Quantitative Evaluation of NDE Reliability

A comprehensive reliability programme is being performed by the UKAEA and CEGB which is studying aspects such as inspection procedures, equipment, and data interpretation and reporting(1). The influence of management and organisational aspects, and psychological and environmental factors are also being investigated, and the importance of these aspects has recently been highlighted by Behravesh et al(2). The information produced will enable recommendations to be made on methods of eliminating or controlling potential errors. These recommendations should, when coupled with a demonstration of the capability of the procedures, lead to objective and auditable assurance of the overall reliability of the inspection