Commercial Nuclear Power Plant Training Program Evaluation for Non-licensed Operators: a Delphi Approach

Abstract

This study was concerned with the establishment of detailed qualification criteria on a generic basis for the position of non-licensed operator of a commercial nuclear power plant. The specific objectives included determining general educational requirements and specific technical areas of study necessary or desirable for the non-licensed operator, as well as the type of plant-specific orientation and training that he or she should receive during the first few months of employment. The additional education, training, and experience qualifications necessary for an individual filling the position of a non-licensed operator were also examined. A series of three questionnaires incorporating the Delphi Technique was used to gather data and opinions from commercial nuclear power plant training coordinators (both corporate and site), university educators in the nuclear power area, regulatory agencies auditing training programs for non-licensed operators and management personnel involved with non-licensed operators. Information thus collected was analyzed against majority opinion criteria, and specific qualification elements were identified and ranked in order of importance.