Training Program Evaluation: Current Regulatory Activities

Abstract

A Training Program Evaluation Section (referred to subsequently as the Evaluation Section) was created within the Operator Certification Division (OCD) of the Atomic Energy Control Board (AECB) in September of 1991 as part of a regulatory "Initiatives" program. The Evaluation Section is charged with regulatory evaluation of training programs for nuclear utility operations personnel, a new endeavour for the AECB. This paper reports on the activities the section has carried out so far, its methods, and its future plans. Historically, the Operator Certification Division (OCD) has administered a rigorous series of written examinations for nuclear utility staff desiring to obtain AECB authorization as senior operators or shift supervisors. In July, 1991, OCD staff presented an "Initiatives" program to senior nuclear utility training management; the "Initiatives" program is proceeding in two phases to create a new regulatory regime for the qualification of nuclear operations: personnel. Phase 1 of the program is accomplishing four main goals: (1) creation of regulatory "Position Statements" which specify the methods and criteria the AECB uses to assess the competence of operations personnel and the quality of their training, (2) examination of prospective senior operators and :shift supervisors by means of performance-based tests in full-scope simulators, (3) consolidation of some of the written examinations so that performance-related skills and knowledge are tested on the simulator and not by written examination, and (4) systematic evaluation of utility initial and continuing training programs. The fourth goal of systematic training program evaluation required the formation of a new section dedicated to fulfilling this function.