Methodology of independent software nuclear safety analysis

Abstract

Independent software nuclear safety analysis provides a methodology to ensure that software does not cause or contribute to a violation of the nuclear safety standards established by the Department of Defense, and that nuclear safety-critical software is not adversely affected by interfacing software or by operator action. This methodology is a systematic approach to examine a specific aspect of software system safety in nuclear weapon systems. The paper describes the methodology of independent software nuclear safety analysis, and discusses its extension to other application areas.<>