Enhancement of Decommissioning Training in the IAEA

Abstract

Significant progress has been made in recent years in improving the quality of decommissioning training and expanding the training options available to those in IAEA MS with developing programmes. In this paper we examine the issues and challenges associated with such training, and the initiatives being taken to address them, especially those to improve hands-on opportunitites aimed at improving decommissioning planning and the physical execution of decommissioning activities. The important role played by the IAEA waste management Networks in providing training opportunitites and facilitating the exchange of knowledge and lessons learned is discussed. Expectations and initial steps to create a powerful web-based platform (CONNECT) providing the Network participants with efficient means of access to each other, to qualified experts on specific topics, and to high quality training materials is described. The essential role played in the success of these initiatives by the generous contributions of professionals and organizations in Memebr States with developed programmes is identified and acknowledged.