Qualification licensing system for supervisory operators at nuclear power plant

Taking the opportunity of the TMI-2 nuclear power accident in March, 1979, in the United States, in order to ensure the safety of nuclear power plants, the qualification licensing system for supervisory operators was started in November, 1980. Under the system, the Thermal and Nuclear Power Engineering Society of Japan was designated as an organ for the purpose, and it performs operation skill test, lecture course and oral examination for the applicants from electric power companies. The successful applicants are then granted the qualification license. Meanwhile, the respective power companies must employ the licensed personnel to operate a nuclear power plant, starting in June, 1982. The licensing system is summarized, and in this connection, the similar systems in the United States and Canada are briefed. (J.P.N.)