Public/About SQUG

SQUG is an EPRI Users Group that develops, maintains, supports, and broadens the use of earthquake experience data as a cost-effective method for seismic qualification of equipment. Introduction to SQUG covers use of the experience-based method developed by SQUG and its advantages in seismically qualifying equipment for use in nuclear power plants.

Listed below is a brief summary of the history of SQUG with a link to a more comprehensive description of the history of the organization. A brief description of how SQUG is organized and managed is also provided at the bottom of this page. A description of SQUG background and use in regulatory activities is provided at this file: Review of SQUG Background.

If your organization is interested in becoming a member of SQUG, the Information for Prospective Members describes the group, the beneficial use of the experience-based seismic qualification method developed by SQUG, and the benefits of membership in organization.

History of SQUG

SQUG was formed in 1982 by U.S. utilities with older nuclear power plants that were subject to resolution of the NRC’s Unresolved Safety Issue (USI) A-46, “Seismic Qualification of Equipment in Operating Plants.” After developing a cost-effective method of using experience data to resolve this generic issue, other companies, both in the U.S. and internationally, joined SQUG to be able to also apply this method at their facilities. For many years SQUG was available as a Supplementally funded EPRI User Group, available to facility owners of nuclear plants and other interested facilities. SQUG is now an EPRI Base funded organization and all EPRI Nuclear Members are SQUG Members. SQUG continues to be available to other facility owners who are interested in using the SQUG methods as an EPRI Supplemental program.

A comprehensive summary of the History of SQUG is also provided.

Organization and Management of SQUG

EPRI provides the administrative and technical umbrella under which SQUG operates. An EPRI Project Manager administers the group with advice and consultation from a Member's Steering Group and support from EPRI contractors. The Steering Group is comprised of Member representatives who meet several times a year to advise on SQUG activities, research priorities, and Member’s SQUG related needs.

SQUG typically has an annual Member’s meeting to discuss recent activities such as earthquake investigations and research and to discuss planned and potential future activities.