DOE-STD-8001-2023, Environmental Protection Oversight Functional Area Qualification Standard
Functional area qualification standards (FAQS) establish common performance competencies in key nuclear facility functional areas for personnel in the Department of Energy (DOE) Technical Qualification Program (TQP). This FAQS establishes a common set of performance competencies to ensure designated personnel have the technical competency to perform the duties and responsibilities of an environmental protection oversight professional (EPOP). The content of this FAQS should be referenced and used, as appropriate, to develop vacancy announcements, interview questions, and other criteria associated with the recruitment, selection, and internal placement of personnel assigned to this FAQS.
Cancels:
Version history and related documents
Document text
Text extracted from the attached file. Refer to the original document for the authoritative version.
Section 1
NOT MEASUREMENT
SENSITIVE
DOE-STD-8001-2023
November 2023
DOE STANDARD
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
OVERSIGHT FUNCTIONAL AREA
QUALIFICATION STANDARD
DOE Defense Nuclear Facilities Technical Personnel
U.S. Department of Energy AREA TRNG
Washington, D.C. 20585
DISTRIBUTION STATEMENT A: Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.
DOE-STD-8001-2023
ii
This document is available on the Department of Energy
Federal Technical Capabilities Program
SharePoint Website at
https://ntc.doe.gov/sites/tqp/SitePages/Home.aspx
https://ntc.doe.gov/sites/tqp/SitePages/Home.aspx
DOE-STD-8001-2023
iii
APPROVAL
The Federal Technical Capabilities Panel is responsible for reviewing and approving Functional
Area Qualif ication Standards (FAQS) for Department-wide application. Approval of this FAQS
by the Federal Technical Capabilities Panel is indicated by the signature below.
DOE-STD-8001-2023
iv
INTENTIONALLY BLANK
DOE-STD-8001-2023
v
TABLE OF CONTENTS
APPROVAL .............................................................................................................................. iii
ACKNOWLEDGMENT ..............................................................................................................vi
ACRONYM LIST ...................................................................................................................... vii
PURPOSE ................................................................................................................................ 1
APPLICABILITY........................................................................................................................ 1
IMPLEMENTATION .................................................................................................................. 1
EVALUATION CRITERIA .......................................................................................................... 2
INITIAL QUALIFICATION AND CONTINUING TRAINING ............................................................. 3
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES ............................................................................................ 3
BACKGROUND AND EXPERIENCE ......................................................................................... 4
REQUIRED PERFORMANCE COMPETENCIES ...................................................................... 4
APPENDIX 1 .......................................................................................................................... 10
AIR SPECIALIST .................................................................................................................... 10
APPENDIX 2 .......................................................................................................................... 11
WATER SPECIALIST ............................................................................................................. 11
APPENDIX 3 .......................................................................................................................... 12
NEPA SPECIALIST ................................................................................................................ 12
APPENDIX A.......................................................................................................................... 13
INITIAL QUALIFICATION TRAINING RECOMMENDATIONS.................................................. 13
Section 2
APPENDIX B.......................................................................................................................... 15
CONTINUING TRAINING RECOMMENDATIONS ................................................................... 15
CONCLUDING MATERIAL ..................................................................................................... 16
DOE-STD-8001-2023
vi
ACKNOWLEDGMENT
The Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Enterprise Assessments, National Training Center (EA-50),
FTC Support Office facilitated the development of this environmental protection oversight (EPO)
FAQS.
The following environmental protection oversight professionals participated in the development of
this FAQS:
Aaron White (Team Leader) Office of Environmental Management (EM 4.31)
Victoria Little Office of Environmental Management (EM 3.11)
David Rast National Nuclear Security Agency (NA-ESH)
Thomas McDermott Pacific Northwest Site Office
Bryan Trimberger Richland Operations Office
Melissa A. Otero National Training Center (EA-50)
DOE-STD-8001-2023
vii
ACRONYM LIST
AEA Atomic Energy Act
CX Categorical Exclusion
CAA Clean Air Act
CWA Clean Water Act
CARP Climate action and resiliency plan
CERCLA Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act
DOE Department of Energy
eTQP electronic Technical Qualif ication Program
EPCRA Emergency Planning Community Right to Know Act
ESA Endangered Species Act
EA Environmental Assessment
EIS Environmental Impact Statement
EPOP Environmental protection oversight professional
FFCA Federal Facility Compliance Act
FIFRA Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act
FTCP Federal Technical Capabilities Panel
FONSI Finding of No Significant Impact
FAQS Functional area qualif ication standards
GTB General Technical Base
JTA Job Task Analysis
MPA Mandatory Performance Activities
MBTA Migratory Bird Treaty Act
MSHA Mine Safety Health Act
NEPA National Environmental Policy Act
NGPP National Groundwater Protection Policy
NHPA National Historic Preservation Act
NTC National Training Center
NCO NEPA Compliance Officer
OSHA Occupational Safety and Health Act
OPA Oil Pollution Act
PFAS/PFOA Per-polyfluoroalkyl substances and perfluorooctanoic acid
PPA Pollution Prevention Act
PCBs Polychlorinated biphenyls
PSD Prevention of significant deterioration
PHA Process hazard analysis
QS Qualif ication Standard
ROD Record of Decision (ROD)
RCRA Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA)
RHA Rivers and Harbors Act (RHA)
SDWA Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA)
SPCC Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure (SPCC)
SA Supplemental Analysis (SA)
TQP Technical Qualif ication Program (TQP)
TSCA Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA)
DOE-STD-8001-2023
1
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY
FUNCTIONAL AREA QUALIFICATION STANDARD
Environmental Protection Oversight
PURPOSE
Functional area qualif ication standards (FAQS) establish common performance competencies in
key nuclear facility functional areas for personnel in the Department of Energy (DOE) Technical
Qualif ication Program (TQP).
This FAQS establishes a common set of performance competencies to ensure designated
personnel have the technical competency to perform the duties and responsibilities of an
environmental protection oversight professional (EPOP).
The content of this FAQS should be referenced and used, as appropriate, to develop vacancy
announcements, interview questions, and other criteria associated with the recruitment,
selection, and internal placement of personnel assigned this FAQS.
Section 3
APPLICABILITY
The DOE Order (O) 426.1B, Federal Technical Capabilities, requires FAQS to be developed in
specific areas as a tool to assist DOE Program and Field Offices with implementation of their
organization specific TQP.
The EPO FAQS establishes common performance competencies for all DOE personnel who
perform EPO duties and responsibilities. For ease of transportability of qualif ications between
DOE elements, Program and Field Offices must use this FAQS without modification or addition
to the performance competency knowledge requirements.
Satisfactory and documented attainment of the performance competencies in this FAQS
ensures personnel possess the minimum requisite knowledge and skills to perform EPO duties
and tasks common to the DOE enterprise. DOE O 426.1B requires organization-specific
qualif ication standards to supplement this FAQS and establish unique performance
competencies at the organization (headquarters, f ield element, site, or facility) level.
IMPLEMENTATION
This FAQS, derived from an EPO Job Task Analysis (JTA), is comprised of performance
competencies based on task performances. Each performance competency includes
knowledge requirements and any mandatory performance activities (MPA) that need to be
completed in order to demonstrate that the performance competency has been met.
Evaluation guides have been developed that provide the expected level of knowledge that
DOE-STD-8001-2023
2
personnel assigned this FAQS must obtain for each related knowledge requirement, and for
designated qualifying officials (QO) who are responsible for verifying the attainment of these
knowledge requirements. The evaluation guides for this FAQS are available through the NTC
TQP support site at:
https://ntc.doe.gov/sites/tqp/tqpportal/TechnicalQualificationResources/Forms/Resources.asp
x.
The performance competencies in this FAQS include unique DOE knowledge requirements
that the candidate must obtain and then apply to specific job tasks that are identif ied as
mandatory performance activities (MPAs) in this FAQS. The overall objective of the MPAs is
to determine whether EPOP can apply the related knowledge to satisfactorily perform the
associate job task.
This FAQS is comprised of required common EPOP knowledge competencies followed by
appendices with topical area performance competencies. For initial qualif ication, all Federal
EPOP assigned this FAQS must demonstrate attainment of the knowledge in the “Required
Performance Competencies” section.
Upon completion of the required EPOP competency section of this FAQS, personnel may be
assigned one or more appendices within the selected topical area. Supervisors should select
the appendices that must be completed in their entirety based on the specific duties and
responsibilities assigned to the individual EPOP participant. If any duties are changed,
supervisors should follow the requirements in DOE Order 426.1b to determine if the
participant may be assigned any other applicable technical qualif ication standards.
The MPAs listed in this FAQS are required to be satisfactorily performed only once. If , during a
performance of the MPA, any of the evaluation criteria are not satisfactorily met, the designated
QO may require the candidate to perform the MPA again. In these cases, satisfactory
completion of the MPA only needs to be documented once.
Section 4
Some of the MPAs in this FAQS may already be included in organization-specific qualif ication
standards. In these cases, the designated QO needs to verify the documentation prepared by
the candidate then document the accommodation (as a part of this FAQS or during completion
of the organization specific qualif ication standard).
Candidates should perform the MPAs listed in the FAQS in their normal work environment, such
as in assigned facilities or areas where the associated mission work is being accomplished.
Supervisors may use other options to facilitate completion of the MPA requirements in cases
where candidates cannot perform the MPAs exactly as written in their normal work environment
within the required qualif ication timeframe. This could include performance of the MPA in a
simulated environment or making minor accommodations to the MPA or MPA evaluation criteria
to fit local conditions and limitations as agreed upon by the QO. The reason for any
accommodations for the MPA must be documented by the designated qualif ication official with
approval of the supervisor and local Federal Technical Capabilities Panel (FTCP) agent.
EVALUATION CRITERIA
Attainment of the performance competency knowledge requirements and MPAs listed in this FAQS
must be documented per the TQP plan (or the policy of the specific organization qualifying the
DOE-STD-8001-2023
3
individual) and the requirements in DOE O 426.1B, Federal Technical Capabilities.
Each performance competency includes knowledge requirements or MPAs that need to be
completed in order to demonstrate that the performance competency has been met. Attainment
of the performance competency knowledge requirements or MPAs listed in this FAQS must be
verified by a designated QO using one or a combination of the following methods listed in DOE O
426.1B:
• Satisfactory completion of a written examination
• Satisfactory completion of an oral evaluation
• Documented evaluation of equivalencies
• Completion of approved training courses that confirm attainment of specific knowledge
requirements
A designated QO must also verify successful completion of the MPAs in this FAQS. The QO
must verify that the evaluation criteria, including any organization specific requirements, were
satisfactorily met during observation of the MPA and/or review of the results of the MPA.
Satisfactory attainment of the performance competency knowledge requirements and MPAs
contained in this FAQS must be documented using the EPO FAQS qualif ication card in the
electronic Technical Qualif ication Program (eTQP) at https://etqp.ntc.doe.gov.
After verif ication of attainment of all the performance competency knowledge requirements and
the MPAs in this FAQS, an EPO candidate must satisfactorily complete the final qualif ication
activity requirements identified in DOE O 426.1B and any other applicable organization-specific
requirements before being designated as a Qualif ied EPOP.
INITIAL QUALIFICATION AND CONTINUING TRAINING
Appendix A, Initial Qualification Training Recommendations, includes a list of National Training
Center (NTC) and other training courses that support attainment of the required performance
competencies for EPOP and specialist participants.
Appendix B, Continuing Training Recommendations, states that environmental protection
oversight personnel shall participate in a continuing training and qualif ication program.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Section 5
Position-specific duties and responsibilities for EPOP are contained in organization-specific
qualif ication standards and position descriptions.
The following are typical duties and responsibilities expected of EPOP:
• Analyze documents related to environmental protection.
• Monitor day-to-day program activities to support periodic contractor performance
evaluations.
• Conduct oversight activities to evaluate contractor compliance to environmental
requirements and regulations.
https://etqp.ntc.doe.gov/
DOE-STD-8001-2023
4
• Provide subject-matter expertise as requested.
Technical support duties are dependent on an individual’s level of subject-matter expertise and
the needs of the organization and will not be addressed by any performance competencies in this
FAQS. Position-specific duties and responsibilities for EPOP should be included in other
qualif ication standards and position descriptions.
BACKGROUND AND EXPERIENCE
The knowledge requirements and associated MPAs identif ied in the FAQS were developed
based on the assumption that participants have the preferred education and experience
levels identif ied below. Based on input from the supervisor and QO, personnel assigned to
complete this FAQS may need additional developmental assignments and supporting training
to satisfactorily complete this FAQS.
The preferred education and experience for EPO are as follows:
1. Education: Bachelor’s degree in engineering or a science-related field or meeting the
alternative requirements specified for engineers or scientists in the Office of Personnel
Management’s general schedule qualif ication standards. An advanced technical degree
and/or a professional or industry certif ication is considered to be an advantage.
And/or
2. Experience: Industrial, military, Federal, state, or other directly related background that
has provided specialized experience in environmental compliance. Specialized
experience can be demonstrated through possession of the competencies outlined in
this standard.
REQUIRED PERFORMANCE COMPETENCIES
The performance competencies contained in this FAQS include knowledge requirements that
are in addition to, and distinct from, the knowledge requirements contained in the General
Technical Base (GTB) Part A and B Qualif ication Standard (QS). All EPO personnel completing
initial qualif ication must satisfy the knowledge requirements of the GTB Part A QS and the
knowledge requirements and MPAs in the GTB Part B QS prior to (or in parallel with) attaining
the knowledge requirements for the performance competencies in this FAQS. Each
performance competency defines the expected level of knowledge and performance an
individual must attain to meet the intent of this standard. Each performance competency is
further described by knowledge requirements and, if necessary, MPAs that describe the task(s)
that must be demonstrated to meet the intent of the related performance competency.
Note 1: When regulations, DOE directives, or other industry standards are referenced in this
FAQS, the most recent revision should be used. However, Environmental Protection
Oversight FAQS participants and QOs should also refer to the versions of requirements
included in the local contract during the attainment and verif ication of related knowledge
DOE-STD-8001-2023
5
requirements. Any applicable knowledge requirements in predecessor documents that are not
included in this FAQS should be included in the organization-specific QS or continuing
training program.
Section 6
Note 2: If specific evaluation criteria are not identif ied for any of the MPAs in this FAQS, the
following generic evaluation criteria should be used together with any local expectations to verify
acceptable completion of the particular MPA.
Generic MPA Evaluation Criteria
• Identify expectations (i.e., criteria) for the specific activity.
• Compare results to expectations (criteria) and document conclusions.
• Document the basis for any identif ied issues or recommendations.
• Discuss, if applicable, how you would communicate results to appropriate Federal and/or
contractor personnel.
Laws and Regulations
1. EPO personnel shall demonstrate knowledge of applicable laws and regulations that govern
environmental oversight.
Knowledge Requirements:
a. Discuss the general scope, purpose, and applicability of the following environmental
laws and regulations that pertain to performing the EPOP function:
i. Atomic Energy Act (AEA); Clean Air Act (CAA); Comprehensive
Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA); Clean
Water Act (CWA); National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA); Emergency
Planning Community Right to Know Act (EPCRA); Endangered Species Act
(ESA); Federal Facility Compliance Act (FFCA); Federal Insecticide,
Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA); Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA);
Mine Safety Health Act (MSHA); National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA);
Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA); Pollution Prevention Act (PPA);
Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA); Safe Drinking Water Act
(SDWA); and Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA).
b. Identify and discuss regulation-specific authorities as delegated to states and
individuals.
c. Discuss the general scope, purpose, and applicability of regional/state specific
environmental regulations.
d. Discuss the environmental reporting as required through environmental regulations,
site-specific permits, and Executive Orders.
DOE Directives Program
2. An EPOP shall demonstrate knowledge of the DOE Directives Program along with the DOE
Technical standards Program.
Knowledge Requirements:
a. Identify environmental reporting requirements as required by applicable DOE
directives and technical standards.
b. Discuss the environmental reporting requirements under DOE O 231.1 Environment,
Safety, and Health Reporting.
DOE-STD-8001-2023
6
Interested Parties
3. An EPOP shall demonstrate knowledge of how to appropriately engage with interested
parties.
Knowledge Requirements:
a. Describe existing communication with interested parties such as: Headquarters, f ield
elements, regulatory agencies, the public, and others regarding compliance status of
environmental, regulatory, and technical requirements.
i. List and describe stakeholders pertinent to your oversight responsibilities.
ii. List Federally recognized American Indian Tribes pertinent to your oversight
responsibilities.
iii. Explain the unique relationship that Federally recognized American Indian
tribes have with the Federal government.
Regulatory Engagement
4. An EPOP shall demonstrate knowledge of how to appropriately engage with regulatory
agencies.
a. List and describe regulatory agencies applicable to your environmental oversight
responsibilities.
Section 7
Mandatory Performance Activity (MPA)
MPA 4.1: EPO personnel shall actively participate in addressing the technical elements of
environmental protection, compliance, and/or related activities with other DOE/contractor
technical experts and, as applicable, experts from other government agencies such as the
EPA, NRC, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, state regulators, or other environmental
protection advisory organizations.
A. Serve as a team member for a project or program that requires multidisciplinary
technical expertise.
B. Observe the performance of external regulatory inspections of environmental
programs (RCRA, air, drinking water, etc.).
C. Discuss the purpose of regulatory agreements and techniques that could be used to
negotiate such agreements.
Project and Contract Management
5. EPO personnel shall demonstrate knowledge of project management and site contracts as
they pertain to environmental protection.
Knowledge Requirements:
a. Discuss project management concepts:
i. Demonstrate knowledge of cost, scope, and scheduling for a project or
program.
ii. Demonstrate knowledge of project performance measures and metrics
(Earned Value Management Systems).
iii. Discuss the role of an EPOP as part of a project team.
b. EPO personnel shall demonstrate awareness of Risk Management Plans.
c. Identify and discuss contract requirements associated with national and local
environmental program requirements, policies, and practices.
Technical Expertise
6. EPO personnel shall demonstrate a knowledge of oversight activities that are used to
evaluate contractor performance in implementing site environmental programs.
DOE-STD-8001-2023
7
Knowledge Requirements:
a. Discuss environmental program management activities that resolve environmental
challenges such as:
i. Per-polyfluoroalkyl substances and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFAS/PFOA),
ii. Asbestos,
iii. Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs),
iv. Mercury,
v. Greenhouse gases, and
vi. Ozone depleting substances.
b. Discuss the principles, concepts, and methodologies of environmental restoration.
c. Discuss environmental risk management and environmental risk communication.
i. Discuss the effectiveness of new concepts, ideas, and scientif ic and
technological trends for application to DOE projects/programs.
ii. Discuss the Data Quality Objectives process and why data must be
defensible and in conjunction with the QA/QC program.
iii. Demonstrate knowledge of DOE's approach to the following environmental
risk analysis/assessments:
1. process hazard analysis (PHA),
2. performance assessments,
3. composite analysis,
4. ecological risk assessments,
5. natural phenomena hazards assessments,
6. NEPA, and
7. Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment and Resilience
Planning.
iv. Awareness of nuclear, laboratory, industrial, support facilities, and
operations at the assigned site(s) from the standpoint of:
1. historic properties,
2. NEPA,
3. long-term stewardship,
4. water quality, and
5. environmental management systems.
v. Discuss the basic principles and concepts and their application to
environmental programs for:
1. meteorology,
2. ecology,
3. hydrology,
4. geology, and
5. soil science.
vi. Discuss general safety requirements/precautions regarding chemicals,
materials, and waste.
d. Discuss sampling and analysis programs and their data collection techniques and
equipment related to environmental compliance.
e. Describe trend analysis applicable to DOE’s environmental projects/programs.
Section 8
Mandatory Performance Activity (MPA)
MPA 6.1: EPO personnel shall analyze current data against established environmental
standards.
DOE-STD-8001-2023
8
Oversight
7. EPO personnel shall evaluate contractor programs to ensure corrective actions are
accomplished in a timely, cost-effective manner, and that activities adequately support the
program objective.
Knowledge Requirements:
a. Discuss current pollution prevention programs such as:
i. Recycling,
ii. Spill pollution prevention, and
iii. Waste reduction.
b. Review and evaluate corrective actions associated with an environmental
management system.
c. Discuss actions related to the climate action and resiliency plan (CARP).
Mandatory Performance Activity (MPA)
MPA 7.1: Evaluate the technical and programmatic adequacy of an environmental
program plan, project, or document against applicable DOE Orders; Federal, state, and
local regulations; and agreements with states to ensure compliance with regulations.
Permitting
8. EPO personnel shall describe applicable environmental permitting processes and their
implementation.
Knowledge Requirements:
a. Discuss the negotiation process as it applies environmental permits.
b. Describe environmental regulation permitting, compliance, and analysis.
c. Discuss and define permit reporting activities as applicable to site needs.
d. Demonstrate knowledge regarding environmental monitoring programs and
compliance with permit requirements.
e. Demonstrate knowledge of waste and materials management in accordance with
permit requirements.
f. Discuss the resolution processes for Notices of Violation or other forms of regulatory
notif ications or enforcement.
g. Discuss the benefits of the self-disclosed violation policies offered by certain
regulations.
Nuclear Safety
9. EPO personnel shall discuss nuclear safety requirements associated with environmental
programs.
Knowledge Requirements:
a. Review Technical Safety Requirements and Justif ication for Continued Operations
that pertain to environmental programs associated with nuclear activities.
b. Discuss DOE O 458.1 and how your program ensures potential radiation exposures
to members of the public, works and the environment meeting ALARA standards.
Assessments
10. EPO personnel shall discuss Environmental Compliance Assessments.
Mandatory Performance Activity (MPA)
MPA 10.1: EPO personnel shall actively participate in Environmental Compliance Assessments.
DOE-STD-8001-2023
9
a. Conduct at least two of the following activities:
i. On-site project or program reviews,
ii. Contribute significantly to the preparation of reports and their related activities,
iii. Physical walkthroughs,
iv. Inspections.
DOE-STD-8001-2023
10
APPENDIX 1
AIR SPECIALIST
1. EPO personnel with an air specialization shall demonstrate knowledge of applicable laws and
regulations pertaining to the Clean Air Act (CAA).
Knowledge Requirements:
a. Discuss the application of the CAA to DOE and/or its facilities.
b. Identify the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (primary and secondary).
c. Discuss the National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants.
d. Describe the requirements for permitting, monitoring, and reporting prescribed in the
regulations that implement Title V of the CAA.
i. Describe the prevention of significant deterioration (PSD) regarding the
requirements established by the Clean Air Act.
ii. Identify the major sources and emission limitations per the Clean Air Act, Title
Section 9
I.
e. Discuss the modeling requirements for monitoring and close calculation air dispersion.
f. Discuss the New Source Performance Standards (40 CFR 60).
g. Describe the Clean Air Act, Title V, Stratospheric Ozone Protection criteria.
h. Describe, in general, the purpose and function of various pollution abatement
equipment/technologies:
i. Cyclones,
ii. Baghouse,
iii. Electrostatic precipitator,
iv. Thermal oxidizer,
v. Scrubber, and
vi. Adsorption.
Mandatory Performance Activity (MPA)
MPA AS1.1: Air specialists shall evaluate and ensure the adequacy of air quality
programs associated with the Clean Air Act (CAA) and delegated state programs, with
specific attention paid to the environmental monitoring, compliance, and protection
programs.
A. Evaluate and ensure the adequacy of a contractor air quality program.
DOE-STD-8001-2023
11
APPENDIX 2
WATER SPECIALIST
1. EPO personnel with a water specialization shall demonstrate knowledge of applicable laws
and regulations pertaining to water quality.
Knowledge Requirements:
a. Discuss the application of the Clean Water Act (CWA), including:
i. Storm water management aspects of the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination
Standard (NPDES),
ii. The spill prevention and control requirements (40 CFR 109-114) to the Department
of Energy and/or its facilities,
iii. The water quality criteria and stream use classification
iv. Permitting requirements including monitoring and reporting. Include in the discussion
National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Program and the Rivers, Harbors
Act Dredge/Fill material permits, and the “sheen rule.”
b. Discuss the application of Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA), including:
i. The standards for maximum contaminant levels (primary and secondary),
ii. The permitting requirements, and
iii. The aquifer protection (sole source) regulations.
c. Describe the groundwater protection requirements applicable to Resource Conservation and
Recovery Act's (RCRA’s) facilities.
d. Discuss National Groundwater Protection Policy (NGPP), Oil Pollution Act (OPA), Rivers
and Harbors Act (RHA), and the Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure (SPCC)
Rule applying to the DOE and/or its facilities.
e. Describe a standard analytical method or technique for water and wastewater.
f. Discuss cross-connection identif ication/elimination and backflow prevention.
Mandatory Performance Activity (MPA)
MPA WS1.1: Water specialists shall observe a sampling collection activity under contractor
stormwater, surface water, wastewater, groundwater, and/or drinking water programs.
A. Discuss the environmental monitoring, compliance, and protection programs associated
with the above programs.
B. Evaluate and assure the adequacy of a contractor’s water quality
protection/management program.
C. Discuss the QA/QC requirements of the sampling collection activity.
DOE-STD-8001-2023
12
APPENDIX 3
NEPA SPECIALIST
1. EPO personnel with a NEPA specialization shall demonstrate knowledge of applicable laws,
regulations, policy, directives, guidance, and procedures pertaining to DOE NEPA compliance.
Knowledge Requirements:
a. Explain the purpose and scope of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), as
amended, and the Council on Environmental Quality NEPA implementing regulations (40
CFR 1500-1508).
b. Discuss the purpose and content specified by 10 CFR 1021, National Environmental Policy
Act Implementing Procedures.
c. Discuss the purpose and scope of DOE NEPA Compliance Program Policy (DOE P 451.1).
Section 10
d. Discuss the integration of consultation requirements under other environmental legislation
(e.g., National Environmental Policy Act and Endangered Species Act, Fish and Wildlife
Coordination Act, National Historic Preservation Act).
e. Discuss the differences between the following documents:
• Categorical Exclusion (CX),
• Environmental Assessment (EA),
• Environmental Impact Statement (EIS),
• Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI),
• Record of Decision (ROD),
• Supplemental Analysis (SA), and
• Supplemental EIS.
f. Describe the NEPA public participation process, including when it is required for different
NEPA documents and considerations for the use of public participation when it is not
required.
g. Describe conditions that are integral elements of categorical exclusions.
h. Describe segmentation as it applies to NEPA.
i. Discuss the availability of site- and Program Office-specific NEPA policies, procedures, and
guidance.
Mandatory Performance Activity (MPA)
MPA NS1.1: Under supervision by a designated NEPA Compliance Officer (NCO), analyze
whether a proposed action is eligible for a categorical exclusion from further NEPA review
and, if so, write the draft determination to be signed by the NCO.
MPA NS1.2: The NEPA specialist shall analyze and discuss the technical adequacy of at
least one EIS, at least one EA document, and at least one SA document.
DOE-STD-8001-2023
13
APPENDIX A
INITIAL QUALIFICATION TRAINING RECOMMENDATIONS
Technical education and/or training may include courses/training provided by the Department of
Energy, other government agencies, outside vendors, or local educational institutions. Training
topics should also address identif ied weaknesses in the knowledge and/or skills of the individual
personnel and current technical issues related to the associated FAQS.
Table 1: Initial Qualif ication Training Recommendations
Laws and Regulations Environmental Regulations Overview, NTC, Learning
Nucleus
PMCDP Environmental Laws & Regulations, NTC,
Learning Nucleus
Regulatory and Industry Standards for EHS, NTC,
Learning Nucleus
EC113, (LM) National Environmental Policy Act General
Awareness, NTC, Learning Nucleus
Introduction to National Environmental Policy Act, NTC,
Learning Nucleus
DOE Policy DOEO435.1 Rad Waste Management, NTC, Learning
Nucleus
DOE Order Self Study Modules - DOE O 458.1,
Radiation Protection of the Public and the Environment
(energy.gov), DOE, energy.gov
Interested Parties E-COMM, (LM) Environmentally Related External
Communication, NTC, Learning Nucleus
EC114, (LM) Cultural Resources Management, NTC,
Learning Nucleus
Regulatory Engagement (see Laws and Regulations recommended training)
Contract Management (see Project Management recommended training)
Project Management Breaking the Code: Understanding Project Management,
NTC, Learning Nucleus
Introduction to Project Management, NTC, Learning
Nucleus
Earned Value Management Systems (EVMS), NTC,
Learning Nucleus
Defining and Identifying Project Risk (2021 Update),
Section 11
https://learningnucleus.energy.gov/course/view.php?id=75925
https://learningnucleus.energy.gov/course/view.php?id=38120
https://learningnucleus.energy.gov/course/view.php?id=83869
https://learningnucleus.energy.gov/course/view.php?id=79041
https://learningnucleus.energy.gov/course/view.php?id=79041
https://learningnucleus.energy.gov/course/view.php?id=83097
https://learningnucleus.energy.gov/course/view.php?id=71548
https://www.energy.gov/sites/prod/files/2013/06/f1/O-458-1_ssm.pdf
https://www.energy.gov/sites/prod/files/2013/06/f1/O-458-1_ssm.pdf
https://www.energy.gov/sites/prod/files/2013/06/f1/O-458-1_ssm.pdf
https://learningnucleus.energy.gov/course/view.php?id=79046
https://learningnucleus.energy.gov/course/view.php?id=79046
https://learningnucleus.energy.gov/course/view.php?id=79043
https://learningnucleus.energy.gov/course/view.php?id=71392
https://learningnucleus.energy.gov/course/view.php?id=83253
https://learningnucleus.energy.gov/course/view.php?id=71395
https://learningnucleus.energy.gov/course/view.php?id=83798
DOE-STD-8001-2023
14
NTC, Learning Nucleus
Technical Expertise Site-specific HAZWOPER course
Environmental Management Systems (EMS), NTC,
Learning Nucleus
Oversight DOE-110DE, Oversight Fundamentals, NTC, Learning
Nucleus
DOE-120, DOE Oversight and Implementation, NTC,
Learning Nucleus
Evaluating a Contractor's Performance, NTC, Learning
Nucleus
Permitting (see Laws and Regulations recommended training)
Nuclear Safety SBA-100DE, Nuclear Facility Safety Basis
Fundamentals, NTC, Learning Nucleus
SBA-160DE, USQ Process, NTC, Learning Nucleus
Assessments ASME NQA-1 Lead Auditor Training, NTC, Learning
Nucleus
DOE-320, Causal Analysis and Corrective Action, NTC,
Learning Nucleus
Air Specialist Airknowledge.gov, EPA, eLearning courses
Water Specialist Water Quality Standards Academy, EPA, online and
classroom courses
NEPA Specialist CEQ NEPA website (NEPA.gov), DOE NEPA website
(www.energy.gov/nepa), online and classroom courses
NOTE: There are many external providers who provide industry training. Suggested providers of
additional training are listed below:
• McCoy and Associates Seminars
o RCRA, CAA
• Fed Center
o Various training courses on a variety of topics
• Aarcher Institute, Shipley Group, Street Legal
o Various EHS-based training courses
https://learningnucleus.energy.gov/course/view.php?id=79386
https://learningnucleus.energy.gov/course/view.php?id=74663
https://learningnucleus.energy.gov/course/view.php?id=74679
https://learningnucleus.energy.gov/course/view.php?id=86056
https://learningnucleus.energy.gov/course/view.php?id=74580
https://learningnucleus.energy.gov/course/view.php?id=74580
https://learningnucleus.energy.gov/course/view.php?id=74521
https://learningnucleus.energy.gov/course/view.php?id=86258
https://learningnucleus.energy.gov/course/view.php?id=74688
https://airknowledge.gov/
https://www.epa.gov/wqs-tech/water-quality-standards-academy
http://nepa.gov/
http://www.energy.gov/nepa
https://www.mccoyseminars.com/
http://www.fedcenter.gov/
https://aarcherinstitute.com/
https://www.shipleygroup.com/
http://slind.net/OutreachEducationAndTrainingServices.html
DOE-STD-8001-2023
15
APPENDIX B
CONTINUING TRAINING RECOMMENDATIONS
EPO personnel shall participate in a continuing training and qualif ication program that includes
the following elements:
Section 12
1. Continuing technical education and/or training covering topics directly related to EPO
as determined appropriate by management. This may include courses/training provided
by DOE, other government agencies, outside vendors, or local educational institutions.
Continuing training topics should also address identif ied weaknesses in the knowledge
or skills of individual personnel.
2. Specific continuing training requirements shall be documented in Individual
Development Plans.
DOE-STD-8001-2023
16
CONCLUDING MATERIAL
Review Activity: Preparing Activity:
EM EA-50
NA
NE
SC
EA Project Number:
DOE-STD-8001-2022
Field and Operations Offices:
CBFO
CH
ID
OH
OR
ORP
RL
SR
Field or Site Offices:
Argonne Site Office
Brookhaven Site Office
Fermi Site Office
Kansas City Field Office
Livermore Field Office
Los Alamos Field Office
Nevada Field Office
NNSA Production Office
Pacific Northwest Site Office
Princeton Area Office
Savannah River Field Office
Sandia Field Office
APPROVAL
ACKNOWLEDGMENT
ACRONYM LIST
PURPOSE
APPLICABILITY
IMPLEMENTATION
EVALUATION CRITERIA
INITIAL QUALIFICATION AND CONTINUING TRAINING
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
BACKGROUND AND EXPERIENCE
REQUIRED PERFORMANCE COMPETENCIES
APPENDIX 1
AIR SPECIALIST
APPENDIX 2
WATER SPECIALIST
APPENDIX 3
NEPA SPECIALIST
APPENDIX A
INITIAL QUALIFICATION TRAINING RECOMMENDATIONS
APPENDIX B
CONTINUING TRAINING RECOMMENDATIONS
CONCLUDING MATERIAL