Implementation of V&V Tasks for Improving Nuclear I&C System Software Safety

As more computer-based instrumentation and control (I&C) systems are used in nuclear power plants (NPPs), software safety becomes more and more important for safe and reliable operation of NPPs. Based on the hidden nature of software itself, its safety needs to be guaranteed by being strictly verified and validated in the process of software development to eliminate the potential design faults. The tasks performed by verification and validation (V&V) personnel play an important role in improving safety of I&C system software used in NPPs. Three key V&V tasks including traceability analysis, hazard analysis and safety testing are highlighted; their relationship and implementation methods are discussed; the implementation methods can be applied or referenced in future software safety V&V and improving digital I&C system safety.