ML19326C974

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Discusses Operator Training & Examination & Nuclear Power Plant Simulators Used in Training Since 1968
ML19326C974
Person / Time
Site: Arkansas Nuclear Entergy icon.png
Issue date: 10/03/1974
From: Collins P
US ATOMIC ENERGY COMMISSION (AEC)
To: James Anderson
ARKANSAS POWER & LIGHT CO.
References
NUDOCS 8004290606
Download: ML19326C974 (2)


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ATOMIC ENERGY COMMISSION WASHINGTON. O.C. 10545 CCT 3 1974 Docket No 50 313 Arkansas Power & Light Company ATTN: Mr. J. W. Anderson, Jr.,

Plant Superintendent THIS DOCUMENT CONTAINS J

Arkansas Nuclear One P00R QUAllTY PAGES P.O. Box 603 Russellville, Arkansas 72801 Gentlemen:

Nuclear power plant simulators were introduced into operator training programs in 1969. In the time since their introduction the Operator Licensing Branch has carefully evaluated their role in the training programs. Based on this evaluation the Operator Licensing Branch has approved increased use of appropriate simulators in the admin-istration of the operator licensing program.

First, the applicants seeking licenses prior to criticality at a facility were given appropriate credit for participating in training programs that utilized acceptable simulators. Then, training programs were approved that utilized simulators for facilities after which the simu-ulators were modeled. Further, the use of appropriate simulators was permitted in meeting certain requirements of the operator requalifi-cation programs.

We have now determined that it is acceptable to use nuclear power plant simulators in determining the qualifications of individuals who apply for licenses after initial criticality.

Presently, applicants for licenses, after the facility has achieved criticality must participate in training programs that include, at least, two reactor startups at the facility for which he seeks a license to meet the eligibility requirements to sit for an examination. In addition, applicants must perform a startup of the reactor as part of the operating test.

The Operator Licensing Branch will consider training programs that utilize appropriate nuclear power plant simulators for startup ex-perience for meeting the startup eligibility requirements to sit for i

e.s: amination. In addition, a reactor startup will not be required as

. part of the operating test, providing that appropriate certification regarding an individual's ability to manipulate the controls is contained in his applicatien.

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2 OCT 3 1974 In order for the applicant to be eligible for this alternate program, the following requirements must be met.

1.

The applicant has manipulated the controls of his reactor facility during five significant reactivity changes, which may, or may not, include reactor startups.

2 The applicant has participated in an AEC-approved training program that includes training at a nuclear power plant simulator, and 3

The application contains a certification from the simulator training center attesting to the applicant's:

a.

ability to manipulate the controls and keep the reactor under control during a reactor startup, b.

ability to predict instrument response and use the instrumentation during a reactor startup, c.

ability to follow the facility startup procedure and d.

ability to explain alarms and annunciators that may occur during this operation.

The simulators used in the programs must meet the present require-ments for simulators enumerated in Paragraph 3.c., Appendix A of 10 CFR Part 55, namely, that the simulator reproduce the general opera-ting characteristics of the facility involved, and the arrangement of instrumentation and controls of the simulator is similar to that of the facility involved.

The present procedure for training and examining will be continued for those facilities who do not desire to use the alternate procedure des-cribed above.

I hope this information will be of use to you. If you have any questions, please contact me.

Sincerely, f

Paul F. Collins, Chief Operator Licensing Branch Directorate of Licensing