF INSTALLATION I F E D VIEW LOOKING NORTH STATION E520  SI841 INSTRUMENT TYPE CVPT READING DEVICE SINCO SERIAL NUMBER CHECK DATE Y l 4 9 7 COMMENTS GIs FIELD DATA SHEET FIELDTAG ENTITY READING 1 GISID I SKETCH OF INSTALLATION . I STATION INSTRUMENT TYPE ,m,

READING DEVICE d,

SERIAL NUMBER 3 CHECK DATE Lf /; L d / 7 9 COMMENTS F E 0 VIEW LOOKING NORTH GIs FIELD DATA SHEET SKETCH OF INSTALLATION : T 1 F E 0 C ~

VIEW LOOKING NORTH STATION E520  S3717 INSTRUMENT TYPE CVPT READING DEVICE SINCO SERIAL NUMBER 3 3 a g CHECK DATE 2 0 9 9 COMMENTS Prevj o u v S1688 GIs FIELD DATA SHEET DATE 3 fJA f9? TIME 9 :o/ READINGS BY 1 I .

SKETCH OF INSTALLATION a VIEW LOOKING NORTH E520 51758  STATION INSTRUMENT TYPE .2.

READING DEVICE .SfNCO.

SERIAL NUMBER 3 3 2 f CHECK DATE COMMENTS 4 /a O l ' i 7 E520 51758  STATION INSTRUMENT TYPE .2.

READING DEVICE .SfNCO.

SERIAL NUMBER 3 3 2 f CHECK DATE COMMENTS 4 /a O l ' i 7 SKETCH OF INSTALLATION 4 H A F E D E520  SI802 STATION INSTRUMENT TYPE CVPT READING DEVICE SINCO SERIAL NUMBER 3318 CHECK DATE q /u /7 9 Previouslv SI775 COMMENTS VIEW LOOKING N Q B 3 . GIs FIELD DATA SHEET DATE 3fDzI* TIME 9 : /o READINGS BY dl% khhbi FIELDTAG ENTITY READING GISID SKETCH OF INSTALLATION ;

F E D VIEW LOOKING .NORTH STATION F520  SI841 INSTRUMENT TYPE m,

READING DEVICE SERIAL NUMBER 3 3 1 8 CHECK DATE 5/ /2 0 /9 ?

COMMENTS CVPT FIELD DATA CHECKPRINT DATE TIME GlSlD FEET INCHES DIAL W99 08: 47 3/ 22/ 99 08: 47 3/ 22/ 99 08: 47 3122199 08: 47 3/ 22/ 99 0853 3/ 22/ 9? 3 0853 3 m 9 0857'

3/ 22/ 99 0857"

3/ 22/ 99 09: Ol 3/ 22/ 99 09: Ol 3/ 22/ 99 09: Ol 3/ 22/ 99 09: Ol 3/ 2z99 rn 06

Y22m 09m 37zm9 09: m 3/ 22/ 99 09: m 16505 16504"

16921 16922 16944

16729 1673 1 16728 16665 16346 16760 '

16725

16739 16740 16742 16741'

Y6785

16344 16726 m727 10 10 31 31 11 c 10 38 11 l&

30 10 ?l

10

10 I'

30^

10 lt3 30 =

10 11  16733 . 11 2 10 2

0 O C 10 8

8 8 .>

6 4 =

4 6,

10 6'

10 8*

6&

6.

2 4  0.168 .

t. 320 1.240 t. 843 0162 '

1.037 0.118 1.153 0.265 1.163 1.117 T. 562 t 959 1.528 0.771 t .834 1.011 0.942

Q 1 €lo*

€k37lS 1.259 I CVPT FIELD DATA CHECKPRINT DATE TIME GiSlD FEET INCHES DIAL 3/ 22/ 99 09: lO 3/ 22/ 99 09: lO 3/ 22m 09: lO 3/ 22199 09: 14 3/ 22/ 99 09r14 3m99 0977 3/ 22/ 99 09: 17 3/ 22/ 94 09: 19 m 9 9 0920 v m 9 0920 W 9 9 09: 21 W 9 9 09: 23 J22199 09: 25 1/ 22/ 99 09~ 26 122/ 99 09128 m 9 9 0929 122/ 99 09: 30 1W99 09: 30 122199 09: 30 m 9 09: 35 09% 16735  16%

16648

I6647 16744 16746 16 372 16886 16957 16885 16884 16883 16882 16881 18203 18217 18218 18220 18204 182l1 30 11 11 30 . 11

10 11 1?

31 . 10 10 10 10 10 12 12 12 12 12 12 4 4 2 10 2 10 4 2 2 10 10 6 4 4 2 4 .

10 10 8 6 0.076 0.368 1.662 t. 159 0225 0.721 0.777 0.638 0.188 0.016 1.734 0.656 0.493 0.898 0.237 1.303 0.719 0.248 0.666 0.974 I 1.978 CVPT FIELD DATA CHECKPRINT 3122199 m36 3122199 0959 3/ 22lW 09: 39 3/ 22/ 99 09: 39 3/ 22/ 99 09: 39 3/ 22/ 99 09x3 3WW 09x3 3/ 22/ 99 09: 47 3/ 22/ 99 09: 47 3/ 22/ 99 09: 47 DATE TIME GlSlD FEET INCHES DIAL 3/ 22199 0947 .3m99 09: s 322199 0953

%22/ 99 09: m w 9 9 09: s 3/ p199 09: s m 9 9 09: s .3/ 22/ 99 10: 05 3/ 22/ 99 10: 05 3/ 22199 10: 07 18212 'a 31 18213 182f4'

18215 18216 18201.

18202 18205 18206 18207 38208 *

1 8209 *

18210 18197 '

181 99.

78198'

18200 18195 18196 I81 94

18190 ' 121,

13*

31

12 1 2%

3 Z y 12 k 1 2 3f'

12 12 30

?T 3 P 72'

t2'

12h 31 *

12 1 11 6 2 0 2 10 2 '

a 4

6 6 8 6 10 *e .2 '

4 u 8 '

10 0 2 10 4.737 1.663 i 0.281 4 0.217 0r328 1.610 t. 769 0.520 '

0.748 0.193 0.478 t 438 0.940 0.347 *

o..! ju6'

+: 907' .

1.095 '

0.652 0.497 0.485 0.285 l CVPT FIELD DATA CHECKPRINT DATE TIME GlSlD FEET INCHES DIAL I 3m99 10: 09 3/ 22/ 99 10: 09 3/ 22/ 99 10: 14 3/ 22/ 99 10: 14 3/ 22/ 99 10: 14 3/ 22/ 99 10: 14 3/ 22/ 99 10: 19 m 9 9 10: 19 w 9 9 10: 19 V22/ 99 10: 28 1122/ 99 10128 /22199 10: 30 /22f99 10: 30 122199 10: 42 122/ 99 10: 43 tw99 lo:&

122199 lo:&

3/ 22199 10: M 3/ 22/ 99 1050 3/ 22/ 99 1051 3/ 22/ 99 10153 18191 18193 165%

16555 16947 a 16948 16492 16493 16945 16497 16797 16629 16512 16674 16877 16876 16451 16965 16874 16873 18240 12 12 9 9 32 . 32 9 9 .

31 10 a 30

10 31 10 10 10 30 10 12 10 10 0 2 8 .

10 2 2 1 0.

4

6 2 8 8

2 0 4 10 8 8 0 a 2 0.829 0.626 0.753 1.833 t. 282 1.379 0.421 I 1.647 1.360 0.753 1.243 1.035 0.420 1.126 1.795 0.61 3 7.780 0.078 1.986 0.255 1 .ai I d I C  CVPT FIELD DATA CHECKPRINT IDATE TIME GlSlD FEET INCHES DIAL I 3/ 22/ 99 1053 3/ 22/ 98 1056 3/ 22/ 99 1057 3/ 22/ 99 1057 3/ 22/ 99 1057 3/ 23L99 09141 3/ 23/ 99 09: 43 3/ 23/ 99 09: 43 3/ 23/ 99 09: 43 3/ 23/ 99 09: 43 3/ 23/ 99 10: 40 3/ 23/ 99 10: 40 3/ 23/ 99 10: 40 3/ 23/ 99 10: 40 3/ 23/ 99 10: 40 3/ 23( 99 10: 40 3/ 23/ 99 1050 3/ 23/ 99 10: 50 3/ 23/ 99 1050 3/ 23/ 99 1053 16987 16490 16738 16736 .

16737 18287 18284 18285 t 1 8286 18249 18326 18282 181 45 18247 1 8248 18280 18142 1 a277 30 10 10 10 11 la '

18 *

18 '

18 '

24 19 19 23'

24

25 .

19 19 19 24 18 6 2 8:

6 1 6 0 a .

8 10 4 4.

4 6 6.

2 2 0 0 2 2 0.421 1.167 0.066 1.021 1.165 1.026 1.71 7 1.469 0.234 1.209 0.576 1.177 0.170 0.635 0.176 1.110 0.545 0.877 0.043 1 .ow Date: 3/ 24/ 99 Checkprint# 1 Time: 9: 13 AM Records Printed: 104 Checked By /L 4 I I r I 1 I I I I I I I I I I I I I DOEITWIPP 98 3 118 Geotechnical Analysis Report for July 1996  June 1997 September 1998 Y Y Waste Isolation Pilot Plant mE3 WP I I I I I I I I i 1 1 i i i 1 1 i Table of Contents List of Tables ; ............. iv List of Figures v 1.0 Introdmion ..................... : ................................................................................................ 1 1 1.1 Location and Description ........................................................................................ 1 1 1.3 Development Status ................................................................................................ 14 1.4 Purpose and Scope of Geomechanical Monitoring Program .................................. 1 6 1.4.1 Instrumentation ........................................................................................... 1 6 1.4.2 Data Acquisition .......................................................................................... 1 6 1.4.3 Data Evaluation ........................................................................................... 1 8 1.4.4. Data Errors .................................................................................................. 1 9 2.0 Geology 2 1 2.1 Regional Stratigraphy .............................................................................................. 2.1 2.1.1 Castile Formation .......................................................................................... 2 1 2.1.2 Salado Formation .......................................................................................... 2 3 2.1.3 Rustler Formation .......................................................................................... 2 3 2.1.4 Dewey Lake Redbeds .................................................................................... 2.3 2.1.5 Dockum Group .............................................................................................. 2 4 2.1.6 Gatuiia Formation. Mescalero Caliche. and Surficial Sediments .................. 2 4 Underground Facility Stratigraphy ......................................................................... 2 5 2.2. I Disposal Horizon Stratigraphy ...................................................................... 2 5 Performance of Shafts and Keys ...................................................................................... 3 1 3.1 Salt Handling Shaft ................................................................................................. 3 1 3.1 . 1 Shaft Performance ....................................................................................... 3 1 3.1.2 Instrumentation ........................................................................................... 3 1 3.2 Waste Shaft ............................................................................................................. 3 5 3.2.1 Shaft Performance ....................................................................................... 3 5 3.3 Exhaust Shaft .......................................................................................................... 3 9 3.3.1 Shaft Performance ..................................................................................... 3 11 3.3.2 Instrumentation ......................................................................................... 3 11 Air Intake Shaft ..................................................................................................... 3 11 .................................................................................................................... .................................................................................................................................

1.2 Mission .................................................................................................................... 1 4 ..

............................................................................................................................

2.2 2.2.2 Experimental Area Stratigraphy .................................................................... 2 7 3.0 3.2.2 Instrumentation ........................................................................................... 3 5 3.4 i 4.0 5 . 0 6.0 7.0 8.0 9.0 10.0 3.4.1 Shaft Performance ..................................................................................... 3 15 3.4.2 Instrumentation ......................................................................................... 3 15 Performance of Shaft Stations .......................................................................................... 4 1 4.1 Salt Handiing Shaft Station ..................................................................................... 4 1 4 . I . 1 Modifications to Excavation ....................................................................... 4 1 4.1.2 Instrumentation ........................................................................................... 4 1 Waste Shaft Station ................................................................................................. 4 5 4.2.1 Modifications to Excavation ....................................................................... 4 5 4.2.2 Instrumentatiop ........................................................................................... 4 7 Performance of Access Drifts ........................................................................................... 5 1 5.1 Modificationshlaintenance ..................................................................................... 5 1 5.2 Instrumentation ....................................................................................................... 5 1 5.2. I Borehole Extensometers .............................................................................. 5 1 5.2.2 Convergence Points ..................................................................................... 5 4 5.3 Excavation Performance ......................................................................................... 5 4 5.4 Analysis of Convergence Data ................................................................................ 5 4 Performance of Northern Experimental Area .................................................................. 6 1 6.1 ModificationsNaintenance ..................................................................................... 6 1 6.2 Instrumentation ....................................................................................................... 6 1 6.2. I Borehole Extensometers .............................................................................. 6 1 6.2.2 Convergence Points ..................................................................................... 6 1 6.2.3 Wire Convergence Meters .......................................................... ......._..... .... 6 3 6.3 Excavation Performance ......................................................................................... 6 3 6.4 Performance of Waste Disposal Area ............................................................................ ~7 ~

7.1 Modifications to Excavations .............................................................................  .... 7 1 7.2 Instrumentation ....................................................................................................... 7 2 7.3 Excavation Performance ......................................................................................... 7 2 7.4 Analysis of Convergence Data ................................................................................ 7 5 4.2 Analysis of Convergence Data ................................................................  ............... 6 3 Geosciences Program ....................................................................................................... 8 1 8.1 Borehole Inspections ............................................................................................... 8 1 Geologic Core Lo_ gging ........................................................................................... 8 4 8.2 8.3 Summary ............................................................................. ................................... ........ 9 1 References and Bibliography ........................................................................................ 10 1 10.1 Cited References ................................................................................................... 10 1 Geologic and Fracture Mapping of Excavation Surfaces ....................... e._. ............ 8 3 .. 10.2 Selected Bibliography ... ... . . . . ... . Q .. . . .. . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . , . .. . . . . . . .. . . .... . . . . .. . ... . . 10 3 Appendices: Appendix A  Corrected Tables of Separation and Offset in Observation Boreholes for the 1995 1996 Reporting Period ... 111 I . 0 Introduction This Geotechnical Analysis Report (GAR) interprets and presents the geotechnical data from the underground excavations at the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP). The data, used to characterize conditions, assess design assumptions, and clarify and evaluate the performance of the underground excavations during operations, are obtained as part of a regular monitoring program.

GARS have been available to the public since 1983. During the Site and Preliminary Design Validation (SPDV) Program, the architectlengineer for the project produced these reports on a quarterly basis to document the geomechanical performance during and immediateiy after construction of the underground facility. Since the completion of the construction phase of the project in 1987, the reports have been prepared annually by the management and operating contractor for the facility. This report describes the performance and conditions of selected areas from July 1 , 1996, to June 30, 1997. This report is formatted into nine chapters. The remainder of Chapter 1.0 provides background information on the WIPP site, its mission, and the purpose and scope of the geomechanical monitoring program. Chapter 2.0 describes the local and regional geology of the WIPP site. Chapters 3.0 and 4.0 describe the geomechanical instrumentation located in the facility shafts and shaft stations and the results of the monitoring and interpretation of this instrumentation. Chapters 5.0,6.0, and 7.0 present the results of geomechanical instrumentation monitoring in the three main portions of the WIPP underground facility; the Northern Experimental Area, the access drifts, and the Waste Disposal Area. Chapter 8.0 discusses the activities included in the Geosciences Program, which includes geologic core mapping, fracture mapping, and borehole observations. The final chapter. Chapter 9.0. summarizes the results of the geomechanical instrumentation monitoring and compares the current excavation performance to the system design requirements.

1.1 Location and Description The WIPP is located in southeastern New Mexico, 42 kilometers (km) (26 miles) east of Carlsbad (Figure 1 1). The surface facilities were built on the flat to gently rolling hiIls that are characteristic of the Los Medaiios area. The underground facility is being excavated approximately 655 meters (m) (2,150 feet [ft]) beneath the surface, in the Salado Formation. Figure 1 2 shows a plan view of the underground facility at the WIPP, site as i t is currently.

1 1 I' 2 Figure 1 1 General Location of the WIPP Facility .

1 2 Portion o i the Facility Deactivated in September 1996 Not to Scale Figure 1 2 Schematic of Current Underground Facility 1 3 1: I 1 1 I 1 I 1 1 I ' I I I I i ! 9.0 Summary At the beginning of the WTPP project, criteria were developed that address the requirements for the design of the WPP (DOE, 1984). These criteria, in the form of design requirements, covered all aspects of the mined facility and its operation as a pilot plant for the demonstration of technical and operational methods for permanent disposal of CH and RH TRU waste. As the WIPP developed and the focus moved toward the permanent disposal of TRU waste, these design requirements were reassessed and replaced in 1994 by a new set of requirements called system design descriptions (SDD). Table 9 1 shows the comparison of these SDDs with conditions actually observed in the underground from July 1996 to June 1997.

Fracture development in the roof is primarily caused by the concentration of compressive stresses in the roof beam and is influenced by the size and shape of the excavation and the stratigraphy in the immediate vicinity of the opening. Pillar deformations induce lateral compressive stresses into the immediate roof and floor. With time the buildup of stress causes differential movement along stratigraphic boundaries. This differential movement is identified as offsets in observation boreholes and is indicated by bending deformation in failed rockboits. Large strains associated with lateral movements in the roof can induce fracturing in the roof, which is frequently seen near the ribs. This scenario of roof deterioration, combining a buildup of compressive stresses over time, horizontal offsetting, and large strains associated with lateral movements, is substantiated by observations of similar roof deterioration in SPDV Room 1. SPDV Room 2, and the E140 drift between S IO00 and S 1950.

Major modifications to the underground during this reporting period consisted of roof beam removal in the E140 drift in the area of S 1000 to S1300. The decision to remove the beam came as a result of operational scheduling and convenience as well as observations of roof beam deterioration. Observations included high expansion rates across clay G found from extensometer data, visual observation of fracturing within the immediate roof, and an increasing number of bolt failures occurring in the area. Although the roof beam could have been maintained through roof control measures, it was also determined that operationally it was an appropriate and convenient time to remove the roof beam. Data from convergence point arrays located in the E 140 drift between S 1000 and S 1300. which were installed after the roof beam was removed, indicate the vertical closure rate after roof beam removal is constant at approximately 4 c d y r ( 1.5 in/ yr). Data from convergence point arrays in the E140 drift between S 1300 and S 1950 show a relatively constant vertical closure rate since the removal of the roof 9 1 Table 9 1 Comparison of Excavation Performance to System Design Descriptions System Design Description SDD UHOO. Underground Hoisting. Section <IP_ADDRESS>.3 Section <IP_ADDRESS> Section 2. f. 2.8 hydrostatic pressure.. . ." piezometers located behind the shaft keys in the Waste Shaft and the Exhausr Shaft remains below design levels. Piezometers located in the Salt Handling Shaft were not functioning during this reporting period. Historic data indicate water pressures in the Salt Handling Shaft to be below design levels. The Salt Handling Shaft liner continues to resist water inflow into the shaft. Efforts are underway to determine if the piezometers in the Salt structurally sable. Extensometers located in the Salt Handling Shaft and the Exhaust Shaft were not functioning during this reporting period. Historic data indicate that closure of a11 the shafts remains within design "The key shall be designed to retain the rock formation and will be provided with chemical seal rings and a water collection ring with drains to prevent water from flowing down the unlined shaft from the lining above." The small amount of groundwater inflow into the shafts is effectively controlled through grouting. Seepage into the Exhaust Shaft is minimal and the source and content of such seepage are being characterized (Intera 1997. IT, 1997). I I I I !

!

j I ! i I I i I i i I 1 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Table 9 1 (Continued) Comparison of Excavation Performance to System Design Descriptions System Design Description Requirement SDD AUOO, Undermound Facilities and Eauipment, Section <IP_ADDRESS>. Underground Disposal Facilities `The underground waste disposal facilities shall be designed to provide space and adequate access for the underground equipment and temporary storage space to support underground operations."

"The underground waste disposal facilities shall be designed to provide the 2.2* 1.2* Underground (Continued) capability of reuieving the emplaced CH an& RH TRU waste?

"Entries and sub entries to the `

underground disposal area and tht experimental areas shall be provided and sized for personnel safety, adequate air flow, and space for equipment." Section <IP_ADDRESS>, Underground Shaft Pillar Facilities ;DD EMOO. Environmental vfonitorinq. Section 2.2.5. I "Geomechaoical instrumentation shall be provided to measure the cumulative deformation of the rock mass Comments Geomechanical instrument data and visual observations indicate that the current design provides adequate access and storage space.

retrievability i s no longer necessary.

Deformation of excavation remains within the required limits. The northern portion of the underground from approximately NSOO was deactivated during this reporting period because the area is no longer needed for experimental purposes. This area is no longer accessible.

Approximately 1.5 meters (5 feet) of roof; up to clay G, was removed in the E140drift from SI000 to S1300.

Geotechnical instrumentation is operated and maintained to meet this requirement. Additional georechnical instruments were installed in various parts of the WIPP underground (including the E140 drift. Room 7. Panel 1 , and SPDV Room 4) during this reporting period.

Geotechnical experts agree that the monitoring program at the WIPP has been proven adequate. specifically with regard to the instrumentation in Room 1 . Panel 1 (DOE. 199 I b).

beam, despite the fact that the rate in some areas is approximately 5 c d y r (2 idyr). These rates and visual observations indicate a more stable roof beam in the E140 drift between S 1000 and S 1950. In order to monitor the response of the new roof beam, 14 convergence point arrays have been installed in the E140 drift between S 1000 and S 1950 since the roof beam was removed.

The in situ performance of the excavations generally continues to satisfy the appropriate design criteria. although specific areas are being identified where deterioration resulting from aging 9 3 Attachment D. 2 Hydrological Do cum en ts I Effective Date: 3/ 12 WP 02 1 Revision 3 Groundwater Surveillance Program Plan Cognizant Section: Environmental Monitorina Approved By: Siqnature on file D. R. KumD Cognizant Department: ESH Approved By: Signature on file C. F. Wu WP 02 1 Rev. 3 GROUNDWATER SURVEILLANCE PROGRAM PLAN TABLE OF CONTENTS 1 1 .Q INTRODUCTION ..............................................................................................

1 2.0 REFERENCES .................................................................................................

1 3.0 RESPONSIBILITIES .........................................................................................

3 GSP QUALITY ASSURANCE PLAN ................................................................ 4.0 3 4.1 Introduction.. 4 4.1 .I Department of Energy (DOE) Order 5400.1 .......................................... 4 4.1.2 4 4.1.3 Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) .............................. 4 4.1.4 Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) Commitments ................ 4 4.1.5 Future Land Use Decisions ................................................................... 5 GSP Quality Assurance Requirements ........................................................ 5 4.2.2 Quality Assurance Program.. ................................................................. 5 4.2.3 Design Control ....................................................................................... 5 4.2.4 Procurement Document Control ............................................................ 5 4.2.5 Instructions, Procedures, and Drawings ................................................ 6 4.2.6 Document Control .................................................................................. 6 4.2.7 Control of Purchased Material, Equipment and Services ...................... 6 4.2.8 Identification and Control of Items ......................................................... 7 4.2.9 Control of Processes ............................................................................. 7 4.2.10 Inspection/ SurveilJance.. ............................................................... 7 4.2.11 Test Control ................................................................................... 8 4.2.12 Control of Monitoring and Data Collection Equipment .................. 8 4.2.13 Handling, Storage, and Shipping .................................................. 8 4.2.14 Inspection and Acceptance Testing .............................................. a 4.2,15 Control of Nonconforming Conditions ........................................... 9 4.2.16 Corrective Action ........................................................................... 9 4.2.17 Quality Assurance Records ........................................................... 9 4.2.18 Assessments ................................................................................. .....................................................................................................

DOEEH 01 73T ......................................................................... ; ............

4.2 IO GSP WATER QUALITY SAMPLING PLAN .................................................... 10 5.1 Scope ...................................................................................... d IO 5.1 .I General ................................................................................................. 7 4 5.2 Surveillance Well Construction .................................................................. 13 5.3 Sampling Proqram Description ................................................................... 13 5.3.1 Serial Sampling .................................................................................... 13 5.3.2 Final Samples ...................................................................................... 14 5.4 Groundwater Pumpinq and Sampling Svstems .......................................... 16 5.5 Pressure Monitorinq Svstems ........ ..:. ........................................................ 16 5.6 Sample Analvsis ......................................................................................... 5.0 ................... WP 02 1 Rev. 3 GROUNDWATER SURVEILLANCE PROGRAM PLAN ..................................................................................... 17 18 19 19 21 5.6.1 Serial Samples 5.6.2 Rnal Samples ...................................................................................... ................ 5.7 5.8 Sample Preservation, Trackinq, Packaging and Transportation Qualitv Assurance, Records Management and Document Control ............

5.9 Calibration Requirements ...........................................................................

6.0 6.1 6.2 6.3 6.4 6.5 6.6 6.7 ............................................................ WATER LEVEL MONlTOR" PLAN 21 Scope 21 Records and Document Control ................................................................. ......................................................................................................... ................................................................................................ 21 htroduction .................................................................................................... 22 Obiective 24 Field Methods 24 Repodinq .................................................................................................... 25 .......................................................................... 25 c a1 i brati on Requirements. ............................................................................................. WP 02 1 Rev. 3 GROUNDWATER SURVEILLANCE PROGRAM PLAN 1 .o INTRODUCTION This is the controlling document for the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP) Groundwater Surveillance Program (GSP). The GSP is administered as part of the WlPP Environmental Monitoring Program by the Environmental Monitoring (EM) Section of the Environment, Safety and Health (ES& H) Department.

2.0 REFERENCES DOE Order 5400.1 , General Environmental Protection Program DOEIEH 01 73T, Environmental Regulatory Guide for Radiological Effluent Monitoring and Environmental Surveillance Groundwater Protection Management Program Plan WP 02 3, Environmental Procedures Manual WP IO AD. WlPP Maintenance Administrative Procedures Manual WP 12 1 , Waste Isolation Pilot Plant Safety Manual WP 12 1 07, Hazard Communication Program WP 13 1, WID Quality Assurance Program Description WP 15 6, Purchasing Policies and Procedures Manual WP 15 PR, Records Management Plan 3.0 RESPONSIBILITIES The overall organizational structure of the Westinghouse WID is described in Part I , Section 1 of the Quality Assurance Program Description (QAPD). The GSP is the responsibility of the ES& H Department. The GSP is conducted by the EM Section of this department.

The EM manager assumes responsibility for the overall design and implementation of the GSP including the following areas:

0 Development and approval of specific procedures for €he conduct of all GSP activities.

1 WP 02 1 Rev. 3 GROUNDWATER SURVEILLANCE PROGRAM PLAN 0 0 Establishment of minimum qualification criteria and training requirements for all program personnel. Review and approval of programmatic reports.

0 Oversight of appropriate levels of cooperation and consultation between the EM Section and the state of New Mexico regarding environmental monitoring.

1 Preparation of the QA section of the GSP Plan.

The EM manager and staff are responsible for achieving and maintaining quality in the GSP. Job descriptions will be maintained for the EM manager, professional, technical, and administrative staff positions. All GSP data shall be reviewed and approved by the EM manager, or designee, prior to release.

The EM manager appoints a GSP Team Leader (TL), assigning the following responsibilities to the TL:

0 Direct GSP per written approved procedures.

I] Initiate review of programmatic plans and procedures.

0 Review and evaluate sample data.

0 Prepare and review programmatic reports.

0 Assure that appropriate samples are collected and analyzed.

I] Assure that adequate technical support is provided to the Quality and Regulatory Assurance (Q& RA) Department, when required during audits of vendor facilities.

The EM manager designates one or more scientists, engineers, or technicians who will be responsible for the following items:

Collection and subsequent distribution of samples.

Preparation and maintenance of appropriate data sheets and sample tracking documentation.

Monitoring of equipment operability status.

Reporting of equipment malfunctions.

Reporting of nonconformance to the TL or EM manager.

2 WP 02 1 Rev. 3 GROUNDWATER SURVEILLANCE PROGRAM PLAN 0 Overseeing of quality control checks of data.

0 Conducting field activities in accordance with written procedures.

The Q& RA manager provides independent oversight of the GSP, via the assigned cognizant Q& RA engineer, to verify that quality objectives are defined and achieved. The Q& RA manager ensures objective, independent assessments of GSP quality performance. The Q& J# manager has been delegated authority and given organizational freedom by the WID General Manager to access work areas, identify quality problems, initiate or recommend corrective actions, verify implementation of corrective actions, and ensure that work is controlled or stopped until adequate disposition of an unsatisfactory condition has been implemented.

The EM manager assures that basic qualifications for GSP personnel are carried out in accordance with Section 2 of the QAPD.

The EM manager assures that position descriptions for assigned GSP personnel are adequately prepared. Each position description will include position purpose, principal responsibilities, nature of work, and scope.

The EM manager andlor TL assures that training is performed on an individual basis to maintain an acceptable level of proficiency by all new or temporary GSP staff and by all permanent GSP staff.

New GSP employees are required to review pertinent program documentation, become familiar with applicable procedures, and complete appropriate qualifications prior to undertaking any unsupervised GSP task, To become qualified to perform a specific task or series of tasks, an employee must demonstrate subject knowledge and practical skills and become certified in performing the task( s) by a board certified subject matter expert (SME). Employees who have not completed the appropriate qualification card will not be allowed to conduct unsupervised GSP activities.

The EM manager, TL, or task SME may determine the need for retraining of GSP personnel. Retraining may be noted by Q& RA during any sur% eillance or audit or during a periodic review initiated by the EM manager, TL, or SME.

The EM manager assures that documents detailing all staff training are current and properly filed. Copies of training records shall be on file in the WID Technical Training Sect ion.

3 WP 02 1 Rev. 3 GROUNDWATER SURVEILLANCE PROGRAM PLAN 4.0 GSP QUALITY ASSURANCE PLAN 4.1 Introduction This section is the quality assurance (QA) plan for the WIPP GSP. The objective of this QA plan is to establish the specific QA requirements associated with the GSP. The GSP currently consists of two activities: the Water Quality Sampling Program (WQSP) and the Water Level Monitoring Program (WLMP). Technical implementation of each specific activity is controlled by an individual program plan and unique operating procedures. The GSP provides a mechanism for addressing the following:

4.1.1 Department of Energy (DOE) Order 5400.1 Chapter 3 of the DOE Order 5400.1, General Environmental Protection Program, states that I ' ... all Department of Energy (DOE) sites will conduct a groundwater protection management program." The order requires each ui) E site to provide for the design and implementation of a groundwater monitoring effort that supports resource management and complies with applicable environmental laws and regulations.

4.1.2 DOE/ EH 0173T DOE/ EH 01 73T, Environmental Regulatory Guide for Radiological Effluent Monitoring and Environmental Surveillance, states that:

It is the policy of DOE to conduct effluent monitoring and environmental surveillance programs that are adequate to determine whether the public and the environment are adequately protected during DOE operations and whether operations are in compliance with DOE and other applicable Federal, State, and local radiation standards and requirements. It is also DOE policy that Departmental monitoring and surveillance programs be capable of detecting and quantifying unplanned releases and meet high standards of quality and credibility. It is DOE'S objective that all DOE operations properly and accurately measure radionuclides in their effluent and in ambient environmental media.

4.1.3 Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA)

By virtue of a Groundwater Monitoring Waiver, prepared under 40 CFR 265, the WlPP Project is not required to monitor groundwater to comply with the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) RCRA. The WlPP GSP provides a basis for future compliance to the RCRA, as well as any other groundwater protection related regulations, should the need arise.

4 WP 02 1 Rev. 3 GROUNDWATER SURVEILLANCE PROGRAM PLAN 4.1.4 Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) Commitments Section 5.2.2 of the FEIS states that "... long term groundwater sampling and water level monitoring will be conducted as part of the WlPP Environmental Monitoring Program."

4.1.5 Future Land Use Decisions Data collected from the program will aid in making future groundwater land use decisions (Le., designing long term and passive institutional controls for the site).

This QA plan is driven by, and is supplemental to, both the WID QAPD, WP 13 1, and implementing WlPP Q& RA procedures.

4.2 GSP Qualitv Assurance Requirements The following specific Q& RA requirements are unique to the GSP.

4.2.2 Quality Assurance Program This plan is governed by the following documents: WP 13 1, WID Quality Assurance Program Description; and WP 02 3, Environmental Procedures Manual. Steps to ensure quality are incorporated, as needed, in the technical procedures used for groundwater surveillance activities. The EM manager or assigned designee is responsible for developing and maintaining this QA plan and groundwater surveillance procedures.

In accordance with the WID QAPD, Part I, Section 1, groundwater surveillance data activities are classified as Quality Code 11.

4.2.3 Design Control The design control requirements used by Westinghouse at the WID are described in Part 11, Section 6 of the QAPD. The GSP will adhere to all applicable portions of these requirements when performing design activities.

4.2.4 Procurement Document Control Procurement is carried out in accordance with WID procurement policies and procedures, as outlined in Part I I , Section 7 of the QAPD, and WP 15 6, Purchasing Policies and Procedures Manual. Both documents require specification of a quality code and design class and concurrence by the Q& F! A Department with procurement documents, Technical requirements for procured items and services are developed and specified in procurement documents. the required characteristics, procurement adequate QA program. If deemed necessary to ensure attainment of documents may require suppliers to have an 5 WP 02 1 Rev. 3 GROUNDWATER SURVEILLANCE PROGRAM PLAN 4.2.5 Instructions, Procedures, and Drawings Provisions and responsibilities for the preparation and use of instructions and procedures at the WIPP are outlined in Part II, Section 4 of the QAPD. Quality affecting activities performed by or on behalf of groundwater surveillance are required to be performed in accordance with documented and approved procedures.

Technical procedures have been developed for each quality affecting function performed for groundwater surveillance. The technical procedures unique to the GSP are contained in the procedures sectien of this manual. The procedures are as detailed as required and include, when applicable, quantitative or qualitative acceptance criteria to determine that activities have been satisfactorily accomplished.

Procedure requirements are in accordance with Section 4 of WP 13 1. Procedures will be prepared in accordance with applicable technical writer's guides.

4.2.6 Document Control Requirements for the control of documents are outlined in Part I i , Section 4 of the WID QAPD. Controls ensure that the latest approved versions of procedures are used in performing groundwater surveillance functions and that obsolete materials are removed from work areas.

4.2.7 Control of Purchased Material, Equipment and Services WlPP policy requirements and associated responsibilities for the control of purchased material, equipment, and services are outlined in Part II, Section 7 of the QAPD. In accordance with current WlPP procurement policies and procedures, measures will be taken to ensure that procured items and services conform to specified requirements. These measures will include one or more of the following:

I] An evaluation of the supplier's capability to provide items or services in accordance with the requirements, including the history of providing similar products or services satisfactorily.

[I An evaluation of objective evidence of conformance, such as supplier submittal (i. e., QA plan).

[I An examination and testing of items or services upon delivery.

If it is determined that additional measures are required to ensure quality in a specific procurement, additional steps may be provided in procurement documents and implemented by groundwater surveillance staff andlor the Q& RA Department. These additional assurances may include source inspection and audits or surveillance at the 6 WP 02 1 Rev. 3 GROUNDWATER SURVEILLANCE PROGRAM PLAN supplier's facilities.

4.2.8 Identification and Control of Items Measures to ensure that only correct and accepted items are used at the WlPP are outlined in Part 11, Section 8 of the QAPD. All items that potentially affect the quality of the GSP are uniquely identified and controlled to ensure that only accepted items are used.

Equipment is administered in accordance with WP IO AD, WlPP Maintenance Administrative Procedures Manual. Calibration reports test data are maintained by the EM Department. Any "out of tolerance" condition is evaluated for potential impact on the validity of data. Impact evaluation and corrective actions are initiated per specific GSP instructions.

4.2.9 Control of Processes All process control requirements of the QAPD are met by the GSP.

4.2.1 0 JnspectionlSurveillance Inspection and surveillance activities are conducted as outlined in Part It, Section 10 of the QAPD. The Q& RA Department is responsible for performing the applicable inspections and surveillance on the scope of work. Performance checks are performed by groundwater surveillance personnel as specified by the appropriate procedures, and by WID m6trology laboratory personnel. Performance checks for the GSP are designed to determine the acceptability of purchased items and to assess degradation that occurs during use.

4.2.1 1 Test Control Part I I , Section 8 of the WID QAPD outlines the requirements and responsibilities of the WID for the control of tests. Tests to be performed for the GSP fall into two general categories: tests of items upon receipt and in service, and operability checks of equipment.

All tests are performed in accordance with documented and approved' plans and/ or procedures. Testing or experirnental/ monitoring plans or procedures contain the following provisions as applicable:

0 Scope and/ or definition or scope.

El Prerequisites such as calibrated instrumentation and supporting data; adequate test equipment and instrumentation, including accuracy requirements; completeness of item to be tested; suitable and controlled 7 WP 02 1 Rev. 3 GROUNDWATER SURVEiLLANCE PROGRAM PLAN environmental conditions; and provisions for data collection and storage.

Instructions for performing the test.

Mandatory inspection andlor hold points to be witnessed by the WID or other designated representatives.

Acceptance and rejection criteria.

Methods of documenting or recording test data.

Requirements for qualified personnel.

Evaluation of test results by authorized personnel.

Control of Monitoring and Data Collection Equipment Monitoring and Data Collection (M& BC) equipment is controlled and calibrated according WP 1 0 AD, WIPP Maintenance Administrative Procedures Manual, to ensure continued accuracy of groundwater surveillance data. Results of calibrations, maintenance, and repair are documented. Calibration records identify the reference standard and the relationship to national standards or nationally accepted measurement systems. Records are maintained to track uses of M& DC equipment. If M& DC equipment is found to be out of tolerance, the equipment is tagged and its use ceased until corrections are made. An evaluation shall be approved by the EM manager and corrective measures will be taken, as needed.

4.2.1 3 Handling, Storage, and Shipping Handling, storage, packaging, and shipping of groundwater samples are controlled in accordance with WP 10 AD, WlPP Maintenance Administrative Procedures Manual. Proper documentation is prepared and maintained for each sample to minimize damage, loss, deterioration, and extraneous exposures.

4.2.14 Inspection and Acceptance Testing Measures used by the WID to ensure that required inspections and tests performed are outlined in Part II, Section 8 of the WID QAPD. Controls are implemented in accordance with documented procedures to ensure that items are not used pnor to passing required inspections and tests. The status is identified on the items or on documents traceable to the items. Items that have not been accepted are identified as such and stored separately from accepted items. The operating status of equipment is identified on the equipment or on the equipment list. Faulty equipment is tagged and, if practicable, physically segregated from the work area.

8 WP 02 1 Rev. 3 GROUNDWATER SURVEILLANCE PROGRAM PLAN 4.2.15 Control of Nonconforming Conditions Part I I , Section 8 of the WID QAPD describes the system used at the WlPP for ensuring that appropriate measures are established to control nonconforming conditions. Nonconforming conditions connected to the GSP are identified in and controlled by documented procedures. Equipment that does not conform to specified requirements is controlled to prevent use. The disposition of defective items is documented on records traceable to the affected items. Prior to final disposition, faulty items are tagged and segregated. Repaired equipment is subject to the original acceptance inspections and tests prior to use.

4.2.16 Corrective Action Requirements for the development and implementation of a system to determine, document, and initiate appropriate corrective actions after encountering conditions adverse to quality at the WlPP are outlined in Part I , Section 3 of the QAPD. Conditions adverse to acceptable quality are documented and reported in accordance with corrective action procedures and corrected as soon as practical. Immediate action will be taken to control work performed under conditions adverse to acceptable quality, and its results, to prevent degradation in quality.

The EM manager or designee investigates any deficiencies in groundwater surveillance activities to determine if there is an underlying root cause. All such actions are documented and reported to the Q& RA Department.

4.2.17 Quality Assurance Records Part I, Section 4 of the QAPD outlines the policy used at the WIPP regarding ientification, preparation, collection, storage, maintenance, disposition, and permanent storage of QA records. The EM manager or designee is responsible for the preparation and distribution of records in accordance with appropriate DOE Orders, policies, and directives.

Records to be generated in the GSP are specified by procedure. QA records are identified. This is the basis for the labeling of records as "QA" on the EM Records Inventory and Disposition Schedule (RIDS).

QA records document the results of the GSP implementing procedures and are sufficient io demonstrate that all quality related aspects are valid. The records will be identifiable, legible, and retrievable in accordance with WP 15 PR, WID Records Management Plan, and QA record procedures.

While in the custody of the GSP group, the records shall be stored in a UL fisted, one hour fire resistant cabinet. The EM manager shall coordinate with WlPP Project Records Services (PRS) for both periodic and perpetual transfer of records to PRS.

9 WP 02 1 Rev. 3 GROUNDWATER SURVEILLANCE PROGRAM PLAN 4.2.1 8 Assessments Provisions and responsibilities for assessments are outlined in Part i l l , Sections 9 and '1 0, of the QAPD. Periodic, independent assessments of the GSP shall be scheduled, planned, and performed to verify that work is performed in accordance with specified requirements. The Independent Assessment Section has the responsibility and oversight authority for appraising GSP activities for compliance with applicable environmental statutes. Assessment teams will not include members of the GSP staff. Assessments are performed in accordance with applicable assessment procedures.

5.0 GSP WATER QUALITY SAMPLING PLAN 5.1 S c m e This section of the WlPP GSP Plan serves as the controlling document for the WQSP The WQSP is a subprogram of the GSP.

The WQSP was initiated in January 1985. The objective of the program is to collect representative and reproducible groundwater samples from water bearing zones in the area of the WlPP site. The purpose of the program is to provide defensible data for meeting the requirements of site characterization, performance assessment, regulatory compliance, and permitting. A program plan that defined the basic structure and operational activities of the program was initially developed by Colton and Morse (1985). The program plan was replaced in 1987 by WP 07 2, Waste Isolation Pilot Plant Water Quality Sampling Manual. In 1991 the WQSP manual was replaced by WP 02 1, Waste Isolation Pilot Plant Groundwater Monitoring Program Plan and Procedures Manual ~

5.1 .I General From 1984 to 1990, the WQSP was designed to characterize the physical and chemical characteristics of representative groundwater samples occurring within and immediately surrounding the WlPP site. Various wells were serially sampled, three times each, to determine the representative character of the groundwater present at each location. Data collected were supplied to the ES& H Department and used to develop a baseline of water quality data as part of the Radiological Baseline Program. A nonradiological database was developed to support the background water quality characterization report. Data were also supplied to and used by Sandia National Laboratories (SNL) for site characterization and performance assessment. By the close of 1990, the groundwater of interest had been characterized, and the objective of the program shifted from characterization to surveillance.

On October 1, 1988, the ES& H Department assumed responsibility for the WQSP. Water quality sampling activities were coordinated with the Environmental Monitoring 10 WP 02 1 Rev. 3 GROUNDWATER SURVEILLANCE PROGRAM PLAN Program.

Collection of groundwater quality data continues to assist the DOE in meeting performance assessment, regulatory compliance, and permitting requirements. The data also provide: