Preliminary study to assess the effectiveness of training and inspections of safety-critical work by operators during post-operational and decommissioning activities

A review of German and international rules and regulations reveals that requirements on training of safetyrelevant decommissioning tasks are very generic. The same is true with respect to requirements on the control of the performance of such tasks. Decommissioning tasks can necessitate special trainings and control measures to support the correct performance of these tasks. The present study recommends: (1) From the first planning-steps to task-completion, preparation and performance of the task should be structured in phases. In each phase the need for training and control measures has to be identified progressively and it has to be determined how to meet this demand and within which time-frame training and control measures must be implemented to take effect. The present study shows how to use balanced scorecards as a means of planning, implementation, and evaluation of the effectiveness of training and control measures. An illustrative example shows how the balanced scorecard-approach can be used to evaluate a training measure related to a decommissioning task. (2) Training should be based on training material which underwent a process of strict quality assurance and which is designed in line with human factors aspects. Training locations should be provided with best possible external conditions (e. g. lighting). Trainer and trainees have to be motivated and fit for training. In the training process there should be sufficient time for repetitions and breaks. Trainers should inform themselves about trainees' prior knowledge, they should structure training contents in a systematic way, and stimulate trainees' active participation in discussions and exercises. In addition to classroom training, training in sessions, which are not integrated in real work processes, and training on the job the present study addresses self-organized learning (self-study). In such vases, a tutor should be available for questions and explanations. (3) Control tasks should be planned in a precise manner. Personnel in charge of control tasks should undergo a training or sensibilization showing them what they have to control and how they have to perform their control tasks. External conditions should support an effective performance of the control task in the best possible way (e. g. unobstructed field of view, lighting).