**NRC INSPECTION MANUAL** CCIB

MANUAL CHAPTER 1252

CONSTRUCTION INSPECTOR

TRAINING AND QUALIFICATION PROGRAM

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

1252-01 PURPOSE 1

1252-02 OBJECTIVES 1

1252-03 DEFINITIONS 1

1252-04 RESPONSIBILITIES AND AUTHORITIES 3

04.01 Associate Director for Training and Development,

> Office of Human Resources 3

04.02 Director, Office of New Reactors 3

04.03 Director, Office of Nuclear Reactor Regulation 3

04.04 Director, Office of Nuclear Security and Incident Response 3

04.05 Deputy Regional Administrator for Construction 3

04.06 Directors, NRO and Regional Construction Divisions 3

04.07 NRO (Construction Inspection and Allegations Branch) 3

04.08 Branch Chief of qualifying individuals 4

1252-05 REQUIREMENTS 4

> 05.01 Training and Qualification Requirements 4
>
> 05.02 Alternate Methods for Meeting a Program Requirement 4
>
> 05.03 Final Qualification Activity 5

Inspector Qualification Board. 5

Board Recommendations 6

Re-examination Board 6

Board Documentation 6

> 05.04 Maintaining Qualification 6
>
> 05.05 Other Administrative Requirements 7

Formal Training Requirements and Expectations 7

Technical Experts 7

> 05.07 Deviations 7

1252-06 POST-QUALIFICATION TRAINING 8

> 06.01 Refresher Training 8
>
> 06.02 Continuing Training 8

1252-07 MONITORING PROGRAM EFFECTIVENESS 8

1252-08 PROGRAM REVISIONS 8

ATTACHMENT 1 General Overview of the Construction Inspector

Training and Qualification Program ATT1-1

ATTACHMENT 2 Inspector Competencies ATT2-1

ATTACHMENT 3 General Orientation Topics ATT3-1

ATTACHMENT 4: Construction Inspector Qualification Requirements

(for Inspectors Previously Qualified Under

> MC1245 or MC1246)
>
> Signature Card and Division Director Certification ATT4-1

1252-01 PURPOSE

01.01 To define the initial training and qualification requirements for
staff performing inspections of reactor construction activities.

01.02 To define the training and qualification requirements for staff
who have previously qualified as inspectors using MC 1245 or MC 1246 and
will be performing inspections of reactor construction activities.

01.03 To establish the requirements for completing refresher and
continuing training as a means for updating and maintaining
qualification.

01.04 To establish the requirement and define the process for evaluating
the effectiveness of the inspector training and qualification process.

1252-02 OBJECTIVES

02.01 To ensure that the NRC staff has the necessary knowledge and skill
to successfully implement the construction inspection program.

02.02 To ensure that the inspector training and qualification program
remains effective in preparing inspectors to implement the construction
inspection program.

1252-03 DEFINITIONS

03.01 [Attitude]{.underline}. A manner of performing tasks that
demonstrates an understanding of and an appreciation for the NRC\'s
organizational values of integrity, excellence, service, respect,
cooperation, commitment, and openness.

03.02 [Basic Inspector Certification]{.underline}. A certification made
by the trainee=s supervisor which signifies that the individual has
successfully completed all basic level inspector training and
qualification activities. Achieving Basic Inspector Certification allows
an individual to perform limited scope inspection activities. Inspection
activities will be specifically assigned and are to be performed with an
appropriate degree of detailed supervision.

03.03 [Basic-Level Training and Qualification]{.underline}. The
activities designed to provide newly hired staff with an awareness of
basic information related to the Agency, the role of the inspector, and
the technology being regulated, and to provide a context for the
development of proficiency as an inspector. Successful completion of
Basic-Level Training leads to Basic Inspector Certification.

03.04 [Competency]{.underline}. The group of related knowledge, skills
and attitudes describing the characteristics needed to perform
successfully as an inspector.

03.05 [Continuing Training]{.underline}. Activities designed to build on
what a trainee learned in initial training by:

> a\. Providing more in-depth knowledge in areas that are covered in
> initial training.
>
> b\. Addressing changes to the programs and processes that affect how
> NRC staff conduct job related activities.
>
> c\. Providing lessons learned from recent industry and agency
> activities.

03.06 [Deviation]{.underline}. The determination by management, based on
an assessment of prior inspection experience and training, that an
individual can perform construction inspections without having completed
the full formal construction inspection qualification process. Refer to
paragraph 05.07 for additional discussion on Deviations.

03.07 [Equivalency Examination]{.underline}. An examination administered
through the training organization or its contractors, in lieu of
specific course attendance.

03.08 [Full Inspector Qualification]{.underline}. A certification by the
Regional Administrator or Office Director, the basis of which is a
recommendation by the Inspector Qualification Board. Full Inspector
Qualification indicates that the individual has completed all
Basic-Level and Proficiency-Level inspector training and qualification
activities. Achieving Full Inspector Qualification allows an individual
to be assigned the full scope of inspection related activities to be
independently performed with routine oversight and supervision.

03.09 [Individual Study Activity Training (ISA)]{.underline}. A training
method that uses personal study activities involving review of resource
information and staff interviews to develop the required job-related
knowledge and skills

03.10 [Initial Training and Qualification]{.underline}. The complete set
of training activities (individual-study, classroom, on-the-job
training) that covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes needed to
successfully achieve Full Inspector Qualification.

03.11 [Inspector]{.underline}. An individual who conducts inspection
activities including individual or team inspections. Activities can take
place either on-site or at remote locations.

03.12 [Knowledge]{.underline}. The facts, concepts, ideas, and
relationships that support successful on-the-job performance. Normally
referenced together with skills and attitudes and abbreviated as KSAs.

03.13 [On-the-job Training (OJT)]{.underline}. A training method that
uses structured hands-on activities to develop the required job-related
knowledge and skills.

03.14 [Post-Qualification Training]{.underline}. Training received after
qualification to supplement or enhance the professional development of
NRC staff. (See also Refresher Training and Continuing Training.)

03.15 [Proficiency-Level Training and Qualification]{.underline}. The
activities designed to develop the technical knowledge and interpersonal
skills of inspectors already qualified at the basic level. Successful
completion of the Proficiency Level Training and Qualification
activities leads to Full Inspector Qualification.

03.16 [Inspector Qualification Board]{.underline}. A board, consisting
of management and inspection staff, established to assess the
qualifications of an individual to independently perform the prescribed
construction inspections.

03.17 [Qualification Journal]{.underline}. The document listing the
requirements for achieving qualification and containing the
documentation of successful completion of the formal classroom
instruction, on-the-job training, and individual-study activity
requirements.

03.18 [Refresher Training]{.underline}. Activities designed to maintain
the overall level of performance by:

> a\. Readdressing some KSAs presented in initial training, particularly
> those that are related to important tasks that are hard to do or not
> performed very often.
>
> b\. Providing training in areas where individual or program
> performance has been identified as needing improvement.

03.19 [Skill]{.underline}. A demonstrated ability and level of expertise
to perform tasks successfully on-the-job.

03.20 [Specialized and Advanced Training]{.underline}. Technical
training which increases the depth of an individual=s knowledge in a
specific area. Specialized and advanced training can be completed after
completing the inspector qualification requirements or concurrent with
other Proficiency-Level training. However, unless specifically
identified in the proficiency-level training for the inspector
classification, specialized and advanced training are not required for
Full Inspector Qualification.

1252-04 RESPONSIBILITIES AND AUTHORITIES

04.01 [Associate Director for Training and Development, Office of Human
Resources]{.underline}. Administers and implements the formal training
programs for the Office of New Reactors (NRO) as identified in this
manual chapter. Assesses training course effectiveness and identifies
areas where the course content needs to be revised.

04.02 [Director, Office of New Reactors]{.underline}. Establishes the
training qualification requirements for staff who perform activities for
which NRO is responsible. Certifies the headquarters NRR staff who
qualify under this manual chapter.

04.03 [Director, Office of Nuclear Reactor Regulation]{.underline}.
Ensures that IMC 1252 is prepared, revised, and issued in accordance
with agency procedures. Ensures that NRR staff designated as
construction inspectors achieve and maintain qualifications in
accordance with the guidelines in this manual chapter. Certifies the
headquarters NRR staff who qualify under this manual chapter.

04.04 [Director, Office of Nuclear Security and Incident
Response]{.underline}. Ensures that NSIR staff designated as
construction inspectors achieve and maintain qualifications in
accordance with the guidelines in this manual chapter. Certifies the
headquarters NSIR staff who qualify under this manual chapter.

04.05 [Deputy Regional Administrator for Construction]{.underline}.
Ensures that the regional staff achieves and maintains qualifications in
accordance with the guidelines in this manual chapter. Develops
procedures for implementing this manual chapter for regional staff.
Certifies that regional staff are qualified under this manual chapter.

04.06 [Directors, NRO and Regional Construction Divisions]{.underline}.
Approves the use of and accepts the justification for using an alternate
method for meeting qualification program requirements. Assists the
Office of Human Resources in developing, monitoring, and reviewing
formal training courses for inspector qualification programs.

04.07 [NRO (Construction Inspection and Allegations
Branch)]{.underline}. Develops and maintains, in conjunction with the
Associate Director for Training and Development, Regions, and
headquarters staff, the qualification journal for construction
inspectors. Evaluates proposed changes to the NRO programs for impacts
on training. Periodically reviews and assesses the effectiveness of
staff in implementing the construction inspection program to identify
needed refresher and continuing training topics. Assesses the inspector
training and qualification program effectiveness and identifies areas
where the program needs to be revised. Approves deviation requests.

04.08 [Branch Chief of qualifying individuals]{.underline}. Assigns
fully qualified individuals to work with trainees during the
qualification process. Ensures that qualifying individuals have
successfully completed the basic level requirements. Requests
deviations, as appropriate, from the Program Office. Certifies that the
individual is qualified to the Basic Level. Assesses the ability of the
qualifying individual and provides appropriate levels of detailed
supervision based on the individual=s level of proficiency. At the
Proficiency Level, ensures an individual=s readiness to independently
perform job responsibilities. Recommends each qualifying individual
assigned to them as prepared for review by the Inspector Qualification
Board.

1252-05 REQUIREMENTS

Construction inspectors must understand the programs and processes being
used to construct new reactors, as well as the criteria, techniques,
processes and procedures for implementing the NRC=s construction
inspection program (CIP). The qualification process is intended to
provide staff with sufficient information to perform inspection
activities that are technically correct and in accordance with NRC
regulations, policies, and procedures.

-   Attachment 1, AGeneral Overview of the Construction Inspector
    Training and Qualification Program,@ is a summary description of the
    program for qualifying inspectors.

-   Attachment 2, AInspector Competencies,@ lists the competencies which
    serve as the basis for the inspector qualification requirements.

-   Attachment 3, AGeneral Orientation Topics,@ lists topics that are
    not part of the formal inspector qualification program but are
    important for general employee administrative knowledge and are
    provided as a convenience for supervisors.

-   Attachment 4, AConstruction Inspector Qualification Certification
    for Previously Qualified Inspectors Under MC1245 or MC1246,@
    provides the training requirements and necessary documentation that
    will constitute completion of the construction inspector
    qualification for those inspectors previously qualified under MC1245
    or MC1246.

05.01 [Training and Qualification Requirements.]{.underline} Staff
assigned to perform construction inspections must have successfully
completed the qualification program contained in this manual chapter
within (24) months.

05.02 [Alternate Methods for Meeting a Program Requirement]{.underline}.
All staff must successfully meet all of the training and qualification
program requirements. However, previous work experience and training may
be accepted as evidence that an individual already possesses the
required knowledge or skills normally achieved by completing parts of
the program. Individuals should be given credit for previous experience
and training when completing the requirements outlined in this manual
chapter.

p.  [Previous Experience]{.underline}: The individual=s division
    director has the authority to accept previous experience and
    training as an alternate method for meeting the requirements
    contained in this Manual Chapter. Justification for accepting
    previous experience and training to meet program requirements must
    be documented and recorded in the individual\'s training record.
    Forms for documenting the equivalency justification are located in
    each qualification journal.

> b\. [Appropriate Knowledge Level]{.underline}: The individual=s
> division director may request that the individual demonstrate the
> appropriate level of knowledge or skill by successfully completing an
> equivalency examination. Requests for equivalency examinations should
> be made by the individual\'s supervisor to the Associate Director for
> Training and Development.
>
> c\. I[nspectors Qualified in Other Areas.]{.underline} Individuals who
> are in the process of qualifying as an inspector under MC1245 or
> MC1246 may also qualify as a construction inspector. In such cases,
> previous equivalent training requirements in common between the two
> programs need not be repeated and credit for similar training will be
> indicated in the construction qualification journal.
>
> Individuals who have previously qualified as an inspector under MC1245
> or MC1246 may also qualify as a construction inspector. Completion of
> the six (6) ISAs and five (5) course requirements identified in the
> signature sheet shown in Appendix 4 will constitute completion of the
> construction inspector qualification requirements for those
> individuals who are already qualified inspectors. A fully qualified
> inspector is not required to complete a construction inspector
> qualification board. Completion of the following course requirements
> will be certified by the individual=s division director:

05.03 [Final Qualification Activity]{.underline}

1\. [Inspector Qualification Board.]{.underline} The inspector
qualification board is used to evaluate how well an individual can
integrate and apply inspector competencies to field situations. Upon
completion of all requirements identified in the Inspector Qualification
Journals, an inspector qualification board will be conducted to confirm
the individual has the necessary knowledge, skills and attitudes to
independently conduct and document the prescribed NRC inspections. The
list of knowledge, skills and attitudes to be assessed by the board is
contained in Attachment 2, AInspector Competencies.@

> a\. [Members]{.underline}. A qualification board will consist of at
> least three members. The board should contain a cross-section of
> knowledgeable staff ranging from a peer-level inspector to a division
> director. Each board will contain a manager of at least the branch
> chief level. The board chairman shall be at the branch chief level as
> a minimum but cannot be the individual=s immediate supervisor.
> Whenever practical, the immediate supervisor of the individual seeking
> qualification should observe the board if the supervisor is not a
> member of the board.
>
> b\. [Board Conduct]{.underline}.
>
> \(1\) The board chairman should assign topics for questioning to each
> of the board members to ensure that the questioning will address all
> of the KSAs to be verified by the board. Board members are encouraged
> to have a planning meeting to discuss how various questions or
> scenarios will ensure the various KSAs will be covered.
>
> \(2\) Specific questions can be selected from those used in previous
> qualification boards or new questions can be written. Each question
> must relate to at least one of the KSAs to be verified by the board.
> Questions should allow and encourage the individual to provide answers
> that demonstrate a knowledge of NRC policy and philosophy, as they
> relate to the licensee and in particular to the implementation of the
> construction inspection program and inspector self-management.
>
> \(3\) Technical questions should be limited in number, pertain to the
> technical area in which qualification is being sought, and should not
> be the primary focus of the board=s assessment. Technically based
> scenarios and examples can be used to determine how well an individual
> can translate their technical knowledge into appropriate inspector
> actions. However, lengthy questioning merely to determine if an
> individual can recall specific technical facts should not be used.
>
> \(4\) The board should typically require about 2 hours to complete its
> assessment but the time may vary based on the individual board and the
> candidate.

2.  [Board Recommendations]{.underline}. The board will document the
    results of their assessment in writing to the regional administrator
    or office director each time a board examines an individual.

> \(a\) If the board=s assessment is favorable, the recommendation will
> be to grant Full Inspector Qualification. Any areas where additional
> review was required (look-up items) must be completed by the
> individual and verified by an assigned member of the board before
> forwarding the recommendation to the regional administrator or office
> director.
>
> \(b\) If the board has identified areas of weakness requiring formal
> remediation, the board will identify the areas for improvement in
> writing and recommend that the individual appear before a board for
> reexamination when the remediation activities are complete. The board
> and the individual=s supervisor will agree on a schedule for
> reexamination.
>
> \(c\) If the board has identified performance deficiencies that could
> not be successfully addressed with a remediation effort, the board
> will document the full scope of the deficiencies and recommend that
> the individual not be remediated or reexamined.
>
> \(d\) A copy of each board=s results, identifying any weaknesses and
> deficiencies, and the inspector classification but not the
> individual=s name, will be sent to the Chief, Inspection Program
> Branch, for use in routine inspector training program effectiveness
> evaluations.
>
> \(e\) The employee will receive a copy of the board=s findings and
> recommendation.

3.  [Re-examination Board]{.underline}. A reexamination board must
    include at least one individual from the original board. The board
    questioning during reexamination will focus on the areas of
    identified weakness. The board may explore any area where weakness
    is identified during the conduct of the reexamination.

4.  [Board Documentation]{.underline}. The Board=s recommendations are
    forwarded to the regional administrator or office director for
    certification. Upon certification, the qualification will be
    documented in the inspector\'s personnel file at the regional
    personnel office or the OP service center and will identify the
    effective date of the certification.

05.04 [Maintaining Qualification]{.underline}. All qualified staff are
expected to maintain their qualification by completing all required
refresher training and continuing training as required by the program
office. Qualified construction inspectors are NOT expected to complete
the [technical]{.underline} refresher training, however, qualified staff
are expected to complete other refresher training as determined by the
program office. The requalification cycle will be a full 36-month
period. Inspectors may complete the required training at any time during
that period, up until the end of the calender year in which the training
is required. For example, if the initial qualification/refresher was
completed in 2007, the refresher training needs to be completed by the
end of 2010. In some cases, there may be more than three years between
subsequent refresher courses, but normal supervisory oversight and the
existing requirement for supervisors to observe inspectors in the field
would identify any instances when immediate refresher training may be
needed. Approval to extend an inspector=s refresher training beyond the
established calender year due date must be approved as a deviation in
accordance with 05.07, Deviations.

05.05 [Other Administrative Requirements]{.underline}

> a\. [Formal Training Requirements and Expectations]{.underline}.

1.  Trainees are expected to attend all parts of a formal training
    program in order to receive credit for the course.

2.  Written examinations are administered for designated formal courses
    to evaluate the employee\'s understanding of the material. The
    passing grade for most examinations is 70 percent.

3.  Individuals who fail examinations will be given the opportunity to
    review the material that they did not pass through self-study and
    then be reexamined on that material. If deemed necessary,
    individuals who fail an entire course may also repeat the course
    with the approval of the division director.

4.  In courses where a formal examination is not given, satisfactory
    course completion is determined by attendance and completion of
    class activities.

5.  In all cases, completion of formal training courses will be
    documented by the Office of Human Resources. The individual is
    responsible for making sure that the course completion record is
    noted on the signature cards in the Qualification Journals.

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b.  [Technical Experts.]{.underline} Technical experts who have never
    been qualified as an inspector may be used to support inspection
    activities but must work under the guidance of a fully qualified
    inspector.

05.07 [Deviations.]{.underline} The qualification journals listed in
this manual chapter specify the total requirements for an individual to
be qualified. Only the program office can authorize deviations from the
requirements in this manual chapter. Deviations are needed to take
courses out of sequence or to extend the refresher training past the due
date. The Construction Inspector Training and Qualification Program has
been sequenced to optimize learning by ensuring that trainees have
completed basic courses before beginning more complex ones. Therefore,
requests for deviations to take courses out of sequence must identify
how the individual will be able to obtain full benefit of a course
without having completed the prerequisites. Requests for extending the
date for completing refresher training must identify the reasons why the
required training can not be completed on schedule.

Deviation requests can be submitted by the branch chief of the
qualifying individual to the Chief, Construction Inspection and
Allegations Branch. Requests can be made via email or memorandum.

1252-06 POST-QUALIFICATION TRAINING

An inspector\'s training does not end upon being certified as a Fully
Qualified Inspector.

06.01 [Refresher Training]{.underline}. All inspectors are required to
complete required refresher training to maintain the overall level of
inspector performance.

a.  Qualified construction inspectors are NOT expected to complete the
    [technical]{.underline} refresher training. While the New Reactor
    Technology course for only one design is required for qualification,
    additional reactor technology courses for other designs may be taken
    for enhancement, but are not required as part of refresher training.

b.  Qualified staff are expected to complete [other]{.underline}
    refresher training as determined by the program office. This
    training will address areas where overall program implementation has
    been identified as needing improvement.

06.02 [Continuing Training]{.underline}. Staff are expected to build on
what was learned in initial training as well as to keep up-to-date on
changes to the inspection program.

j.  Changes to inspector procedures (IPs), Inspection Manual Chapters
    (IMCs), or other aspects of the inspection program may necessitate
    training. The need for continuing training will be evaluated by the
    Construction Inspection and Allegations Branch whenever the
    inspection program is modified. Any training requirements must be
    completed by all qualified inspectors who are expected to implement
    the changed inspection procedure.

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c.  The Construction Inspection and Allegations Branch will evaluate
    lessons learned from industry events and agency activities to
    determine the need for staff training.

1252-07 MONITORING PROGRAM EFFECTIVENESS

The implementation of the construction inspection program will be
monitored by the program office to identify any areas where performance
may be declining. Staff may use the (Feedback Process) to provide
comments and recommendations on the content and effectiveness of the
inspector qualification program outlined in this manual chapter.
Qualification board documentation, feedback forms, and changes to the
current inspection policy and procedures will be reviewed at least
annually by the Construction Inspection and Allegations Branch for
possible impacts to the inspector training and qualification program
outlined in this manual chapter.

1252-08 PROGRAM REVISIONS

This manual chapter is periodically revised to reflect new training
needs of staff as determined by changes to current policy or changes to
procedures, or both. An individual who is qualified prior to the time
any revisions are made to this inspection manual chapter, will continue
in that status. However, applicability of new requirements and the
method of training on the revision for previously qualified staff will
be determined by the program office.

Those individuals previously qualified to perform limited scope
activities will continue in that status. However, new requirements must
be met in order to achieve Full Inspector Qualification.

Staff in the process of qualifying when a new revision is issued will
transition to and complete their qualification under the new program.
Individuals will be given credit in the new program for training
activities completed in the old program based on Section 1252‑05.02,
Alternate Methods of Meeting a Program Requirement, of this manual
chapter.

Major program revisions will be issued with specific guidance on how
training and work completed under the old program should be applied
within the new program. Qualification records converted in accordance
with this guidance will not require additional approvals.

END

[Attachments:]{.underline}

Attachment 1: General Overview of the Inspector Training and
Qualification Program

Attachment 2: Inspector Competencies

Attachment 3: General Orientation Topics

Attachment 4: Construction Inspector Qualification Certification for

Inspectors Previously Qualified Under MC1245 or MC1246

[Appendices:]{.underline}

Appendix A, Construction Inspector Basic-Level Training and
Certification

Appendix B, Construction Inspector General Proficiency-Level Training

Appendix C, Construction Inspector Technical Proficiency-Level Training

Revision History Sheet

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| Comm   | I    | Description of Change     | Trai | T       | C      |
| itment | ssue |                           | ning | raining | omment |
| Tr     | Date |                           | Ne   | Com     | Reso   |
| acking |      |                           | eded | pletion | lution |
| Number |      |                           |      | Date    | Acc    |
|        |      |                           |      |         | ession |
|        |      |                           |      |         | Number |
+--------+------+---------------------------+------+---------+--------+
|        | 02/0 | Initial Issuance of       | NO   |         |        |
|        | 6/07 | Document                  |      |         |        |
|        |      |                           |      |         |        |
|        | CN   |                           |      |         |        |
|        | 07   |                           |      |         |        |
|        | -005 |                           |      |         |        |
+--------+------+---------------------------+------+---------+--------+
|        |      |                           |      |         |        |
+--------+------+---------------------------+------+---------+--------+
|        |      |                           |      |         |        |
+--------+------+---------------------------+------+---------+--------+
|        |      |                           |      |         |        |
+--------+------+---------------------------+------+---------+--------+
|        |      |                           |      |         |        |
+--------+------+---------------------------+------+---------+--------+
|        |      |                           |      |         |        |
+--------+------+---------------------------+------+---------+--------+

ATTACHMENT 1

General Overview of the Construction Inspector Training and
Qualification Program

The inspector training and qualification program is designed to ensure
the development of competency in the four general areas of 1) legal
basis and regulatory processes, 2) technical expertise, 3) regulatory
practices, and 4) personal and interpersonal effectiveness. A more
detailed listing of competency information is provided in Attachment 2
and is derived from work done for operating reactor inspectors which was
documented in ADAMS accession number ML030030669.

[The Basic-Level Program]{.underline}

The inspector qualification process begins with the Basic-Level part of
the program. This part is designed to allow individuals to begin their
training the first day they begin work at the NRC. The emphasis in the
Basic-Level is mainly on structured, self-paced and self-directed
individual study and on-the-job activities.

Completing the Basic-Level will develop an awareness in each individual
of the role of the Agency, the role of the inspector, and the technology
being regulated. At the Basic-Level, individuals work on activities that
will introduce them to the Regulatory Framework, Fundamental Plant
Design and Construction, Information Technology, Emergency Response,
Communication, and Inspection. In addition, two interpersonal skills
courses have been identified as appropriate for the Basic-Level. If time
permits, these courses may be completed with other Basic-Level
requirements but in all cases must be completed prior to becoming a
fully qualified inspector.

This Aoverview@ approach provides the context for meaningful learning
during on-site work, a foundation for in-depth training in the next
level, and serves as the basis for granting individuals some
independence in performing limited job-related activities while they are
in the qualification process. To that end, upon completion of all of the
requirements in the Basic-Level portion of the Training and
Certification Journal, the individual will be certified by their
immediate supervisor. This Basic Inspector Certification allows an
inspector to perform limited scope inspection activities, as assigned,
under an appropriate degree of detailed supervision. This may mean that
you will be allowed to perform all of some procedures or that you may
perform a small part of several procedures.

The Basic-Level will take several months to complete. As a
competency-based program, the emphasis is on practicing specific
activities until the individual can meet the evaluation criteria. The
time needed to achieve that goal will vary based on each person=s
previous experience and prior training. The foundation information
presented in the Basic-Level should be completed before the other
qualification activities are started.

[The Proficiency Level Program]{.underline}

Successful completion of the Basic-Level is a prerequisite to beginning
the Proficiency‑ Level. There are two aspects of inspector performance
that are addressed at the Proficiency-Level, General Proficiency and
Technical Proficiency. General proficiency focuses on developing the
Inspection, Teamwork and Interpersonal Skills needed by an inspector to
function either independently or as part of a team to implement the
inspection and oversight program. General Proficiency courses can be
completed concurrent with the technical proficiency courses as long as
the course prerequisites are met. Technical Proficiency focuses on
developing the appropriate depth of knowledge in one of the seven
specific technical inspection areas. General Proficiency, Technical
Proficiency, and any remaining Personal and Interpersonal Skills
training activities may be completed in parallel.

The Final Qualification Activity is a culminating evaluation activity in
the inspector training and qualification process. The Qualification
Board evaluates the ability of an individual to integrate and apply the
knowledge, skill and attitudes they have learned to field situations.
Training and qualification records for individuals who have successfully
completed the Qualification Board or audited examination will be sent to
the Deputy Regional Administrator for Construction or Office Director
for certification as a qualified inspector. Being certified as a Fully
Qualified allows an inspector to be assigned the full scope of
inspection related activities to be independently performed with routine
oversight and supervision.

The overall sequence of the Inspector Training and Qualification Program
is outlined in a flow chart shown on the next page.

**Inspector Training and Qualification Program
Sequence**![](media/image1.wmf){width="0.18194444444444444in"
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height="0.30972222222222223in"}![](media/image3.wmf){width="0.19930555555555557in"
height="0.32916666666666666in"}![](media/image4.wmf){width="0.1909722222222222in"
height="0.2743055555555556in"}

**ATTACHMENT 2**

**Inspector Competencies**

The training and qualification program detailed in this manual chapter
is designed to ensure that every inspector acquires competency in four
general areas:

**Area 1 Understand the legal basis for and the regulatory processes
used to achieve the NRC=s regulatory objectives by doing the
following:**

-   acquiring a fundamental understanding of the USNRC organizational
    structure and objectives (Regulatory Framework) [^1]

-   understanding the basis for the authority of the agency (Regulatory
    Framework)

-   understanding the processes established to achieve the regulatory
    objectives (Regulatory Framework)

**Area 2 Understand the technology and apply concepts in various
technical areas to allow the NRC to carry out its overall
responsibilities by doing the following:**

-   understanding science and engineering fundamentals in a specific
    field of expertise (Basic Technologies)

-   developing and maintaining an understanding of how basic nuclear
    plant design and construction provide for protection of public
    health and safety (Fundamental Plant Design and Construction)

-   using knowledge of a specific reactor type or within a specialized
    technical area to identify, address, and resolve regulatory issues
    (Technical Area Expertise)

**Area 3 Master the techniques and skills needed to collect, analyze,
and integrate information using a safety focus to develop a supportable
regulatory conclusion by doing the following:**

-   independently gathering information through objective review,
    observation, and open communications (Inspection)

-   determining acceptability of information by comparing to established
    criteria (Inspection)

-   responding to events or conditions involving potential or actual
    adverse safety consequence (Emergency Response)

-   approaching problems objectively, gathering and integrating
    information, and developing a comprehensive understanding before
    reaching a conclusion (Problem Analysis)

-   objectively analyzing and integrating information using a safety
    focus to identify the appropriate regulatory conclusion and
    regulatory response (Assessment and Enforcement)

**Area 4 Have the personal and interpersonal skills to carry out their
assigned regulatory activities either individually or as part of a team
by doing the following:**

-   clearly expressing ideas or thoughts, carefully listening, and
    speaking and writing with appropriate safety focus and context
    (Communication)

-   working collaboratively with others toward common objectives
    (Teamwork)

-   working independently, exercising judgement, and exhibiting
    flexibility in the completion of activities including during
    difficult or challenging situations (Self-Management)

-   using technology to gather, manipulate, and share information
    (Information Technology)

**Inspector Competency Assessment by the Oral Qualification Board**

The Qualification Board will specifically assess how well an inspector
demonstrates an understanding of and appreciation for the NRC\'s
organizational values of integrity, excellence, service, respect,
cooperation, commitment, and openness. To that end, the Oral
Qualification Board will be used to verify that inspectors demonstrate
the following knowledge and attitudes in the listed competency areas:

**Area 1: Legal Basis and Regulatory Processes**

-   Appreciation of federal, state and local interfaces

-   Appreciation and understanding of the rights and concerns of
    stakeholders

-   Appreciation of how legal requirements relate to routine tasks

-   Comprehension of relevant policies and procedures used in carrying
    out specific regulatory tasks

**Area 2: Technical Disciplines**

No knowledge or attitudes identified to be verified by the Qualification
Board

**Area 3: Regulatory Practices**

-   Appreciates the need for sensitivity when following up on
    allegations

-   Recognizes the nature of information and treats that information in
    accordance with the appropriate guidance

-   Factual answers are in keeping with the Agency=s position and views

-   Recognizes and responds with an appropriate sense of urgency to
    incidents as they arise and ensures that others are appropriately
    informed

-   Uses sound judgement in exercising the appropriate level of caution,
    planning and contingency planning

-   Approaches problems objectively, considering all potential outcomes
    on an equal basis

-   Makes appropriate generalizations from data

-   Maintains an awareness of current Agency priorities and
    sensitivities

-   Identifies key issues, understands the consequences, and applies the
    appropriate regulatory framework

-   Proposes supportable enforcement action based on a review of the
    subject

**Area 4: Personal and Interpersonal Effectiveness**

-   All communication reflects an awareness of public concern, the focus
    of local official needs, and media perspectives

-   Uses tact and diplomacy in conveying messages ensuring that the
    listener understands the rationale and logic behind the message

-   Resolves conflict by facilitating discussion and proposing mutually
    beneficial solutions. Seeks advice when appropriate

-   Communicates messages with clarity and impact to widely varied
    forums and provides answers that reflect an awareness of the
    sensitivities and interests of the audience

-   Is not afraid to admit not having the answer and knows where to find
    answer or to get assistance

-   Maintains a commitment to team objectives even when own ideas are
    not supported

-   Shows flexibility in response to change

-   Recognizes limits of authority and uses the authority in a fair and
    equitable manner

-   Exercises diplomacy and discretion during interactions with
    difficult audiences and situations

-   Approaches others in a way that elicits cooperation

**ATTACHMENT 3**

**General Orientation Topics**

The following topics are of general interest to all new employees of the
U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) and do not specifically relate
to the role of an inspector. This attachment provides this list as a
convenience to ensure that each new inspector is familiar with key
topics. This list is not all inclusive. Additional useful information is
available in NRR Office Instruction ADM-503, ANRR New Employee
Orientation and Training Guide.@ The Office of Human Resource may have
additional information. Key topics include the following:

-   employment (Management Directive 10.1)

-   salary, leave, manpower reporting, work hours (Management Directive
    10.4)

> \$ new employee probationary period
>
> \$ non-Senior Executive Service appraisal system (Management Directive
>
> 10.67)
>
> \$ physical examinations and drug screening
>
> \$ telephone use
>
> \$ NRC motor vehicle operator standards (Management Directive 13.5)
>
> \$ library services
>
> \$ mail policy
>
> \$ union membership
>
> \$ word processing services
>
> \$ filing systems, including the Nuclear Documents System (NUDOCS) and
> the
>
> Agencywide Documents Access and Management System (ADAMS)
>
> \$ travel (Management Directive 14.1)
>
> \$ individual development plans
>
> \$ use of Government equipment for personal use
>
> \$ use of Government credit card
>
> \$ employee grievances

**ATTACHMENT 4: Construction Inspector Qualification Requirements**

(for Inspectors Previously Qualified Under MC1245 or MC1246)

**Signature Card and Division Director Certification**

+--------------------------------------------+-----------+------------+
| *Inspector Name:                           | *Employee | *Branch    |
| \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\              | Initials/ | Chief=s    |
| _\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_* | Date*     | Signa      |
|                                            |           | ture/Date* |
+--------------------------------------------+-----------+------------+
| ***Required Individual Study Activities    |           |            |
| (ISAs)***                                  |           |            |
+--------------------------------------------+-----------+------------+
| (ISA-7) Enforcement Program                |           |            |
+--------------------------------------------+-----------+------------+
| (ISA-9) The Construction Inspection        |           |            |
| Program                                    |           |            |
+--------------------------------------------+-----------+------------+
| (ISA-18) Documenting Inspection Findings   |           |            |
+--------------------------------------------+-----------+------------+
| (ISA-20) Overview of 10 CFR Part 50 and 10 |           |            |
| CFR Part 52                                |           |            |
+--------------------------------------------+-----------+------------+
| (ISA-23) Periodic Assessment of            |           |            |
| Construction Inspection Program Results    |           |            |
+--------------------------------------------+-----------+------------+
| (ISA-24) Inspection, Test, Analysis, and   |           |            |
| Acceptance Criteria (ITAAC)                |           |            |
+--------------------------------------------+-----------+------------+
| ***Required Training Courses***            |           |            |
+--------------------------------------------+-----------+------------+
| New Reactor Technology (one design only    |           |            |
| required)                                  |           |            |
+--------------------------------------------+-----------+------------+
| Quality Assurance                          |           |            |
+--------------------------------------------+-----------+------------+
| Licensing Reactors Under 10 CFR 52 (G-110) |           |            |
+--------------------------------------------+-----------+------------+
| Construction Inspection Program Course     |           |            |
+--------------------------------------------+-----------+------------+
| Codes and Standards Inspection Course      |           |            |
|                                            |           |            |
| (completing a course in only one           |           |            |
| discipline is required:                    |           |            |
|                                            |           |            |
| -   Civil/Structural,                      |           |            |
|                                            |           |            |
| -   Mechanical,                            |           |            |
|                                            |           |            |
| -   Electrical and Instrumentation and     |           |            |
|     Control, or                            |           |            |
|                                            |           |            |
| -   Preoperational/Startup Testing)        |           |            |
+--------------------------------------------+-----------+------------+

This signature card and certification must be accompanied by the
appropriate Form 1, Basic Level Equivalency Justification, if
applicable.

[^1]: Specific competency areas are listed in parenthesis following each
    item