Training of nuclear power plant personnel practices in Finland

Four nuclear power units are in commercial operation in Finland. TVO operates two 735 MW BWR units of Swedish design and IVO two 465 PWR units of Soviet design. Good availability figures have been reached during the last five years for all plants. Many different factors have been contributing to the success of nuclear power in Finland. The advanced training of the plant personnel combined with a high educational level of plant personnel is undoubtedly one of the most important factors. Another important factor has been the low turnover rate of the staff at the plant and in the nuclear industry in general. The favorable regulatory climate in Finland with open and trustworthy relations between the power companies and the authorities has also been an important contribution to the success. The paper gives an overview of the training of nuclear power plant personnel as seen from authorities', the power companies' and the research institutions' points of view