Review of TVA Dam Safety Program

This review was the result of broad interest surrounding the safety and condition of TVA dams after the ash spill at the Kingston Fossil Plant. The objectives of this review were to determine if TVA's Dam Safety Program identified and adequately addressed significant risks, was in compliance with TVA policies and procedures as well as applicable laws and regulations, and encompassed all the aspects of a comprehensive dam safety program. This review found TVA was taking steps to identify and mitigate its risks; adhering to the federal guidelines for dam safety with a few exceptions; and had a comprehensive dam safety program, but opportunities existed to strengthen the program. Specifically, we found:TVA was moving from being reactive to proactive by mitigating and anticipating risks. However, based on interviews with TVA plant personnel, we identified improvement opportunities that would further enhance the identification and mitigation of dam safety risks.TVA's policy was to follow the federal guidelines for dam safety, although not required under federal law. TVA is adhering to the federal guidelines with the exception of certain aspects of the operations and maintenance (O&M) manuals, training and awareness program, and emergency action plans (EAPs).TVA management agreed with our findings and recommendations and has taken or plans to take corrective actions.