DOE-HDBK-1122-99 Technician Training, Fundamental Academic Training Instructor's Guide Phase I; Radiological Control Technician Training
Functional areas: Radiological Control, Technician Training
This Handbook describes an implementation process for core training as recommended in DOE Guide G441.1-1, Management and Administration of Radiation Protection Programs and as outlined in DOE’s Radiological Control Standard (RCS). The Handbook is meant to assist those individuals within the Department of Energy, Managing and Operating contractors, and Managing and Integrating contractors identified as having responsibility for implementing core training recommended by the RCS. While this Handbook addresses the training requirements of 10 CFR 835.103 for Radiological Control Technicians, it must be supplemented with facility specific information to achieve full compliance.
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Section 1
TS
METRIC
DOE-HDBK-1122-99
July 1999
DOE HANDBOOK
RADIOLOGICAL CONTROL
TECHNICIAN TRAINING
U.S. Department of Energy AREA TRNG
Washington, D.C. 20585
DISTRIBUTION STATEMENT A. Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.
This document has been reproduced from the best available copy.
Available to DOE and DOE contractors from ES&H Technical Information
Services, U.S. Department of Energy, (800) 473-4375, fax: (301) 903-9823.
Available to the public from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Technology
Administration, National Technical Information Service, Springfield, VA 22161;
(703) 605-6000.
DOE-HDBK-1122-99
iii
Foreword
This Handbook describes an implementation process for core training as recommended in DOE
Guide G441.1-1, Management and Administration of Radiation Protection Programs and as
outlined in DOE’s Radiological Control Standard (RCS). The Handbook is meant to assist those
individuals within the Department of Energy, Managing and Operating contractors, and
Managing and Integrating contractors identified as having responsibility for implementing core
training recommended by the RCS. While this Handbook addresses the training requirements of
10 CFR 835.103 for Radiological Control Technicians, it must be supplemented with facility-
specific information to achieve full compliance.
This Handbook contains recommended training materials consistent with other DOE core
radiological training materials. The training material consists of the following documents:
Program Management Guide - This document contains detailed information on how to use
the Handbook material.
Qualification Standard
Fundamental Academic Lesson Plans
Fundamental Academic Study Guides
Site Academic Lesson Plans
Site Academic Study Guides
Site Practical Training Manual
Oral Examination Board Manual
Facility Practical Training Attachment
This Handbook was produced in WordPerfect 8.0 and has been formatted for printing on an HP
4M (or higher) LaserJet printer. Copies of this Handbook may be obtained from either the DOE
Radiation Safety Training Home Page Internet site (http://tis.eh.doe.gov/wpphm/rst/rst.htm) or
the DOE Technical Standards Program Internet site (http://tis.eh.doe.gov/techstds/). Documents
downloaded from the DOE Radiation Safety Training Home Page Internet site may be
manipulated using the software noted above.
DOE-HDBK-1122-99
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DOE-HDBK-1122-99
Part 1 of 9
Radiological Control Technician Training
Program Management Guide
Coordinated and Conducted
for
Office of Environment, Safety & Health
U.S. Department of Energy
DOE-HDBK-1122-99
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DOE-HDBK-1122-99
iii
Course Developers
William Egbert Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory
Dave Lent Coleman Research
Michael McNaughton Los Alamos National Laboratory
Bobby Oliver Lockheed Martin Energy Systems
Richard Cooke Argonne National Laboratory
Brian Thomson Sandia National Laboratory
Michael McGough Westinghouse Savannah River Company
Brian Killand Fluor Daniel Hanford Corporation
Course Reviewers
Technical Standards Managers U.S. Department of Energy
Peter O’Connell U.S. Department of Energy
William D. Ulicny ATL International, Inc.
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Table of Contents
Page
Section 2
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Purpose and Scope of Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Compliance with 10 CFR 835 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Purpose of RCT Core Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Organizational Relationships and Reporting Structure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Training and Qualification Program Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Overview of RCT Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Description of Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Initial Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Additional Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Continuing Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Requalification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Instructor Training and Qualifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
RCT First-level Supervisors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Site Training Program Development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Job Evaluations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Site Academics Objectives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Practical Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Qualification Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Training Aids, Reference Materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Evaluations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Academic Examinations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Final Comprehensive Written Examinations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Challenge Examinations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Practical Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Oral Examination Boards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Disqualification Procedures and Policies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Section 3
Administration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Training and Qualification Records . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Training Program Development/Change Requests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
RCT Training Program Evaluation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Training for Subcontracted RCTs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
References . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Attachment A - Evaluating the Effectiveness of Radiological Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-1
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DOE-HDBK-1122-99
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Introduction
Purpose and Scope of Guide This guide defines and describes the DOE Radiological Control
Technician (RCT) Core Training & Qualification Program, material
development requirements, standards and policies, and
administration. The guide applies to RCT Training & Qualification
Programs at all DOE sites.
Compliance with 10 CFR 835 The DOE core training materials for RCT Training reflect the
requirements identified in 10 CFR 835, recommendations identified
in DOE Guide G441.1-1, Management and Administration of
Radiation Protection Programs, and in DOE’s Radiological Control
Standard (RCS). When implemented in its entirety and
supplemented as noted with appropriate facility-specific
information, this handbook will generally meet the requirements of
10 CFR 835.103 as they pertain to RCT training. However, it is
incumbent on management of each facility to review the content of
this course to ensure that the training content is sufficient to ensure
the RCT can fulfill his or her responsibilities for developing and
implementing radiation protection measures.
The core training described in this guide does not eliminate or
reduce the need for additional site-specific training identified in the
program and/or through a job evaluation. Site-specific learning
objectives are flagged by a "�" in the left margin of the lesson plan.
Sites should develop and implement the materials for flagged
objectives as they apply to their sites. Each site is responsible for
developing site- specific training as identified through a site-specific
job evaluation.
Purpose of RCT Core
Training
The purpose of this program is to provide guidance concerning
DOE’s expectations for proficiency of RCTs across the DOE
complex consistent with the requirements of 10 CFR 835 and the
guidance in the RCS.
Organizational Relationships
and Reporting Structure
DOE/EH is responsible for approving and maintaining the core
course training materials associated with the RCT training program.
The establishment of a comprehensive and effective site RCT
Training & Qualification program is the responsibility of line
management and their subordinates. The training function can be
performed by a separate training organization but the responsibility
for quality and effectiveness rests with the line management.
Training and Qualification Program Description Next
DOE-HDBK-1122-99
2
Training and Qualification Program Description
Section 4
Overview of RCT Program Final approval of RCT qualification should be the responsibility of
the Radiological Control Manager. RCT qualification should be
granted only after assuring that all the requirements of training,
examinations and work performance have been satisfied. By RCT
qualification, Radiological Control management assures that the
individual is capable of performing aspects of the tasks for which
qualification was given.
The initial qualification process should require:
� successful completion of academic lesson examinations
� successful completion of required job performance measures
� successful completion of final comprehensive written
examination
� successful completion of an oral examination
� final approval by Radiological Control Manager
� compliance with experience requirements as identified in DOE
Order 5480.20A
The biennial requalification process should require:
� participation in continuing training
� successful completion of a final comprehensive written
examination
� successful completion of selected practical training
� successful completion of an oral examination
Description of Program The training program is based on RCS recommendations, industry
guidelines, and the Guide to Good Practices in Radiation Protection
Training. Entry-level prerequisites should be established by each
site to ensure that RCTs meet standards for physical condition and
education. At a minimum, these standards should include:
� high school education or equivalency
� fundamentals of mathematics, physics, chemistry, and science
� systems and fundamentals of process, operations, and
maintenance
� reading and comprehension level sufficient to follow
procedures, write permits, prepare survey maps, write reports,
and prepare shipping and transfer permits
� ability to work in the support role including communicating
verbal instructions to others
Continued Next Page
Training and Qualification Program Description (continued)
DOE-HDBK-1122-99
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Description of Program
(continued)
• physical requirements to handle personal protective equipment,
other equipment, and assist others in work location
commensurate with assignment
Initial Training The initial training program ensures that trainees are trained to meet
performance requirements using a systematic approach to training.
The initial training program contains four segments: Phase I, Phase
II, Phase III, and Phase IV. Classroom instruction times may vary
based on technician entry level qualifications and are not mandated.
Phase I - Academic Training:
Phase I is divided into two sections: Fundamental Academics and
Site Academics. The lessons in these sections may be taught in any
order provided that prerequisite lessons are completed first.
Typically, the academic phase is approximately 240 hours in length.
a. The Fundamental Academics section includes the following 13
lessons:
1.01 Basic Mathematics and Algebra
1.02 Unit Analysis and Conversion
1.03 Physical Sciences
1.04 Nuclear Physics
1.05 Sources of Radiation
1.06 Radioactivity and Radioactive Decay
1.07 Interaction of Radiation with Matter
1.08 Biological Effects of Radiation
1.09 Radiological Protection Standards
1.10 ALARA
1.11 External Exposure Control
1.12 Internal Exposure Control
1.13 Radiation Detector Theory
These 13 lessons contain generic fundamental theory and do not
contain any site-specific information. They represent the
minimal standard information recommended to be taught to an
RCT. These lessons should be taught by all DOE sites.
Section 5
b. The Site Academics section contains the following 19 lessons:
2.01 Radiological Documentation
2.02 Communication Systems
2.03 Counting Errors and Statistics
Continued Next Page
Training and Qualification Program Description (continued)
DOE-HDBK-1122-99
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Initial Training (continued) 2.04 Dosimetry
2.05 Contamination Control
2.06 Airborne Sampling Program/Methods
2.07 Respiratory Protection
2.08 Radioactive Source Control
2.09 Environmental Monitoring
2.10 Access Control and Work Area Setup
2.11 Radiological Work Coverage
2.12 Shipment and Receipt of Radioactive Material
2.13 Radiological Incidents and Emergencies
2.14 Personnel Decontamination
2.15 Radiological Considerations for First Aid
2.16 Radiation Survey Instrumentation
2.17 Contamination Monitoring Instrumentation
2.18 Air Sampling Equipment
2.19 Counting Room Equipment
These lessons include objectives covering general information
relative to the topic and common to all DOE sites, and
objectives where the information may vary with the site
(identified by "�").
Each DOE site should determine appropriate site academic
lessons and objectives based on job responsibilities and
requirements as identified through a site-specific job evaluation.
Facilities that have not conducted a job evaluation should teach
all Phase I lessons and objectives.
c. The standardized academics training is designed to be delivered
in a classroom setting. Examples of alternate delivery methods
are:
� Self-study of Phase I academic materials in support of
comprehensive challenge exams for personnel who
exceed entry-level pre-requisites
� Self-study for initial and continuing training
� Computer-based training
In all cases, regardless of the setting or delivery methods,
examination requirements should be consistent with those
specified in Chapter 6 of the RCS.
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Training and Qualification Program Description (continued)
DOE-HDBK-1122-99
5
Initial Training (continued) Phase II - Practical Training:
Phase I academic objectives provide the bases for skills and tasks to
be performed in Phase II. Practical training utilizes a mixture of
classroom and hands-on training. RCTs are taught to apply
academic knowledge to the site-specific tasks.
a. The practical phase consists of two parts: training and
evaluation. Further guidance on the development and conduct of
practical training and evaluation is given in the "Practical
Training Guide" section of this training program.
b. Tasks should be demonstrated to the trainee with emphasis on
the critical elements of the task. Explanations should be given
to the importance of the tasks and the adverse effects if not
performed properly. Training of tasks may occur at any time or
any order provided the prerequisite learning objectives
(academics) of the task have been taught and the proficiency of
those objectives documented. All training should be conducted
without placing either personnel or facilities at unnecessary risk.
RCTs who are not qualified should be under the direct
supervision of a qualified RCT. Direct supervision requires a
qualified RCT to accompany the trainee and be capable of
intervening, if necessary.
c. Trainees who have demonstrated the ability to perform a task
should be evaluated using the Job Performance Measures
(JPMs). The JPMs identify the knowledge and skills needed to
accomplish the task. The trainees should be evaluated on a
satisfactory/unsatisfactory basis for each task. Once a trainee
demonstrates task qualification, and has obtained the appropriate
signatures, he/she may perform that task without direct
supervision.
Section 6
Phase III - Oral Examination Boards:
a. Oral examination boards should be used to validate the training
of candidates for RCT positions. The board should assess the
individual's response to normal and emergency situations.
Questioning should not be of the type that could be covered in a
written examination.
b. The Radiological Control Manager should designate the board
members and appoint a chairperson. The board should be
comprised of at least three persons to include a Radiological
Control Supervisor, Radiological Control staff, and line
Continued Next Page
Training and Qualification Program Description (continued)
DOE-HDBK-1122-99
6
Initial Training (continued) management operations department supervisors and staff
personnel, as applicable.
c. Further guidance on the development and conduct of oral
examinations is given in the "Oral Examination Boards" section
of this training program.
Phase IV - Facility Practical Training:
a. At DOE sites with more than one facility and where RCT tasks
at each facility may differ, site and facility tasks should be
separated. The tasks that are common to all the facilities on the
site should be included in Phase II training with the core tasks.
Tasks unique to a facility should be added to the training
program qualification standard as an attachment, as Phase IV
training.
b. Not all DOE sites will include Phase IV training in their
programs. Phase IV training allows each site to qualify
technicians to a select facility. The transfer of technicians
between facilities requires that facility tasks be taught and RCT
core qualification is current.
c. Further guidance on the development and conduct of facility
practical training is given in the "Facility Practical Training
Guide" section of this training program.
Additional Training Personnel entering the initial RCT training program should receive
Radiological Worker II training if they are required to perform
unescorted duties as a Radiological Worker or enter radiological
areas prior to receiving the core academic instruction.
Qualified RCTs satisfy the requirements of Radiological Worker
(RW) training. Since RCTs perform radiological workers’ tasks
(don/doff PCs, self-survey, comply with RWPs, etc.), radiological
worker practical skills should be taught. Each site has the option of
including RW training in their RCT program or to have RCTs go
through the practical factors portion of RW training. The advantage
of going through the RW practical factors is the resulting
consistency of the program, where RCTs become refreshed on RW
practices being taught and are thus less likely to direct different
practices in the field.
Continued Next Page
Training and Qualification Program Description (continued)
DOE-HDBK-1122-99
7
Additional Training
(continued)
RCTs may require additional training to enhance their overall
performance and skills. These courses may include specialized
training in CPR, first aid, hazardous material training, as well as
human resources training in communication skills and assertiveness.
Each contractor site should determine these requirements and ensure
that they are met as applicable to RCTs at that site.
Continuing Training Continuing training programs should be designed and implemented
to maintain and enhance the proficiency of RCTs. This training
provides the RCTs with review of required knowledge/skills,
introductions to new knowledge/skills, lessons learned from others,
and verifies by examination minimum levels of proficiency. Topics
addressed in continuing training should include:
Section 7
� selected topics from Phase I and Phase II training
� new procedures and changes to existing procedures that have an
impact on radiological controls
� new equipment and changes or modifications to existing
equipment or facilities
� lessons learned from site operating experiences
� lessons learned from industry operating experiences
� identified deficiencies or poor task performance
� items identified as requiring repetitive training because of high
degree of difficulty and/or criticality or infrequent performance
� annual retraining on emergency preparedness, including drills
Experience has shown that effective continuing training programs
incorporate the following features of technical training:
� Lessons learned training that is embedded in lesson plans and
emphasizes important points.
� Exercises that utilize procedures in training materials, such as
procedure use exercises that are interesting and hold the RCTs
attention.
� Concept application techniques that link theoretical concepts to
practical applications.
Continuing training should include written examinations as
applicable, demonstrations of proficiency controlled by qualification
standards and written and oral examinations to prepare for the
comprehensive biennial requalification.
Continued Next Page
Training and Qualification Program Description (continued)
DOE-HDBK-1122-99
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Continuing Training
(continued)
Continuing training courses should be shared among DOE facilities
to reduce redundant development effort and to maintain
standardization. This shall be accomplished through the Training
Oversight Group.
For further guidance on the development of continuing training
programs see DOE-STD-1060-93 "Guide to Good Practices for
Continuing Training."
All RCTs should complete a minimum of 40 hours of continuing
training for each year of the biennial requalification cycle.
Requalification A 2-year cycle of continuing training is recommended for
requalification. Continuing training should serve as the basis for
requalification.
Biennial requalification should encompass a representative cross-
section of Phase I learning objectives, site-specific and department-
wide changes in requirements, lessons learned from operations and
maintenance experience, and selected tasks.
A comprehensive written examination and oral examination board
are recommended within the last six months of the biennial
requalification cycle. Requalification should consist of participation
in continuing training, successful performance of tasks selected for
requalification, successful completion of a comprehensive written
examination and successful completion of an oral examination
board.
Instructor Training and
Qualifications
All classroom instruction should be provided by instructors qualified
in accordance with the site's instructor qualification program.
Training staff (contractor and subcontractor, if used) must possess
both technical knowledge and experience, and the developmental
and instructional skills required to fulfill their assigned duties.
Training staff responsible for program management, supervision,
and development must have and maintain the education, experience,
and technical qualifications required for their jobs.
Instructors should have the technical qualifications, which include
adequate theory, practical knowledge, and experience, for the
subject matter that they are assigned to teach.
Continued Next Page
Training and Qualification Program Description (continued)
Section 8
DOE-HDBK-1122-99
9
Instructor Training and
Qualifications (continued)
Methods should be in place at each site to ensure that individual
instructors meet and maintain position qualification requirements.
Subject-matter experts without instructor qualification may provide
training in their area of expertise. However, these subject-matter
experts should be trained as instructors when this occurs routinely.
RCT First-level Supervisors Direct or first-level supervisors of RCTs should have qualified as
RCTs prior to entering the RCT Supervisor training & qualification
program.
RCT supervisors should have a greater depth of knowledge than that
expected of an RCT. RCT supervisors should have supervisory and
leadership capabilities to direct the work of RCTs; effectively
interact with crafts, line supervisors, professional staff and other
managers; and be able to respond and direct others in emergency and
abnormal situations.
RCT supervisors should participate in either RCT supervisor
continuing training or RCT continuing training.
RCT supervisors should be requalified every 2 years through
comprehensive oral examination boards. Oral examination boards
should focus on the ability to analyze radiological conditions and
unusual situations and supervise subordinates. The Board
constituted to evaluate RCT supervisor qualification should not
include peers or subordinates as voting members.
Site Training Program Development Next
DOE-HDBK-1122-99
10
Site Training Program Development
Job Evaluations The core course training materials provide the minimum basis for
RCT training. However, in order to maintain the performance-based
philosophy, a job evaluation should be performed to assess the needs
of each individual DOE facility.
A job evaluation is a documented review of RCT job scope and
responsibilities. While a complete job/task analysis is desirable, a
job evaluation provides the minimum amount of analysis to
determine the tasks performed by an RCT.
A job evaluation consists of:
� development of a list of tasks performed by RCTs at the site
� evaluation of the task list for training applicability and methods
� comparison of identified tasks and associated topics to the site
academic materials to determine which lessons and objectives
apply
� comparison of site task list to the core task list for applicability
Site Academics Objectives The Site Academics section of Phase I training provides a broad
scope of topics associated with RCT tasks. Inclusion of Phase I site
training materials is dependent on the site-specific RCT duties.
The job evaluation should be used to provide the basis for exclusion
of site-specific learning objectives ("�") from the site program. The
job evaluation should also be used to identify additional RCT tasks
which require training.
Some Site Academics objectives may be satisfied by other training
courses attended by RCTs.
Practical Training Each site should determine tasks for initial practical training of
RCTs at that site. Below is a list of tasks that are performed by
RCTs at most DOE sites. This list should be considered for
inclusion in the site task list. In addition, each site may add other
site-specific tasks as appropriate. The core task list is as follows:
Continued Next Page
Site Training Program Development (continued)
DOE-HDBK-1122-99
11
Practical Training
(continued)
Section 9
• Perform a contamination survey
• Perform a radiation survey
• Obtain air samples
• Perform a leak test on a radioactive source
• Complete a performance test on portable hand held instruments
• Complete a performance test on health physics counting
equipment
• Post a radiological area to reflect associated hazards
• Perform a radioactive material shipment survey
• Respond to a high airborne activity alarm
• Respond to an uncontrolled release of radioactive material
• Respond to a radiation alarm
• Respond to an injured person located in a radiological area
• Direct and monitor personnel decontamination
Job Performance Measures (JPMs) should be used to assess the
trainee's ability to perform identified tasks. Guidance on the
development of JPMs is given in the "Practical Training Guide"
section of this training program.
Qualification Standards A qualification standard states the academic and practical
requirements necessary for the successful completion of the RCT
Program.
Signatures on the standards should document satisfactory
proficiency for the performance requirements. A list of personnel
authorized to sign qualification standards should be maintained at
each site.
Guidance on the development of Qualification Standards is given in
the Technician Qualification Standard section of this training
program.
Training Aids, Reference
Materials
Designated viewgraphs should be used. Site-specific training aids
may be developed.
Reference materials should be cited in each lesson plan.
Evaluations Next
DOE-HDBK-1122-99
12
Evaluations
Academic Examinations Written examinations should be used to demonstrate satisfactory
completion of academic training. Requirements for examinations
include:
� The minimum passing grade for examinations should be 80%.
� Questions should be randomly selected from the supplied
question bank.
� Each RCT should be tested on all learning objectives through a
combination of questions in the topic (Phase I) examinations and
final comprehensive examination (after Phase II) for initial
qualification.
� One exam bank question may cover several learning objectives.
The trainee should acknowledge, by signature, his/her
participation in a post-examination review.
Each site should designate a single point of contact as an
examination bank custodian. DOE will provide a copy of a sample
exam bank to exam bank custodians.
An examination question bank should be maintained by the site
examination bank custodian. Recommendations for exam banks and
examinations include:
� The examination question bank should include at least three (3)
questions per learning objective
� Each question in the exam bank should be numbered in
accordance with the corresponding learning objective.
� The standardized core course examination question bank should
include Phase I academic material except for Site Academics
learning objectives flagged by "�" as site-specific.
� Questions may consist of multiple choice, fill in the blank, short
answer, matching, and essay. In order to minimize test items
requiring rote memorization, short answer and essay questions
are the preferred method of testing. True/false questions should
not be used.
� Short answer and essay questions should have model answers to
reduce the subjectivity in grading.
All site-specific site exam-bank questions should be maintained by
the site and should be developed for the flagged ("�") learning
objectives.
Continued Next Page
Evaluations (continued)
Section 10
DOE-HDBK-1122-99
13
Academic Evaluations
(continued)
Written examinations which cover objectives from one or more
academic lessons should be administered at periodic intervals during
Phase I to assess trainee classroom progress.
Examinations generated by the site for academic lessons should use
questions from the DOE sample exam bank and each site's site-
specific exam bank.
Remedial action for trainees who fail a topic examination should be
the responsibility of each site.
Final Comprehensive Written
Examinations
A final comprehensive written examination should be administered
following the completion of Phase II and within the last six months
of biennial re-qualification. It should cover a representative sample
of the learning objectives from Fundamental Academic and
appropriate Site Academic lesson plans.
Students who fail the final comprehensive written examination
should complete a formal remediation in the areas of weakness. The
remediation requirements should be documented in a formal written
plan and presented to the student. As a minimum, the remediation
should include:
� a review of the weaknesses noted by the final written
examination
� counseling to determine the depth and nature of the weaknesses
and appropriate action based on the counseling
� any retraining or self-study considered necessary to upgrade the
areas of weakness
Students failing three final comprehensive written examinations
should be considered for dis-enrollment from the RCT program.
Challenge Examinations Challenge examinations should be administered after a review of
trainee records. The review should include:
� previous work history
� previous training and education
Challenge examinations should be utilized for individuals with prior
training, NRRPT registration, education, and experience. Study
materials may be provided to individuals prior to examination.
Continued Next Page
Evaluations (continued)
DOE-HDBK-1122-99
14
Challenge Examinations
(continued)
Challenge examinations may be administered for a group of
academic lesson plans or for individual lesson plans.
Challenge examinations should consist of questions from a
representative sample of learning objectives for the lessons being
challenged.
Challenge examinations should be composed of questions from the
academics examination question bank.
Identified weaknesses in performance on challenge examinations
should require formal remedial training and successful re-testing.
Practical Training Qualification for each task should be achieved by actual task
performance. When the actual task cannot be performed but is
simulated, the conditions of the task performance, references, tools,
and equipment should reflect the actual task to the fullest extent
possible.
Trainees are evaluated on a satisfactory/unsatisfactory basis for each
on-the-job-training (OJT) task. Trainees should be given sufficient
time to practice the task before an evaluation is conducted. Any
practical training completed with less than 100% proficiency on
critical steps constitutes a failure. Failure of any task will require
remedial action, which may include a repeat demonstration of the
task by an OJT trainer/evaluator or allowing the trainee to perform
the task with direct supervision.
Candidates failing three evaluations on the same task should be
considered for dis-enrollment from the RCT program.
Further guidance on the conduct of practical training is given in the
"Practical Training Guide" section of this training program.
Section 11
Oral Examination Boards The oral examination board provides an opportunity to identify areas
of weakness related to performance of RCT duties.
Candidates who fail an oral examination should complete a formal
remediation in the areas of weakness. The remediation requirements
should be documented in a formal written plan and presented to the
candidate.
Continued Next Page
Evaluations (continued)
DOE-HDBK-1122-99
15
Oral Examination Boards
(continued)
Candidates failing three final oral examinations should be
considered for dis-enrollment from the RCT program.
Guidance on the conduct of oral examination boards is given in the
"Oral Examination Board Manual" section of this training program.
Disqualification Procedures
and Policies
Any trainee who does not successfully complete a final
comprehensive examination or oral examination board should be
considered for disqualification. Disqualification means that an
individual cannot perform RCT tasks unless accompanied by and
under the direct supervision of a qualified RCT.
Any trainee who does not successfully complete an evaluated on-
the-job task should be disqualified from further performance of that
task. Disqualification means that an individual cannot perform the
specific task(s) unless accompanied by and under the direct
supervision of a qualified RCT.
Disqualified individuals should receive a management review of
individual circumstances to determine appropriate actions.
An RCT who fails to complete continuing training requirements
during the requalification period should be disqualified. Site-
generated exceptions may be made for continuing training based on
long- or short-term medical leaves, use of subcontractors, etc. These
exceptions may be necessary if an RCT is unable to attend
continuing training, and make-up of that cycle is not practical.
Administration Next
DOE-HDBK-1122-99
16
Administration
Training and Qualification
Records
Training records and course documentation shall meet the
requirements of 10 CFR 835 Subpart H and should meet Chapter 7
of the DOE RCS.
Examinations should clearly identify missed questions and scores.
Recommended signatures for RCT qualification are:
a. Completion of Phase I (Academic Training):
1) Instructor signature on qualification standard stating trainee
has met the requirements of the learning objectives through
examination. Following successful completion of
challenge examinations, the trainee should receive credit
for the academic material covered by the challenge
examination.
2) Trainee signature on the examination acknowledging
participation in a post-exam review
b. Completion of Phase II (Practical Training):
1) Trainee signature on the qualification standard verifying
performance of the task
2) OJT trainer/evaluator signature on the qualification
standard verifying satisfactory trainee performance of the
task
c. Completion of final comprehensive written examination:
1) Instructor signature on qualification standard stating trainee
has met the requirements of the learning objectives through
examination.
2) Trainee signature on the examination acknowledging
participation in a post-exam review
d. Completion of Phase III (Oral Examination Board):
1) Signature by the chairperson of the oral examination board
on the qualification standard verifying the trainee's
satisfactory performance, based on the assessment of all
voting members
Continued Next Page
Administration (continued)
DOE-HDBK-1122-99
17
Section 12
Training and Qualification
Records (continued)
2) Trainee signature verifying successful completion of the
oral examination
e. Final Approval:
1) Radiological Control Manager (or designee) signature on
the qualification standard acknowledging final approval of
the standardized technician position qualification.
f. Completion of Phase IV (Facility-specific Practical Training) -
optional:
1) Trainee signature on the qualification standard verifying
performance of the task
2) OJT trainer/evaluator signature on the qualification
standard verifying successful trainee performance of the
task
3) Radiological Control Manager (or designee) signature on
the qualification standard acknowledging approval of
facility qualification
Training Program
Development/Change
Requests
All requests for program changes and revisions should be submitted
through the appropriate DOE technical standards change process.
RCT Training Program
Evaluation
Verification of the effectiveness of Radiological Control training
should be accomplished by surveying a limited subset of former
students in the workplace. This evaluation should include
observation of practical applications and discussion of the course
material, and may include an associated written examination.
DOE/EH has issued guidelines for evaluating the effectiveness of
radiological training through the DOE Operations Offices and DOE
Field Offices. These guidelines are included as an attachment to this
Program Management Guide.
For additional guidance, refer to DOE-STD-1070-94, “Guide for
Evaluation of Nuclear Facility Training Programs.” The guidelines
contained in these documents are relevant for the establishment and
implementation of post-training evaluation and retention testing
programs.
Continued Next Page
Administration (continued)
DOE-HDBK-1122-99
18
RCT Training Program
Evaluation (continued)
In response to the Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board (DNFSB)
Recommendation 91-6, DOE committed to develop an
implementation plan to upgrade radiation protection programs at
DOE defense nuclear facilities. The implementation plan detailed
DOE’s plans to develop and implement radiation protection post-
training evaluation and retention testing programs. Post-training
evaluations will be used to identify opportunities for improving
course materials, upgrading instruction methods and techniques, and
determining the need for additional training. Retention testing will
indicate when individual performance or testing fails to meet
expectations. Corrective actions for deficiencies identified in
retention testing will be incorporated in the individual’s
development plan and the site’s training program on an appropriate
schedule.
In addition, Chapter 6 of the DOE RCS states that sites should
implement a training effectiveness verification program. This
program, which is in addition to performance evaluations routinely
performed by the site’s training department, is to verify the
effectiveness of radiological control training by surveying a limited
subset of former students in the workplace. This recommendation
applies to both DOE defense nuclear facilities and DOE facilities not
classified as defense nuclear facilities.
Per DOE’s commitment to DNFSB, it is expected that all defense
nuclear facilities will implement these or equivalent programs. DOE
facilities not classified as defense nuclear facilities should also strive
to implement such programs. Line management should monitor
progress of program implementation.
Section 13
Training for Subcontracted
RCTs
Subcontracted RCTs should have the same knowledge and
qualifications required of site technicians performing the same
duties. Subcontracted RCTs should meet the requirements as
outlined in Chapter 6 of the DOE RCS.
References Next
DOE-HDBK-1122-99
19
References
REFERENCES
U.S. Department of Energy, DOE-STD-1098-99, “Radiological Control Standard.”
U.S. Department of Energy, “Occupational Radiation Protection,” 10 CFR 835, 1998.
U.S. Department of Energy, “Implementation Guidance for Use with 10 CFR 835, Occupational
Radiation Protection,” 1999.
U.S. Department of Energy, DOE Order 5480.2A, “Personnel Selection, Qualification, and Training for
DOE Nuclear Facilities,” 1994.
DOE-HDBK-1122-99
20
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DOE-HDBK-1122-99
ATTACHMENT
EVALUATING THE EFFECTIVENESS OF
RADIOLOGICAL TRAINING
REV 1, 1998
Guidelines to Establish and Conduct a Post-Training Evaluation
Program and a Retention Testing Program
DOE-HDBK-1122-99
A-ii
TABLE OF CONTENTS
I. INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-1
A. Purpose . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-1
B. Purpose of Post-Training Evaluation and Retention Testing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-2
C. Assumptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-2
D. Guidance From Department of Energy Standards (DOE-STD) 1070-94 . . . . . . . . . . . . A-2
E. DOE Radiological Control Standard (RCS), Article 613.7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-3
F. Elements of Article 613.6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-3
G. Qualifications of Evaluators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-3
H. Correlation Between Evaluation and Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-3
I. Training Requirements Based on Employee Duties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-4
J. Stakeholder Consensus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-4
K. A Checklist for Establishing and Implementing a Post-Training Evaluation Program . A-4
II. PROGRAM ADMINISTRATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-4
A. Schedules For Conducting Post-Training Evaluation and Retention Testing . . . . . . . . . A-4
B. Sample Sizes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-5
C. Interpreting Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-7
III. GUIDELINES FOR COURSE POST-TRAINING EVALUATION AND RETENTION
TESTING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-9
A. General Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-9
B. General Employee Radiological Training (GERT) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-9
C. Radiological Worker I Training (RW I) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-10
D. Radiological Worker II Training (RW II) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-12
E. Radiological Control Technician Training (RCT) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-14
Section 14
IV. REFERENCES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-21
DOE-HDBK-1122-99
A-1
I. INTRODUCTION
This guideline supports implementation of the "U.S. Department of Energy Radiological Control
Standard," article 613.7 (1998).
A. Purpose
The purpose of a training program and its associated evaluation phase is to assure that
workers are qualified to perform their jobs competently and safely. This purpose should be
kept foremost while establishing the procedural controls of the post-training evaluation
process at each site.
The purpose of this document is to aid DOE sites in developing procedures and practices to
conduct post-training evaluation of the following four core radiological control training
courses: GERT, RW I, RW II, and RCT training. Similar procedures and practices should
be applied to post-training evaluation of the supplemental radiological control training
courses as they become available.
Several of the key elements of a post-training evaluation program are also applicable to the
establishment and implementation of a retention testing program. A retention testing
program differs from a post-training evaluation program in that the results of a retention
testing program are used to assist in: (1) identifying when individual performance fails to
meet expectations; (2) identifying adverse trends in radiological performance; and
(3) correcting individual performance deficiencies. The results of a post-training evaluation
program are directed towards improving the training program rather than correcting
individual performance deficiencies.
This document provides guidance on the issues and practices that should be considered in
setting up such programs. It is not intended to prescribe specific practices that must be
followed by all sites.
The diversity of conditions among the various DOE sites will require that the application of
good practices recommended in this guideline may differ from site to site. That diversity
includes the nature of the training organization, the nature of the trainees, the number of
trainees, and the frequency in which the trainees will apply the training.
Conducting evaluations will require training evaluators at each site. In particular, the
consistency in which any set of evaluators will rate the skill and knowledge levels of the
former trainees will need to be emphasized. It is essential that the judgement of skill levels
not vary appreciably from one evaluator to the next. Expertise to conduct such training may
be available at the site or may be acquired from offsite sources. Several written references
are provided.
The results of post-training evaluations may be used to upgrade core course materials as
described in the Program Management Guides.
DOE-HDBK-1122-99
A-2
B. Purpose of Post-Training Evaluation and Retention Testing
Post-training evaluation has four primary purposes:
1. To measure the retention of skills and knowledge provided during training for
extended periods following the training;
2. To measure the degree to which the training is used on the job;
3. To provide feedback to improve the training; and
4. To measure the cost effectiveness of the training.
A primary purpose of retention testing is to incorporate corrective actions into individual
development plans based on deficiencies observed during the retention testing process.
C. Assumptions
Section 15
1. These guidelines will be specific to evaluation of the radiological control training
contained in the core training materials.
2. The applications of these guidelines will be unique for each DOE site.
3. Each DOE site will formalize its Radiological Safety Training Post-Training
Evaluation Program and Retention Testing Program in site procedures.
4. These guidelines summarize the requirements of other documents, which explain more
fully the process of training evaluation.
5. These guidelines are sufficient for knowledgeable individuals to use to create site
controlling procedures.
6. Personnel engaged in post-training evaluation or retention testing will require some
training or previous evaluation experience.
7. Individual sites may choose to include this evaluation program as part of site-wide
evaluation of training.
8. Other radiological control training may be considered for evaluation along with core
training.
9. The phrase "in the workplace" in the RCS cited below is taken figuratively to mean at
the work location. While observation of skills would be preferable while engaged in
real work at the actual workplace, the discussion of content may or may not be best
done at that location. Written testing would be best done in a classroom setting where
quiet and privacy may be maintained.
D. Guidance From DOE-STD-1070-94
DOE-STD-1070-94, "Guidelines For Evaluation of Nuclear Facility Training Programs,"
appendix A, objective 8.0, "Training Program Evaluation," contains seven criteria. Three of
these criteria are applicable to the purpose of these guidelines:
Criteria 8.1: A comprehensive evaluation of individual training programs is
conducted by qualified individuals on a periodic basis to identify
program strengths and weaknesses.
Criteria 8.3: Feedback from trainee performance during training is used to evaluate
and refine the training program. Feedback from former trainees and
their supervisors is used to evaluate and refine the training program.
DOE-HDBK-1122-99
A-3
Criteria 8.5: Improvements and changes to initial and continuing training are
systematically initiated, evaluated, tracked, and incorporated to track
training deficiencies and performance problems.
E. DOE Radiological Control Standard, Article 613.7
Article 613.7 states:
Verification of the effectiveness of radiological control training should be accomplished by
surveying a limited subset of former students in the workplace. This verification is in
addition to performance evaluations routinely performed by training departments. This
evaluation should include observation of practical applications, discussions of the course
material, and may include written examinations. The survey should be performed by
radiological control managers and supervisors, quality assurance personnel, or senior
instructors after the former student has had the opportunity to perform work for several
months. The results should be documented.
F. Elements of Article 613.7
The following elements are stated:
1. The purpose of the evaluation is to verify the effectiveness of radiological control
training.
2. The survey should be made on a subset of students several months after the training.
3. The survey may be conducted by training or nontraining personnel.
4. The survey should be conducted at the workplace.
5. The survey should be conducted in addition to any evaluations made as part of the
training process.
6. The survey should consist of:
Section 16
o Observation of practical applications of the training;
o Discussion of the course material with the trainee; and
o An optional written examination, as appropriate, to measure retention.
7. The results should be documented.
G. Qualifications of Evaluators
Personnel who perform the evaluations should be technical experts on radiological control
practices and should possess, or be trained to develop, interviewing skills and observational
skills.
H. Correlation Between Evaluation and Training
The radiological control core training courses are nationally standardized. Any changes to
the training materials, including the test banks, should be correlated by training oversight
groups. How that correlation will be conducted is described in the program management
guides for the courses.
Site specific radiological control training may be evaluated and revised by that site.
DOE-HDBK-1122-99
A-4
I. Training Requirements Based on Employee Duties
Table 3-1 of the RCS displays the types of workers and the recommended level of
radiological training.
J. Stakeholder Consensus
Effective evaluation of training can only be conducted in a climate of consensus by all
stakeholders. An essential element in the evaluation process is the development of
consensus in advance of the evaluation. This involves agreement on the objectives of the
evaluation, methods of evaluation to be used, and the required level of support that can be
provided. Agreement should also be reached on whether the evaluation process will
undergo the same approval cycle as that of other training materials.
Note that it may not be possible to obtain the same level of consensus in the development of
a retention testing program, as the results of this program are used to provide remedial
training for individuals exhibiting performance deficiencies. The retention testing program
must be conducted in a manner such that there is no question as to the fairness and unbiased
manner in which the program is implemented.
K. A Checklist for Establishing and Implementing a Post-Training Evaluation Program
The following steps are essential in formalizing the post-training evaluation process and
should be considered in developing site procedures:
1. Formalization via procedures of radiological control post-training evaluation;
2. Establishment of evaluation goals, objectives, and schedule, including building
consensus among stakeholders;
3. Qualification of evaluators;
4. Preparation of evaluation materials;
5. Conduct of evaluations;
6. Reporting evaluation results; and
7. Program revision as applicable.
Note that this checklist is also applicable to a retention testing program.
II. PROGRAM ADMINISTRATION
A. Schedules For Conducting Post-Training Evaluation and Retention Testing
It is suggested that based on predicted proficiencies, post-training evaluation should be
scheduled 3 to 6 months following the training. Conducting the evaluation at least 3 months
following the training would provide an opportunity for the trainee to have used the skills
on the job, while not extending the evaluation beyond 6 months to assure that some level of
retention could be expected. Site specific conditions may make it desirable to extend the
period between training and evaluation, but data to support the extension decision should be
collected to assure that the purposes of the evaluation are being met.
Note that this schedule is also applicable to a retention testing program.
Section 17
DOE-HDBK-1122-99
A-5
B. Sample Sizes
The subset of former students to be sampled should be large enough to provide valid and
reliable data for meeting the needs of the training and radiological control organizations.
The number selected to be evaluated depends on the degree of precision and reliability
desired.
Individuals to be evaluated should be selected using random number tables or some other
randomizing technique unless the population size is so small that the randomizing effort
will be of no value.
Table 1 is a matrix that describes a suggested level of sample size that can provide an
appropriate level of comfort and can be used to establish the sample sizes to be used at each
site. The percentages are based on the information provided in Dr. N.M. Dixon's
"Evaluations: A Tool for HRD Quality."
Note that these sample size guidelines also apply to a retention testing program.
DOE-HDBK-1122-99
A-6
TABLE 1
Determining Sample Size for Post-Training Evaluations and Retention Testing
Number of Trainees Per Year Per Course
Percent of
Trainees to
Be
Evaluated
1-40 41-100 101-160 161-250 251-380 381-600 601-900 901-1600 1600-3500
Over
3500
90 - 100% X
80 - 89% X
70 - 79% X
60 - 69% X
50 - 59% X
40 - 49% X
30 - 39 % X
20 - 29% X
10 - 19% X
3 - 9% X
DOE-HDBK-1122-99
A-7
C. Interpreting Results
Interpretation of results should be based on the original purpose(s) for conducting the
evaluation. Interpretations can be centered on questions to be asked of the data. Table 2
shows samples of the type of questions that could be asked for each of the four purposes for
evaluating training.
DOE-HDBK-1122-99
A-8
TABLE 2
Interpreting Evaluation Results
Purpose for Evaluation Questions to Ask of Data
To measure the retention of skills
and knowledge provided during
training for extended periods
following the training.
a. What is the average percentage of retention?
b. What is the range of retention (highest and lowest)?
c. Which objectives (knowledge/skill) were best retained? Which were least
retained?
d. How frequently were the least retained knowledge/skills used on the job?
e. How many trainees fell below minimum passing requirements for the class?
Why?
f. What other variables, such as additional training, might have had an impact on
retention?
To measure the degree to which
training is used on the job.
a. How frequently is the knowledge/skill from training used on the job?
b. Does the way in which a task is taught in training match exactly the way in which
it is performed on the job?
c. How is management/supervision reinforcing the knowledge/skills taught in the
training at the worksite?
To provide feedback to improve the
training.
a. Which knowledge/skill is not being used on the job? Why?
b. If knowledge/skill is not retained, but is essential to job function, how can
training make the learning of that skill more job like?
c. What is the opinion of trainees regarding the benefits of the training after the
extended time period?
d. Were the training materials retained by the trainee after the class, and were they
helpful as references back at the worksite?
e. Have the trainees made any contact with instructors since the class for
assistance? For what purpose? Was the contact helpful?
f. What knowledge/skills need expanded or additional training?
To measure the cost effectiveness of
the training.
a. What is the actual cost of delivering this training?
b. Does the data suggest that trainees were not positively affected by the training?
Section 18
How?
c. Is the knowledge/skill provided by the training directly related to the work the
trainee performs?
d. What percent improvement in job performance resulted from completion of the
training?
To incorporate corrective actions
into individual development plans
based on deficiencies observed
during the retention testing process.
a. What percentage of other individuals performed satisfactory in retention testing?
b. How frequently were the unretained skills used on the job?
c. How much remedial training has the individual already received?
d. What changes have occurred that resulted in the individual completing original
training, but failing retention testing?
e. How critical to the individuals job function were the deficient items identified in
retention training?
f. How likely is enhanced training going to result in improving the individuals
performance to an acceptable level?
DOE-HDBK-1122-99
A-9
III. GUIDELINES FOR COURSE POST-TRAINING EVALUATION AND RETENTION
TESTING
A. General Instructions
It may be beneficial and appropriate at some sites to combine in-field practical exams
with training content discussions. Thus, the observer can pose the identified questions
while observing actual work being performed.
1. In-Field Observation:
Five skill areas could be included in in-field observations: prejob preparations,
knowledge level, radiological practices, emergency response practices, and exit
practices. A checklist could be developed using a weighted point value system and
identifying critical practices. The checklist could be modified to fit individual site
requirements.
2. Discussion Questions:
Discussion with employees should determine whether the knowledge acquired in the
training has been transferred to the job. The intent is not simply to measure retention
of specific facts. The depth of the discussion would be directly correlated to the level
of radiological hazard, which may be encountered on the job.
3. Written Exam:
Written exams for evaluation of training effectiveness are optional, but may be used
to evaluate the effectiveness of the training.
These written exams may test retention of specific content from the courses. It may
be desirable to use written tests that measure the ability to apply the knowledge from
the training. In that instance, questions could be developed to measure student
reaction to case studies. Such case study questions would allow each site to tailor the
testing to its particular facilities, procedures, practices, and conditions.
B. General Employee Radiological Training (GERT)
1. In-Field Observation:
Some sites may desire to survey GERT trainees to determine their knowledge of
hazardous areas to avoid.
2. Discussion Questions:
GERT trained employees access controlled areas. They should be aware of the
hazards they may face in an emergency and how they should respond to those
hazards. The following questions may be part of the discussion:
a. How many millirems of exposure do you normally receive on your job in a year?
b. What is your annual dose limit; administrative dose guideline; when was the last
time it was reported?
DOE-HDBK-1122-99
A-10
c. What types of radiation hazards exist at your facility?
d. How do you practice As Low As Reasonably Achievable (ALARA) in your
work?
e. What is the sound of the emergency alarms for your workplace?
f. How are employees at your work area warned of radiation hazards?
g. What obligations do you have to maintain exposure to radiation ALARA?
h. What is dosimetry and what precautions should be taken when handling
Section 19
dosimeters?
i. What radiological training are you required to take? How does your training
relate to your job?
3. Written Exam:
GERT trained employees are not required to pass a written examination.
C. Radiological Worker I (RW I)
1. In-Field Observation:
Table 3 is a sample chart, which illustrates the in-field activities and weighing system
that could be used to observe RW I trainees. The numbers shown are based on
conditions and priorities at a particular DOE site. Other sites may determine a
different weighing system. Sites could choose to develop scenarios or drills in which
to conduct in-field observations, or simply observe workers in their normal working
environments.
DOE-HDBK-1122-99
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TABLE 3
Sample RW I In-Field Observations Chart
ITEM EVALUATED POINT VALUE SCORE
Stated purpose of entry 2
Stated radiation levels (w/units) 6
Stated special instructions listed on radiological work permit (RWP) 6
Selected dosimetry in accordance with RWP 4
Dosimetry worn in accordance with procedures 4
Recorded appropriate information on the RWP prior to entry 4
Entered only areas designated on the RWP 3
Followed special instructions (i.e., material to be taken into the
radiological areas, etc.)
9
Practiced ALARA (time, distance, shielding) 18
Completed task as per RWP 9
Stated appropriate actions to take when a radiation monitor alarmed 5
Verified survey instrument in operation 5
Surveyed for contamination properly (probe speed/distance, return
probe to position)
12
Resurveyed area when count rate taken 4
Stated proper actions to take if survey instrument should alarm 5
Recorded and totaled exposure on RWP upon exit 4
Unidentified significant mistake: Action involves violating instructions
that lead to spread of contamination outside designated boundaries, or
of unnecessary exposure to worker, jeopardizing personnel safety or
creating a radiological hazard (eat, drink, chew, etc., in RCA).
AUTOMATIC FAILURE: DEDUCT 21 POINTS
COMMENTS: 100
Possible
Score
%
Actual
Score
DOE-HDBK-1122-99
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2. Discussion Questions:
RW I personnel enter radiological buffer areas and radiation areas, but do not engage
in activities requiring protective clothing. The following questions could be part of
the discussion:
a. How many millirems of exposure do you normally receive on your job in a year?
b. What is your annual dose limit; administrative dose guideline; when was the last
time it was reported?
c. What types of radiation hazard exist at your facility?
d. What types of radiation are you exposed to in the course of your work? How do
you protect yourself from these hazards?
e. How do you practice ALARA in your work?
f. What is the sound of continuous air monitor alarms for your workplace?
g. How are employees at your work area warned of radiation hazards?
h. What obligations do you have to maintain exposure to radiation ALARA?
i. What is dosimetry and what precautions should be taken when handling
dosimeters?
j. What radiological training are you required to take? How does your training
relate to your job?
3. Written Exam:
RW I training has recommended objectives in for the core course plus any site
specific objectives added for the site. The following approaches to retesting are being
successfully applied throughout the DOE complex:
a. Conducting written retests twice each year on a sample of the trainees taught
during the previous 6 months.
Section 20
b. Retesting a sample of trainees 4 to 6 months following their training.
c. Retesting all objectives for a sample of trainees.
d. Retesting only those objectives that were found to be difficult for trainees to
learn, remember, or apply in the previous 6 months.
Whichever pattern a site selects, the results should provide the data needed to meet
the determined purposes of the evaluations.
D. Radiological Worker II (RWII)
1. In-Field Observation:
Table 4 shows a sample chart that illustrates the in-field activities and weighing
system that could be used to observe RW II trainees. The numbers shown are based
on conditions and priorities at a DOE site. Other sites may determine a different
weighing system. Sites could choose to develop scenarios or drills in which to
conduct in-field observations, or simply observe workers in their normal working
environments.
DOE-HDBK-1122-99
A-13
TABLE 4
Sample RW II In-Field Observations Chart
ITEM EVALUATED POINT
VALUE
SCORE
Stated purpose of entry 3
Stated radiation levels and contamination levels (with units) 5
Selected protective clothing (PC's) and dosimetry in accordance with
RWP
5
Donned PCs properly 5
Dosimetry worn in accordance with procedures 3
Recorded appropriate information on the RWP prior to entry 5
Entered only areas designated on the RWP 6
Followed special instructions listed on the RWP 8
Practiced ALARA (time, distance, shielding) 10
Completed tasks as per RWP 6
Removed PC's to minimize spread of contamination 10
Placed items in proper receptacles upon doffing 5
Verified survey instrument in operation 6
Surveyed for contamination properly 10
Stated appropriate actions for response to continuous air monitor alarm 8
Recorded exposure on RWP upon exit 5
Unidentified significant mistake: Action involving violating instructions
that lead to spread of contamination outside designated boundaries, or of
unnecessary exposure to worker, jeopardizing personnel safety or
creating a radiological hazard (eat, drink, chew, etc., in RCA).
AUTOMATIC FAILURE: DEDUCT 21 POINTS
COMMENTS: 100
Possible Score
%
Actual
Score
DOE-HDBK-1122-99
A-14
2. Discussion Questions:
RW II personnel enter all radiological areas and engage in activities requiring
protective clothing. The following questions could be part of the discussion:
a. How many millirems of exposure do you normally receive on your job in a year?
b. What is your annual dose limit; administrative dose guideline; when was the last
time it was reported?
c. What types of radiation hazard exist at your facility?
d. What types of radiation are you exposed to in the course of your work? How do
you protect yourself from these hazards?
e. How do you practice ALARA in your work?
f. What is the sound of continuous air monitor alarms for your workplace?
g. How are employees at your work area warned of radiation hazards?
h. What obligations do you have to maintain exposure to radiation ALARA?
i. What is dosimetry? What precautions should be taken when handling
dosimeters?
j. What practices do you take to assure you do not spread contamination while
donning or doffing PC's?
k. What radiological training are you required to take? How does your training
relate to your job?
3. Written Exam:
RW II training has recommended objectives for the core course plus any site specific
objectives added for the site. Several approaches to retesting are being successfully
applied throughout the DOE complex, as described for the RW I course.
Section 21
Whichever pattern a site selects, the results should provide the data needed to meet
the determined purposes of the evaluations.
E. Radiological Control Technician (RCT) Training:
1. In-Field Observation:
RCT training consists of several phases. In Phase I, core lessons teach academic
theory. Different sites have organized and emphasized the information in different
ways to fit the needs and practices at the sites. In Phase II, practical skills are taught
based on a site specific job assessment.
One difficulty in performing on-the-job observations is correlating the schedule of the
observer with the schedule of the trainee. One approach to resolving this problem is
to associate specific skills or tasks learned in the training with work evolutions that
normally occur at the site.
Table 5 lists the tasks that will commonly appear in Phase II training in the left-hand
column. The top row lists work evolutions where these tasks might be observed. A
matrix could be prepared by marking an "X" in a box to show that a particular task
can be observed in a particular evolution. The matrix could then be used to correlate
with the procedures governing that evolution or task. An alternative is to prepare a
checklist to use during the observation. Table 6 shows a sample of such a checklist.
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TABLE 5
RCT Performance Tasks Cross-Referenced to Work Evolutions
WORK EVOLUTIONS PERFORMED IN THE FIELD
PERFORMANCE
TASKS
Air Sampling Contamination and
Radiation
Survey
Personnel and
Material
Release
Survey
Use of
Counter-Scaler
Equipment
Personnel
Decontami-nation
Equipment
Decontami-
nation
Access and
Radioactive
Source
Control
AIR SAMPLING TASKS
GROUP
Draw and field count a
grab sample
Calculate the activity of a
grab air sample
Calculate a continuous air
monitor (CAM) unit alarm
setpoint
Perform a background
check of a CAM
Perform CAM source/
efficiency check
Conduct an air sample
media exchange
CONTAMINATION
MONITORING
TASKS GROUP
Perform preoperational
checks of contamination
monitoring
instrumentation
Perform a removable
contamination survey
Perform a gross large area
smear contamination
survey
Perform a direct
contamination survey
Document contamination
survey results
DOE-HDBK-1122-99
WORK EVOLUTIONS PERFORMED IN THE FIELD
PERFORMANCE
TASKS
Air Sampling Contamination and
Radiation
Survey
Personnel and
Material
Release
Survey
Use of
Counter-Scaler
Equipment
Personnel
Decontami-nation
Equipment
Decontami-
nation
Access and
Radioactive
Source
Control
A-16
RADIATION
MONITORING
SKILLS GROUP
Perform preoperational
checks of radiation
monitoring
instrumentation
Perform a general area
dose rate survey
Perform a contact dose
rate survey
Document radiation survey
results
COUNTER-SCALER
EQUIPMENT
TASKS GROUP
Perform counter-scaler
preoperational checks
Field count a sample with
the counter-scaler
PROTECTIVE
EQUIPMENT
TASKS GROUP
Don anticontamination
clothing
Remove anticontamination
clothing
HAZARDS POSTING
TASKS GROUP
Post an area to reflect
hazards
Repost an area
Document posting
changes/updates
DOE-HDBK-1122-99
WORK EVOLUTIONS PERFORMED IN THE FIELD
PERFORMANCE
TASKS
Air Sampling Contamination and
Radiation
Survey
Personnel and
Material
Release
Survey
Use of
Counter-Scaler
Equipment
Personnel
Decontami-nation
Equipment
Decontami-
nation
Access and
Radioactive
Source
Control
A-17
PERSONNEL
DECONTAMINATION
TASKS GROUP
Perform skin/hair
decontamination
Section 22
Perform personal effects
decontamination
Perform nasal smears
RADIOACTIVE
SOURCES
TASKS GROUP
Perform an inventory of
radioactive sources
Leak check radioactive
sources
Document radioactive
source inventory/leak
check
DOCUMENTATION
TASKS GROUP
Complete field logbook
entry
Complete a request for
procedure change
Complete a Radiological
Problem Report form
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TABLE 6
Sample RCT Field Observation Guide
RCT FIELD OBSERVATION GUIDE #123
EVOLUTION: Personnel Release Survey
Instructions to Field Observer
Brief the subject RCT prior to commencing the field observation to relieve concerns about being observed.
Participant must perform the task without help. A debriefing after the completion of the evolution may be
appropriate in order to reinforce good habits and to correct weaknesses.
PERFORM PERSONNEL RELEASE SURVEYS
Perform a self survey or a survey of an individual for personnel release using portable contamination
monitoring instrumentation.
Make comments in the section at the end of this document. Use the
reference number associated with each of the skills listed below.
1
Inadequate
3
Adequate
5
Outstanding
1. Was the type or level of survey performed as called out by the
Radiation Work Permit or other procedure?
2. Was it verified by the RCT that daily preoperational checks on the
instrument(s) had been completed?
3. Was a preuse function check of the instrument performed?
4. Did the RCT determine the background radiation level prior to
commencing the personnel release survey?
5. Did the RCT hold the instrument probe at the proper distance?
6. Did the RCT scan for contamination at the proper speed?
7. While surveying, did the RCT monitor for an audible increase in
count rate above background?
*** IF Contamination was discovered *** - - -
8. Was Radiological Control supervision notified as required?
9. Was a thorough whole-body survey of the individual performed?
10. Was the event documented in accordance with prescribed
procedures?
DOE-HDBK-1122-99
PERFORM PERSONNEL RELEASE SURVEYS
Perform a self survey or a survey of an individual for personnel release using portable contamination
monitoring instrumentation.
Make comments in the section at the end of this document. Use the
reference number associated with each of the skills listed below.
1
Inadequate
3
Adequate
5
Outstanding
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11. If the individual was confirmed to be contaminated, were the
recommended steps taken to preclude the spread of contamination
and to proceed to a decontamination facility? Describe the actions
taken in the comments section at the end of this document.
NOTE: If personnel decontamination will be performed, see RCT Field
Observation Guide #XYZ.
COMMENTS (List by reference number)
DOE-HDBK-1122-99
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2. Discussion Questions:
RCT's support radiological work and engage in all activities in radiological areas. The
following questions could be part of the discussion:
a. How many millirems of exposure do you normally receive on your job in a year?
b. What is your annual dose limit? Administrative dose guideline; when was the last time it
was reported?
c. What types of radiation hazard exist at your facility?
d. What types of radiation are you exposed to in the course of your work? How do you
protect yourself from these hazards?
e. How do you practice ALARA in your work?
f. What is the sound of continuous air monitor alarms for your workplace?
g. How are employees at your work area warned of radiation hazards?
h. What are the biological symptoms you might display with increasing exposures to
Section 23
radiation?
i. What obligations do you have to maintain exposure to radiation ALARA?
j. What is dosimetry? What precautions should be taken when handling dosimeters?
k. What practices do you take to assure you do not spread contamination while donning
or doffing PC's?
l. What radiological training are you required to take? How does your training relate to
your job?
3. Written Exam:
Each site should determine critical objectives to be retested for each lesson or class.
Consideration should be given to the likelihood of a trainee having the opportunity to apply
the skills from the training in an actual work environment. If the trainee is in training for an
extended period of time, 2 to 4 months may pass without having had the opportunity to use
the skills in actual work.
DOE-HDBK-1122-99
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IV. REFERENCES
The following materials provide a wide range of detailed data regarding principles and practices
in evaluating training and will be useful for those desiring a more indepth understanding of the
evaluation process.
Dixon, Nancy M., "Evaluations: A Tool for HRD Improvement," University Associates, Inc. in
Association with the American Society for Training and Development, San Diego,
California, 1990.
"Guide to Good Practices: Evaluation Instrument Examples," DOE-STD-1006-92, The Office
of Scientific and Technical Information, U.S. Department of Energy, Washington, D.C.,
July 1992.
"Guidelines For Evaluation of Nuclear Facility Training Programs," DOE-STD-1070-94
(Review Copy), U.S. Department of Energy, Washington, D.C., April 19, 1994.
Kirkpatrick, Donald L., "Evaluating Training Programs," American Society for Training and
Development, Alexandria, Virginia, 1975.
Kirkpatrick, Donald L., "More Evaluating Training Programs," American Society for Training
and Development, Alexandria, Virginia, 1987.
Newby, A.C., "Evaluation Training Handbook," Pfeiffer & Company, San Diego, California,
1992.
Phillips, Jack J., "Handbook of Training Evaluation and Measurement Methods," Gulf
Publishing Company, Houston, Texas, 1983.
Robinson, Dana Gaines and James C., "Training For Impact," Jossey-Bass, Inc., San Francisco,
California, 1989.
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