ML25349B300
| ML25349B300 | |
| Person / Time | |
|---|---|
| Site: | National Bureau of Standards Reactor |
| Issue date: | 12/11/2025 |
| From: | US Dept of Commerce, National Institute of Standards & Technology (NIST) |
| To: | Office of Nuclear Reactor Regulation |
| Shared Package | |
| ML25349B298 | List: |
| References | |
| Download: ML25349B300 (0) | |
Text
Document: Administrative Rule 2.1
Title:
NBSR Requalification Plan NBSR Guide, Plan, Policy, Program Information Use Revision:
1 Page 1 of 20 The authorized version of this document is in the online Procedure Library Latest Revision Changes Revision Description 1
Updated plan to ensure compliance with regulatory and NBSR document control requirements TABLE OF CONTENTS 1.
PURPOSE............................................................................................................... 2 2.
DEFINITIONS.......................................................................................................... 3 3.
REQUALIFICATION PROGRAM............................................................................. 6 3.1.
General Requirements...................................................................................... 6 3.2.
Refresher Training............................................................................................ 7 3.3.
Written Examination Content............................................................................ 8 3.4.
Written Exam Administration and Evaluation.................................................... 9 3.5.
Medical Examination....................................................................................... 10 3.6.
Operating Test Content................................................................................... 11 3.7.
Operating Test Administration and Evaluation................................................ 13 3.8.
Document Review........................................................................................... 14 3.9.
On-The-Job Training and Proficiencies........................................................... 15 3.10.
License Function Requirement.................................................................... 16 3.11.
Exemptions.................................................................................................. 17 3.12.
License Renewals....................................................................................... 17 4.
CONDITIONAL LICENSES AND RESTRICTIONS................................................ 18 4.1.
Medical Restrictions........................................................................................ 18 5.
DOCUMENTATION AND RECORDS.................................................................... 18 5.1.
Documentation................................................................................................ 18 5.2.
Records........................................................................................................... 19 6.
REFERENCES....................................................................................................... 20
Document: Administrative Rule 2.1
Title:
NBSR Requalification Plan NBSR Guide, Plan, Policy, Program Information Use Revision:
1 Page 2 of 20 The authorized version of this document is in the online Procedure Library
- 1.
PURPOSE 1.1.
At the NIST Center for Neutron Research (NCNR), the National Bureau of Standards Reactor (NBSR) Requalification Program is intended to maintain and enhance the proficiency of licensed operators by providing refresher training in these areas: infrequent operation; reviewing facility and procedural changes; reinforcing rarely used knowledge; and addressing identified performance weaknesses.
1.2.
The program evaluates each operators knowledge and ability to perform licensed duties and provides retraining when necessary. Emphasis is placed on subjects critical to maintaining continued operational competence.
1.3.
Successful completion of the Requalification Program is required for operators to continue performing licensed duties and for license renewal, in accordance with the requirements of 10 CFR 55, Operators Licenses.
1.4.
The program is developed and conducted in accordance with the applicable content of the following standards and regulations:
10 CFR 55 ANSI/ANS-3.4-2013, Medical Certification and Monitoring of Personnel Requiring Operator Licenses for Nuclear Power Plants, Section 5.7.
ANSI/ANS-15.4-2016, Selection and Training of Personnel for Research Reactors
Document: Administrative Rule 2.1
Title:
NBSR Requalification Plan NBSR Guide, Plan, Policy, Program Information Use Revision:
1 Page 3 of 20 The authorized version of this document is in the online Procedure Library
- 2.
DEFINITIONS 2.1.
Actively performing the functions of an operator or senior operator: An individual has a position on the shift crew that requires the individual to be licensed as defined in NRC License No. TR-5, Appendix A, Technical Specifications for the NIST Test Reactor (NBSR), and that the individual carries out and is responsible for the duties covered by that position.
2.2. Controls
When used with respect to a nuclear reactor, controls means apparatus and mechanisms the manipulation of which directly affects the reactivity or power level of the reactor.
2.3.
Designated medical examiner: A licensed medical practitioner, either a Doctor of Medicine or a Doctor of Osteopathy, familiar with the medical provisions of this standard and the general responsibilities and work environment of the examinee.
2.4.
Disqualifying conditions: Something that precludes unconditional medical approval for research reactor operator licensing.
2.5. License
The written authorization, by the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), for an individual to carry out the duties and responsibilities associated with a position requiring licensing.
2.6. Licensee
An individual or organization holding a license.
2.7. Licensing
The confirmation by the NRC of the experience, education, medical condition, training, and testing pertinent to a specific job assignment.
Document: Administrative Rule 2.1
Title:
NBSR Requalification Plan NBSR Guide, Plan, Policy, Program Information Use Revision:
1 Page 4 of 20 The authorized version of this document is in the online Procedure Library 2.8.
Nuclear experience: Experience acquired in reactor facility start-up activities or operation. Experience in design, construction, maintenance, or related technical services that are job related may also be considered. On-the-job training at the NBSR may qualify as equivalent experience on a one-for-one time basis.
Appropriate research or teaching or both may be includable as nuclear experience.
2.9.
On-the-job training: A systematic, structured method using a qualified person to provide the required job-related knowledge and skills to a trainee, usually in the actual workplace with proficiency documented.
2.10. Operator (Reactor Operator, RO): Any individual licensed to manipulate a control of a facility.
2.11. Reactor supervisor (Duty Reactor Supervisor, DRS): An individual as described in the Technical Specifications and responsible for an operating crew or shift.
2.12. Research reactor: A device designed to support a self-sustaining neutron chain reaction for research, developmental, educational, training, or experimental purposes, and that may have provisions to produce radioisotopes.
2.13. Research reactor facility: Includes all areas within which the owner or operator directs authorized activities associated with the reactor.
2.14. Senior operator (Senior Reactor Operator, SRO): Any individual licensed to manipulate the controls of a facility and to direct the licensed activities of licensed operators.
2.15. Shall, should, may: Shall denotes a requirement; should denotes a recommendation; and may denotes a permission, neither a requirement nor a recommendation.
Document: Administrative Rule 2.1
Title:
NBSR Requalification Plan NBSR Guide, Plan, Policy, Program Information Use Revision:
1 Page 5 of 20 The authorized version of this document is in the online Procedure Library 2.16. Significant power change: Either a tenfold increase in flux indication above critical, or a change in thermal power of at least 1 MW.
2.17. Simulated: The performance of an action or series of actions in a manner that does not involve actual manipulation of plant controls or equipment. Instead, the operator may be required to: point to the appropriate controls; describe the steps they would take to perform the action; and explain the expected plant response.
Simulated actions are used when actual performance is impractical, unsafe, or could negatively impact reactor operations, and are evaluated based on the candidates demonstrated knowledge and understanding of the task.
2.18. Solo operation: Operation of the controls, including monitoring of instrumentation, during reactor operation with no other person at the facility.
Document: Administrative Rule 2.1
Title:
NBSR Requalification Plan NBSR Guide, Plan, Policy, Program Information Use Revision:
1 Page 6 of 20 The authorized version of this document is in the online Procedure Library
- 3.
REQUALIFICATION PROGRAM 3.1.
General Requirements 3.1.1.
Responsibility for the administration of the Requalification Program resides with the Chief, Reactor Operations, or their designated representative.
3.1.2.
The Requalification Program shall be conducted over a 24-month cycle, followed by successive 24-month cycles.
3.1.3.
Within each 24-month cycle, the following shall be completed:
Refresher Training Written Examination Medical Evaluation 3.1.4.
During each 12-month interval of the 24-month cycle, the licensed operator shall:
Complete an Operating Test Complete a Document Review Perform a minimum of five Reactivity Manipulations Perform refueling operations, in accordance with the requirements of NBSR Administrative Rules 4.x, Refueling Proficiency.
3.1.5.
During each calendar quarter of the requalification period, the licensed individual shall perform the functions of a licensed Operator or Senior Operator for a minimum of 4 hours4.62963e-5 days <br />0.00111 hours <br />6.613757e-6 weeks <br />1.522e-6 months <br />.
Document: Administrative Rule 2.1
Title:
NBSR Requalification Plan NBSR Guide, Plan, Policy, Program Information Use Revision:
1 Page 7 of 20 The authorized version of this document is in the online Procedure Library 3.2.
Refresher Training 3.2.1.
The Requalification Program shall include preplanned instructional sessions conducted on a regular and continuing basis throughout the license period. These sessions shall address subject areas identified through operator and senior operator written examination results and facility operating experience, with increased emphasis in scope or depth as required. Covered topics shall include, but are not limited to:
Theory and principles of reactor operation General and specific plant operating characteristics Plant instrumentation and control systems Reactor Protection and facility safety systems Engineered safety features Normal, abnormal, and emergency operating procedures Radiation protection and safety practices Technical Specifications Applicable portions of 10 CFR 1, Statement of Organization and General Information 3.2.2.
Additional refresher training shall be provided in critical knowledge areas not routinely exercised by licensed operators, including:
Emergency planning, drills, and exercises Changes to facility design and operating procedures
Document: Administrative Rule 2.1
Title:
NBSR Requalification Plan NBSR Guide, Plan, Policy, Program Information Use Revision:
1 Page 8 of 20 The authorized version of this document is in the online Procedure Library Updates to administrative rules and policies Updates to NCNR work practices Principles and expectations associated with NCNR Safety Culture 3.3.
Written Examination Content 3.3.1.
Written examinations shall be operationally focused, practical in nature, and objectively graded.
3.3.2.
The format and number of questions shall be selected to effectively evaluate each examinees knowledge and understanding. However, the total number of questions answered correctly shall meet or exceed the minimum passing score specified in 3.4.1.
3.3.3.
Examinations should be structured as multiple-choice assessments and organized into distinct categories. Each category shall contain 20 questions, with 4 answer choices per question. The examination shall include the following sections:
Section (a), Theory: Topics include nuclear theory; principles of reactor operation; general and specific facility operating characteristics; and applicable thermodynamic principles.
Section (b), Procedures and radiological controls: Topics include normal, abnormal, and emergency operating procedures; radiation protection principles and practices; applicable administrative rules; and Technical Specifications.
Section (c), Systems: Topics include plant systems, radiation protection systems; instrumentation and control systems; and engineered safety features.
Document: Administrative Rule 2.1
Title:
NBSR Requalification Plan NBSR Guide, Plan, Policy, Program Information Use Revision:
1 Page 9 of 20 The authorized version of this document is in the online Procedure Library 3.4.
Written Exam Administration and Evaluation 3.4.1.
A minimum passing score of 70% shall be required in each category of the written examination.
3.4.2.
A score on the written examination equal to or greater than the acceptance criterion may require no additional training.
3.4.3.
A score below the minimum acceptance criteria specified in 3.4.1 shall require targeted retraining in the identified areas of weakness.
Retraining and subsequent re-examination shall be completed prior to the individual being considered for license renewal.
3.4.4.
Individuals who fail to achieve a passing score in one or more categories shall be reexamined following documented retraining in the deficient areas.
3.4.4.1.
The Chief, Reactor Operations may waive reexamination in categories where a passing score was achieved, provided the candidate has demonstrated acceptable proficiency in those areas.
3.4.5.
An overall score below 60% on the written examination shall trigger a formal evaluation by the Chief, Reactor Operations or their designated representative.
3.4.5.1.
The evaluation shall determine whether the deficiencies warrant temporary suspension of licensed duties pending completion of an accelerated retraining program.
3.4.5.2.
The evaluation shall consider the individuals prior performance; supervisor evaluations; historical exam scores; and the nature of current deficiencies.
Document: Administrative Rule 2.1
Title:
NBSR Requalification Plan NBSR Guide, Plan, Policy, Program Information Use Revision:
1 Page 10 of 20 The authorized version of this document is in the online Procedure Library 3.4.5.3.
Additional oral or operational examinations may be administered to support the evaluation process.
3.4.5.4.
In all cases, if the individual is unable to achieve a passing score upon reexamination, then they shall be removed from licensed duties within 4 months of the original exam date.
3.5.
Medical Examination 3.5.1.
Each licensed individual shall undergo a medical examination and evaluation as part of the Requalification Program. The examination shall meet the requirements of ANSI/ANS-15.4-2016, Section 7 (excluding 7.2.3[5]), Mental Condition.
3.5.2.
The mental health portion of the medical certification shall conform to the requirements of ANSI/ANS-3.4-2013, Section 5.7, Mental Health.
3.5.3.
Medical examinations shall be conducted at a minimum frequency of once every 2 years.
3.5.3.1.
More frequent examinations may be required based on operational concerns; medical status; the discretion of the Chief, Reactor Operations; or the recommendation of the designated medical examiner.
3.5.4.
The Chief, Reactor Operations holds primary responsibility for ensuring that only medically qualified personnel are assigned to licensed duties.
3.5.5.
Each individuals NRC Form 396, Certification of Medical Examination by Facility Licensee, shall indicate Other under the Guidance Used section and include a statement referencing the use of both ANSI/ANS-3.4-2013 and ANSI/ANS-15.4-2016 standards.
Document: Administrative Rule 2.1
Title:
NBSR Requalification Plan NBSR Guide, Plan, Policy, Program Information Use Revision:
1 Page 11 of 20 The authorized version of this document is in the online Procedure Library 3.6.
Operating Test Content 3.6.1.
For the first and second 12-month intervals of the requalification period, the licensed individual shall complete an operating test.
3.6.2.
At a minimum, each operating test shall include a reactor startup and shutdown.
3.6.3.
At a minimum, each operating test shall include other reactivity tasks:
including fuel movements, insertion and removal of experiments, and rod exchange or movements without power change as one of the tasks selected from 3.6.4.
3.6.4.
Each operating test shall include a sampling of five tasks to be evaluated from the below list as appropriate to the facility and individual license level:
Perform pre-startup procedures for the facility, including operating of those controls associated with plant equipment that could affect reactivity.
Manipulate the console controls as required to operate the facility between shutdown and designated power levels.
Identify annunciators and condition-indicating signals and perform appropriate remedial actions where appropriate.
Identify the instrumentation systems and the significance of facility instrument readings.
Observe and safely control the operating behavior characteristics of the facility.
Document: Administrative Rule 2.1
Title:
NBSR Requalification Plan NBSR Guide, Plan, Policy, Program Information Use Revision:
1 Page 12 of 20 The authorized version of this document is in the online Procedure Library Perform control manipulations required to obtain desired operating results during normal, abnormal, and emergency situations.
Safely operate the facilitys heat removal systems, including primary coolant, emergency coolant, and decay heat removal systems, and identify the relations of the proper operation of these systems to the operation of the facility.
Safely operate the facility's auxiliary and emergency systems, including operation of those controls associated with plant equipment that could affect reactivity or the release of radioactive materials to the environment.
Demonstrate or describe the use and function of the facility's radiation monitoring systems, including fixed radiation monitors and alarms, portable survey instruments, and personnel monitoring equipment.
Demonstrate knowledge of significant radiation hazards, including permissible levels in excess of those authorized. and ability to perform other procedures to reduce excessive levels of radiation and to guard against personnel exposure.
Demonstrate knowledge of the emergency plan for the facility, including, as appropriate, the operator's or senior operator's responsibility to decide whether the plan should be executed and the duties under the plan assigned.
Demonstrate the knowledge and ability as appropriate to the assigned position to assume the responsibilities associated with the safe operation of the refueling system.
Document: Administrative Rule 2.1
Title:
NBSR Requalification Plan NBSR Guide, Plan, Policy, Program Information Use Revision:
1 Page 13 of 20 The authorized version of this document is in the online Procedure Library Demonstrate the knowledge and ability as appropriate to the assigned position to assume the responsibilities associated with the safe operation of the facility.
3.7.
Operating Test Administration and Evaluation 3.7.1.
The operating performance of each licensed individual shall be evaluated and the results documented.
3.7.2.
The operating test serves as a measure of the individuals knowledge, competence, and ability to perform licensed duties, including the capacity to respond appropriately to normal, abnormal, and emergency conditions.
3.7.3.
Operating tests should, whenever possible, involve actual performance of the selected tasks under controlled conditions.
3.7.3.1.
Simulated performance may be used when actual manipulation is impractical or inappropriate; however, no individual shall complete two consecutive operating tests by simulation alone.
3.7.3.2.
When a task is performed using simulation in place of actual control manipulation, the test documentation shall clearly indicate whether each task was "performed" or "simulated.
3.7.4.
Additional operational training shall be provided to address any identified performance weaknesses. This training shall be completed prior to the individual's successful completion of the Requalification Program.
Document: Administrative Rule 2.1
Title:
NBSR Requalification Plan NBSR Guide, Plan, Policy, Program Information Use Revision:
1 Page 14 of 20 The authorized version of this document is in the online Procedure Library 3.7.5.
An overall score below 70% on the operating examination is considered unsatisfactory and shall prompt an evaluation by the Chief, Reactor Operations or their designated representative.
3.7.5.1.
The evaluation shall determine whether the identified deficiencies require temporary suspension of licensed duties pending completion of an accelerated retraining program.
3.7.5.2.
The evaluation shall consider the individuals historical performance, supervisor evaluations, previous examination results, and current areas of deficiency.
3.7.5.3.
Additional oral or practical (operational) examinations may be administered to support the evaluation process.
3.7.5.4.
If the individual does not achieve a passing score following reexamination, then they shall be removed from licensed duties no later than 4 months from the original test date.
3.8.
Document Review 3.8.1.
During both the first and second 12-month intervals of the requalification cycle, each licensed individual shall review the contents of the following key documents:
Annunciator Procedures Emergency Instructions Technical Specifications
Document: Administrative Rule 2.1
Title:
NBSR Requalification Plan NBSR Guide, Plan, Policy, Program Information Use Revision:
1 Page 15 of 20 The authorized version of this document is in the online Procedure Library 3.8.2.
During both the first and second 12-month intervals, each licensed individual shall remain informed of updates and changes to the following documents and procedures:
All document types listed in 3.8.1 Operating Procedures and Instructions Relevant maintenance procedures Engineering Change Notices (ECNs) 3.8.3.
Document and change reviews shall be assigned to licensed individuals through the facility's document control system to ensure accountability and tracking.
3.9.
On-The-Job Training and Proficiencies 3.9.1.
During the first and second 12-month intervals of the requalification period, each licensed individual shall perform reactivity manipulations, which may include a combination of reactor startups, shutdowns, and significant power changes.
3.9.1.1.
The minimum number of reactivity manipulations is five.
The individual must assume primary responsibility for each of these manipulations. For Senior Reactor Operators (SROs), direct supervision of these operations may be considered equivalent to primary responsibility.
Document: Administrative Rule 2.1
Title:
NBSR Requalification Plan NBSR Guide, Plan, Policy, Program Information Use Revision:
1 Page 16 of 20 The authorized version of this document is in the online Procedure Library 3.9.2.
At a minimum, during each evaluation period, licensed individuals shall perform tasks related to refueling, including fuel movements, the insertion and removal of experiments, and shim blade replacements.
3.9.2.1.
Successful completion of the proficiency requirements outlined in NBSR Administrative Rules 4.x shall satisfy this task requirement.
3.9.3.
Licensed individuals are required to provide oversight and instruction of non-licensed operators on shift to ensure effective training and proficiency.
3.10. License Function Requirement 3.10.1.
During each 3-month calendar quarter of the requalification period, the licensed individual shall actively perform the duties of an Operator or Senior Operator for a minimum of 4 hours4.62963e-5 days <br />0.00111 hours <br />6.613757e-6 weeks <br />1.522e-6 months <br />. The following functions qualify for credit towards the quarterly hour requirement:
Actions or manipulations which require a license per Technical Specifications Performance or oversight of procedures that require the individual to be licensed 3.10.2.
Licensed individuals who do not actively perform the functions of an Operator or Senior Operator for a minimum of 4 hours4.62963e-5 days <br />0.00111 hours <br />6.613757e-6 weeks <br />1.522e-6 months <br /> during a calendar quarter shall complete at least 6 hours6.944444e-5 days <br />0.00167 hours <br />9.920635e-6 weeks <br />2.283e-6 months <br /> of licensed functions under the direct supervision of a qualified individual holding the same or a higher-level license before being reinstated to full licensed duties.
Document: Administrative Rule 2.1
Title:
NBSR Requalification Plan NBSR Guide, Plan, Policy, Program Information Use Revision:
1 Page 17 of 20 The authorized version of this document is in the online Procedure Library 3.11. Exemptions 3.11.1.
The Chief, Reactor Operations has the discretion to waive any portion of the Requalification Program on a case-by-case basis.
3.11.1.1.
All waivers shall be supported by written justification and documented in the individuals training record.
3.11.2.
During extended reactor shutdowns, requalification requirements may be temporarily waived.
3.11.2.1.
Any waived requirements shall be successfully completed (requalified) before the individual resumes routine licensed duties or returns to active reactor operations.
3.12. License Renewals 3.12.1.
An individuals reactor operator license shall expire 6 years from the date of issuance.
3.12.2.
Licenses may be renewed prior to expiration, contingent upon submission of the required application forms and successful completion of the Requalification Program and medical certification.
3.12.3.
Licensed individuals shall prepare and submit the following documents to the NRC no later than 30 days before the license expiration date:
NRC Form 396, Certification of Medical Examination by Facility Licensee NRC Form 398, Personal Qualification Statement - Licensee
Document: Administrative Rule 2.1
Title:
NBSR Requalification Plan NBSR Guide, Plan, Policy, Program Information Use Revision:
1 Page 18 of 20 The authorized version of this document is in the online Procedure Library 3.12.4.
Licenses for which renewal applications are submitted at least 30 days prior to the expiration date shall remain active until the NRC renders a final decision on the application.
3.12.5.
Renewal applications submitted fewer than 30 days before the license expiration date shall not extend the license validity. If the license expires before NRC disposition, the individual shall be removed from licensed duties until a new license is issued.
- 4.
CONDITIONAL LICENSES AND RESTRICTIONS 4.1.
Medical Restrictions 4.1.1.
If a conditional license is requested based on medical evidence, the supporting medical documentation shall be submitted to the NRC using NRC Form 396. The NRC will determine whether a conditional license is appropriate in accordance with 10 CFR 55.53.
4.1.2.
Any updates or changes to an individuals medical condition that affect the terms of a conditional license shall require submission of an updated NRC Form 396 to the NRC.
- 5.
DOCUMENTATION AND RECORDS 5.1.
Documentation 5.1.1.
The qualifications and ongoing training status of licensed individuals shall be appropriately documented. Documentation should include, but is not limited to, the following:
Results of Medical examinations
Document: Administrative Rule 2.1
Title:
NBSR Requalification Plan NBSR Guide, Plan, Policy, Program Information Use Revision:
1 Page 19 of 20 The authorized version of this document is in the online Procedure Library A copy of the current operator license, including any associated conditions or restrictions Written examinations result Operating tests results Attendance records for continuous and remedial training Records of any corrective training or evaluations Documentation of reactivity manipulations performed Documentation of refueling operations performed Time on shift performing licensed operator or senior operator functions Official memoranda or approved exemptions from requalification requirements Records of conditional license upgrades Copies of NRC license applications and any submitted waiver requests 5.2.
Records 5.2.1.
Records listed in Subsection 5.1 shall be retained for the duration of the individuals current, active license.
Document: Administrative Rule 2.1
Title:
NBSR Requalification Plan NBSR Guide, Plan, Policy, Program Information Use Revision:
1 Page 20 of 20 The authorized version of this document is in the online Procedure Library
- 6.
REFERENCES 6.1.
10 CFR 1, Statement of Organization and General Information, December 2025 6.2.
10 CFR 55, Operators Licenses, December 2025 6.3.
ANSI/ANS-3.4-2013, Medical Certification and Monitoring of Personnel Requiring Operator Licenses for Nuclear Power Plants, April 2013 6.4.
ANSI/ANS-15.4-2016, Selection and Training of Personnel for Research Reactors, April 2016 6.5.
NBSR Administrative Rules 4.x, Refueling Proficiency 6.6.
NRC Form 396, Certification of Medical Examination by Facility Licensee 6.7.
NRC Form 398, Personal Qualification Statement - Licensee 6.8.
NRC License No. TR-5, Appendix A, Technical Specifications for the NIST Test Reactor (NBSR), July 2022