[DOE LETTERHEAD]

September 16, 2002

The Honorable John T. Conway
Chairman
Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board
625 Indiana Avenue, NW
Suite 700
Washington, DC 20004-2901

Dear Mr. Chairman:

The Secretary asked me to respond to your July 17, 2002, letter regarding the recommendations of the Department of Energy (DOE) Commission on Fire Safety and Preparedness as they may affect defense nuclear facilities. We are in the process of developing this response and more time is needed to provide one that outlines the specific actions that DOE will take to implement these recommendations. The response will be completed within 30 days.

Sincerely,

Beverly A. Cook
Assistant Secretary
Office of Environment, Safety and Health