Training to ensure safe, reliable operations

Continuous learning is part of any profession. Our nuclear professionals are no exception; indeed, no industry requires as much continuous training as commercial nuclear power generation. Training is needed to ensure safe, reliable operations for the generation of life-essential electricity.

All nuclear teammates go through training for initial qualifications based on their job function and must maintain proficiency in skills. We also train and practice for emergency operations. It is not unusual for personnel to train on something related to emergency response and operations on a weekly basis. Scenario-based training helps operators develop competence and experience to handle any emergency imaginable.

Training is especially important for our reactor operators licensed by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. Besides regular classroom training, each nuclear site maintains a control room simulator, which is an exact replica of the actual control room. Instructors use a computerized system to mimic scenarios and operators practice responding. The simulator is a test of operator technical skill and team effectiveness. Following the scenario, the team engages in a critique where they assess performance and define subsequent training opportunities.

But this isn’t an annual process. Operators engage in technical and scenario-based training one week out of every five, or about 10 weeks every year. As a comparison, consider the training requirements for other licensed professions. The field that requires the most formal education is medical. To get a medical license to practice, you would need a four-year college degree, followed by four years of medical school. Doctors also typically have 3-7 years of practicum experience required. Once past that, doctors usually are required to get a minimum of 20 hours a year of continuing education.

A reactor operator does not necessarily require a four-year degree, however most have either a four-year degree or a military background. Some operators have served years on a US Navy submarine or other nuclear power field before they work at a commercial power plant. Once at the plant, the operator must complete 18-24 months of formal training on the specific plant they will be licensed for. Once licensed, there is no profession that invests as much time in continuing education. Licensed operators must average 160 hours per year over the two-year license period. In practice, however, the training program for licensed operators is much more robust than the minimum 160 hours. Typically, an operator spends every fifth week in training.

Here is a comparison of various professions:

Why so much training?

Operators are accountable to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission as the licensing agency so training is tailored to meet the mandated regulated requirements. In addition, the nuclear industry makes heavy use of learning from operating experience. Operators learn their specific plant, but also learn about other plants across the industry, especially regarding any significant events. For example, after the earthquake and tsunami hit the plant at Fukushima Daiichi, we incorporated new equipment, procedures and training at our plants. Finally, training includes human performance and teamwork. Operators always work in teams, and so part of their training is about how to better perform as a team member and to help other teammates.

Learn more.