NRC INSPECTION MANUAL NMSS/FCSS

MANUAL CHAPTER 1247

QUALIFICATION PROGRAM FOR FUEL FACILITY INSPECTORS IN THE NUCLEAR 

MATERIAL SAFETY AND SAFEGUARDS PROGRAM AREA
Issue Date: 10/28/14 i 1247

Table of Contents

1247-01 PURPOSE .................................................................................................................... 1

1247-02 OBJECTIVES................................................................................................................ 1

1247-03 DEFINITIONS ............................................................................................................... 1

03.01 Basic Inspector Certification............................................................................................ 1

03.02 Basic-Level Training and Qualification ............................................................................ 1

03.03 Category ......................................................................................................................... 1

03.04 Competency.................................................................................................................... 2

03.05 Continuing Training......................................................................................................... 2

03.06 Deviation......................................................................................................................... 2

03.07 Equivalency Examination ................................................................................................ 2

03.08 Equivalent Experience .................................................................................................... 2

03.09 Full Inspector Qualification.............................................................................................. 2

03.10 Study Guide Training (SG).............................................................................................. 2

03.11 Initial Training and Qualification ...................................................................................... 2

03.12 Inspector......................................................................................................................... 2

03.13 Inspector Qualification Board .......................................................................................... 3

03.14 Interim Inspector Qualification......................................................................................... 3

03.15 Licensee ......................................................................................................................... 3

03.16 On-the-job Training (OJT)............................................................................................... 3

03.17 Post-Qualification Training .............................................................................................. 3

03.18 Proficiency-Level Training and Qualification.................................................................... 3

03.19 Qualification Journal ....................................................................................................... 3

03.20 Refresher Training .......................................................................................................... 3

03.21 Specialized and Advanced Training ................................................................................ 4

1247-04 RESPONSIBILITIES AND AUTHORITIES .................................................................... 4

04.01 Associate Director for Training and Development, Office of Human Resources .............. 4

04.02 Director, Office of Nuclear Materials Safety and Safeguards........................................... 4

04.03 Director, Office of Nuclear Security and Incident Response (NSIR) ................................ 4

04.04 Regional Administrator.................................................................................................... 4

04.05 Directors, NMSS, NSIR, and Regional Divisions ............................................................. 4

04.06 Chiefs, NMSS Program Branches................................................................................... 5

04.07 Immediate Supervisor of Qualifying Individuals ............................................................... 5

1247-05 REQUIREMENTS......................................................................................................... 5

05.01 Training and Qualification Requirements......................................................................... 5

05.02 Alternate Methods for Meeting a Program Requirement.................................................. 6

05.03 Final Qualification Activity ............................................................................................... 7

05.04 Maintaining Qualification ................................................................................................. 8

05.05 Special Circumstances.................................................................................................... 8

05.06 Other Administrative Requirements................................................................................. 9

05.07 Deviations ....................................................................................................................... 9

1247-06 POST-QUALIFICATION TRAINING............................................................................ 10

06.01 Refresher Training. Activities........................................................................................ 10

06.02 Continuing Training....................................................................................................... 10

1247-07 MONITORING PROGRAM EFFECTIVENESS ........................................................... 11

1247-08 PROGRAM REVISIONS ............................................................................................ 11
Issue Date: 10/28/14 ii 1247

Attachment 1: General Overview of the Fuel Facility Inspector Training and Qualification 

Program................................................................................................................................Att1-1

Attachment 2: Inspector Competencies................................................................................Att2-1

Attachment 3: Fuel Facility Inspector Qualification Requirements for Inspectors Previously

Qualified Under IMC 1245, IMC 1246, or IMC 1252 ..............................................................Att3-1

Attachment 4: Revision History ............................................................................................Att4-1

Appendix A, Basic-Level Training and Certification Journal

Appendix B, General Proficiency-Level Training and Qualification Journal

Appendix C, Technical Proficiency-Level Training and Qualification Journals

C1, Fuel Facility Operations Inspector Technical Proficiency Training and Qualification 

Journal

C2, Fuel Facility Health Physics Inspector Technical Proficiency Training and Qualification

Journal

C3, Fuel Facility Emergency Preparedness Inspector Technical Proficiency Training and 

Qualification Journal

C4, (Reserved) Fuel Facility Security Inspector Technical Proficiency Qualification Journal

C5, Fuel Facility Material Control and Accounting Technical Proficiency Training and 

Qualification Journal

C6, Fuel Facility Criticality Safety Technical Proficiency Training and Qualification Journal

Appendix D, Advanced and Specialized Training Courses and Qualification Programs

D1, Information Security Inspector Specialized Qualification Program Training and 

Qualification Journal ......................................................................................................................
Issue Date: 10/28/14 1 1247

1247-01 PURPOSE

01.01 To define initial training and qualification requirements for U.S. Nuclear Regulatory 

Commission (NRC) staff performing inspections of fuel facilities, in the Nuclear Material Safety 

and Safeguards (NMSS) program area.

01.02 To define training and qualification requirements for NRC staff that have previously 

qualified as inspectors using Inspection Manual Chapter (IMC) 1245, IMC 1246, or IMC 1252 

and who will be performing fuel facility inspections in the NMSS program area.

01.03 To establish the requirements for completing refresher and continuing training 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.

1247-02 OBJECTIVES

02.01 To define the qualification program for fuel facility operations, health physics, 

emergency preparedness, security, material control and accounting, and criticality safety. 

02.02 To ensure that the NRC staff has the necessary knowledge and skill to successfully 

implement NMSS fuel facility inspection programs.

02.03 To ensure that the inspector training and qualification program remains effective in 

preparing inspectors to implement the inspection program.

1247-03 DEFINITIONS

03.01 Basic Inspector Certification. A certification made by the individual’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.

03.02 Basic-Level Training and Qualification. 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.

03.03 Category. An area or class of activity for which a license may be issued (such as 

medical, academic, irradiators, well logging, etc.).
Issue Date: 10/28/14 2 1247

03.04 Competency. The group of related knowledge, skills and abilities describing the 

characteristics needed to perform successfully as an inspector.

03.05 Continuing Training. 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 conducts 

job related activities.

c. Providing lessons learned from recent industry and agency activities.

03.06 Deviation. The determination by management, based on an assessment of prior 

inspection experience and training, that an individual can perform fuel facility inspections without 

having completed the full formal fuel facility inspector qualification process. 

03.07 Equivalency Examination. An examination administered through the training 

organization or its contractors, in lieu of specific course attendance.

03.08 Equivalent Experience (Previous Experience). Credit for course requirements, Study 

Guide (SG) training, or On-the-job training (OJT) may be granted based on equivalent 

experience or previous training as documented on the appropriate equivalency justification form. 

03.09 Full Inspector Qualification. 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.

03.10 Study Guide Training (SG). A training method that uses personal study activities 

involving review of SG resource information and staff interviews to develop the required jobrelated knowledge and skills.

03.11 Initial Training and Qualification. The complete set of training activities (individualstudy, classroom, and on-the-job training) that covers the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed 

to successfully achieve Full Inspector Qualification.

03.12 Inspector. An individual who conducts on-site activities including individual or team 

inspections, audits, or reviews.
Issue Date: 10/28/14 3 1247

03.13 Inspector Qualification Board. A board, consisting of management and inspection staff, 

established to assess the qualifications of an individual to independently perform the prescribed 

NMSS inspections.

03.14 Interim Inspector Qualification. A certification by the Regional Administrator or Office 

Director, the basis of which is a recommendation by the Inspector Qualification Board. Interim 

Inspector Qualification indicates that the inspector has completed Basic-level and most 

Proficiency-Level inspector training and qualification requirements. Interim Inspector 

Qualification may be granted when some required training courses are not offered, and no 

equivalent courses are available. A limited Interim Qualification can also be granted when 

proficiency has been completed in some but not all of the study guide training related to 

inspection procedures. A determination must be made that the inspector will be able to conduct 

inspections without an adverse impact to inspection quality. Achieving Interim Inspector 

Qualification allows an inspector to be assigned to any and all procedures that the inspector is 

proficient in, up to the full scope of inspection-related activities, to be performed independently 

with routine oversight and supervision. Interim Inspector qualification is granted on a case-bycase basis.

03.15 Licensee. The entity which has been licensed by the NRC to operate a fuel cycle 

facility (a nuclear fuel fabrication or assembly facility, a uranium enrichment plant or a uranium 

conversion plant). “Licensee” shall read as certificate holder, for a facility certified under Title 10 

of the Code of Federal Regulations (10 CFR) Part 70 or 76.

03.16 On-the-job Training (OJT). A training method that uses structured hands-on activities to 

develop the required job-related knowledge and skills.

03.17 Post-Qualification Training. Training received after qualification to supplement or 

enhance the professional development of NRC staff. (See also Refresher Training and 

Continuing Training.)

03.18 Proficiency-Level Training and Qualification. 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.

03.19 Qualification Journal. The Qualification Journal is the document listing the 

requirements for achieving qualification and containing the documentation of successful 

completion of the individual-study requirements, formal classroom instruction, and on-the-job 

training. 

03.20 Refresher Training. Activities designed to maintain the overall level of performance by:

a. Re-addressing some knowledge, skills and abilities (KSAs) presented in initial training, 

particularly those that are related to important tasks that are hard to do and infrequently 

performed.
Issue Date: 10/28/14 4 1247

b. Providing training in areas where individual or program performance has been identified 

as needing improvement.

03.21 Specialized and Advanced Training. 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 ProficiencyLevel 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. (Examples include: heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC), Internal 

Dosimetry, etc.)

1247-04 RESPONSIBILITIES AND AUTHORITIES

04.01 Associate Director for Training and Development, Office of Human Resources (HR). 

Administers and implements the formal training programs for NMSS 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 Nuclear Materials Safety and Safeguards (or designee). Ensures 

that the NMSS staff achieves and maintains qualifications in accordance with the guidelines in 

this manual chapter. Establishes the training qualification requirements for staff that perform 

inspection activities for which NMSS is responsible. Certifies the NMSS headquarters staff who 

qualify under this manual chapter. Approves Deviation Requests.

04.03 Director, Office of Nuclear Security and Incident Response (NSIR) (or designee). 

Ensures that the NSIR staff achieves and maintains qualifications in accordance with the 

guidelines in this manual chapter. Establishes the training qualification requirements contained 

in Appendix C4, Fuel Facility Security Inspector Technical Proficiency Qualification Journal. 

Certifies the NSIR headquarters staff who qualify under this manual chapter. 

04.04 Regional Administrator. 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 the regional staff who qualify 

under this manual chapter.

04.05 Directors, NMSS, NSIR, and Regional Divisions. 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 qualification programs. 
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04.06 Chiefs, NMSS Program Branches. Develop and maintain, in conjunction with the 

Associate Director for Training and Development (ADTD) of HR, the regions, and headquarters 

staff, the Qualification Journals listed in Appendices A through C of this chapter. Evaluate 

proposed changes to the NMSS programs for impacts on training. Periodically review and 

assess the effectiveness of staff in implementing NMSS programs to identify refresher and 

continuing training topics. Assess the inspector training and qualification program effectiveness 

and identifies areas where the program needs to be revised. 

04.07 Immediate Supervisor of Qualifying Individuals. 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. 

1247-05 REQUIREMENTS

Staff implementing NMSS and NSIR programs must understand the facilities, equipment, 

processes, and activities of those programs, as well as the criteria, techniques, and mechanics 

of implementing the programs. The qualification process is intended to provide staff with 

sufficient information to perform program activities that are technically correct and in accordance 

with NRC regulations, policies, and procedures.

a. Attachment 1, “General Overview of the Fuel Facility Inspector Training and 

Qualification Program,” is a complete description of the program for qualifying 

inspectors.

b. Attachment 2, “Inspector Competencies,” lists the competencies which serve as the 

basis for the inspector qualification requirements. 

c. Attachment 3, “Fuel Facility Inspector Qualification Requirements for Inspectors 

Previously Qualified Under IMC 1245, IMC 1246, or IMC 1252” provides the training 

requirements and necessary documentation that will constitute completion of the Fuel 

Facility Inspector qualification for those inspectors previously qualified under IMC 1245 

or IMC 1252. Inspectors previously qualified under IMC 1246 need not re-qualify under 

IMC 1247 unless qualifying for a new specialty inspection category. Equivalent 

experience guidance in Section 03.09 above applies.

05.01 Training and Qualification Requirements. 

Fuel facility inspector training and qualification requirements are described in Appendices A, B,

C, and D of this manual chapter. Staff assigned to perform inspections in NMSS program areas 

must successfully complete all training activities and qualification requirements listed in
Issue Date: 10/28/14 6 1247

Appendix A and Appendix B as well as at least one specialty inspection category listed in 

Appendix C. The inspector must complete all study guides and requirements of the applicable 

qualification program within 24 months. Individuals in the Nuclear Safety Professional 

Development Program (NSPDP) may be granted a 3-month extension by their division directors. 

Justification for the extension must be documented and recorded in the individual’s training 

record. Other specialty inspection categories in Appendix C may be completed with 

concurrence from the immediate supervisor. A qualification board is not required for 

subsequent specialty certifications once the immediate supervisor has verified the inspector’s 

competency. Qualified inspectors (fuel, reactors, security, etc.) may qualify to be an Information 

Security Inspector in accordance with the criteria defied in Appendix D1, Information Security 

Inspector Specialized Qualification Program Training and Qualification Journal.

05.02 Alternate Methods for Meeting a Program Requirement. 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. 

a. Previous Experience. 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. 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 ADTD, HR. 

c. Individuals Qualifying or Qualified in Other Areas. Individuals who are in the process of 

qualifying as an inspector under IMC1245, IMC 1246, or IMC1252 may also qualify as a 

Fuel Facility inspector. In such cases, previous equivalent training requirements that 

are common to the two programs need not be repeated and credit for similar training 

will be indicated in the fuel facility inspector qualification journal. Individuals who have 

previously qualified as an inspector under IMC1245 or IMC1252 may also qualify as a 

fuel facility inspector. Completion of the SGs and course requirements identified in the 

signature sheet shown in Attachment 3 of this IMC, will constitute completion of the fuel 

facility inspector qualification requirements for those individuals who are already 

qualified inspectors. Individuals qualified under IMC1247 or IMC1246 may qualify in a 

different technical proficiency area under IMC1247. In such cases, the inspector must 

complete the required training under the technical proficiency qualification journal. A 

fully qualified inspector is not required to complete an inspector qualification board. 

Completion of the Attachment 3 requirements will be certified by the appropriate NMSS 

or NSIR Branch Chief or the Director, Division of Fuel Facility Inspection, Region II. 

Individuals who have previously qualified under IMC1246 are not required to re-qualify 

under IMC 1247.
Issue Date: 10/28/14 7 1247

05.03 Final Qualification Activity. 

a. Inspector Qualification Board. 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 KSAs to independently conduct the prescribed NRC inspections. The list of 

KSAs to be assessed by the board is contained in Attachment 2, “Inspector 

Competencies.” 

b. Members. A qualification board will consist of at least three members. Each board will 

contain a manager at the branch chief level or above. The board chairman shall be at 

least at the branch chief level but cannot be the individual’s immediate supervisor. 

Although the focus of the qualification board is not on technical issues, at least one 

board member must be knowledgeable or qualified in the technical proficiency area for 

which the individual is seeking qualification. Whenever practical, the immediate 

supervisor of the individual seeking qualification should observe the board, if the 

supervisor is not a member of the board. 

c. Board Conduct.

1. The board members and the board chairman should work together to ensure that 

the tasks and KSAs in attachments 2 and 3 will be covered during the board.

2. Specific questions can be selected from those used in previous qualification 

boards or new questions can be developed. Each question shall 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 knowledge of NRC 

policy and philosophy as they relate to the licensee and in particular to the 

implementation of the fuel facility inspection program and inspector selfmanagement. 

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. An 

individual’s technical competence in specific disciplines is assessed as specified 

by the supervisor or designee (individual’s mentor or senior staff). 

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.

(a) Board Recommendations. 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.
Issue Date: 10/28/14 8 1247

(1) 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.

(2) 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.

(3) 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. 

(4) The employee will receive a copy of the board’s findings and 

recommendation.

(b) Reexamination Board. 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. 

(c) Board Documentation. 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 

Electronic Official Personnel Folder and will identify the effective date of 

the certification.

05.04 Maintaining Qualification. All qualified staff are expected to maintain their qualification. 

Proficiency may be met by performing inspections on a routine basis. If required by a specific 

qualification journal, refresher, continuing, and post qualification training should also be 

completed. Inspectors may complete the required training at any time during the period

specified in the qualification journal. The base month for determining refresher training 

requirements will remain constant, regardless of when the training is completed. Approval to 

extend an inspector’s refresher training beyond the established due date must be approved as a 

deviation in accordance with Subsection 05.07 of this IMC.

05.05 Special Circumstances. Budget reductions, delays in establishing replacement 

contracts, or unavailability of critical instructors might result in the long-term unavailability of 

NRC-controlled courses required for formal 
Issue Date: 10/28/14 9 1247

qualification. In this case, the ADTD, HR, will communicate this to the cognizant division 

directors. This does not remove the need for the qualifying employee to attend the required 

course, or a suitable alternative, if one can be found. It is expected that employee schedules 

will be adjusted as necessary to allow and require the employee to attend the required training 

when it is made available.

Requests for course substitutions or other equivalent training activity shall be submitted by the 

qualifying individual’s immediate supervisor to the cognizant Division Director for approval. 

05.06 Other Administrative Requirements.

a. Formal Training Requirements and Expectations. 

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 sometimes administered for formal courses to evaluate 

the employee’s understanding of the material. The passing grade for most 

examinations is 70 or 80 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 HR. 

The individual is responsible for making sure that the course completion record is 

noted on the signature cards in the Qualification Journals. 

b. Previously Qualified Inspectors. Individuals who were inspector qualified prior to 

issuance of IMC 1247, and whose qualification has lapsed because they did not 

complete required refresher training, can be assigned to independently conduct 

inspection activities if the individual’s branch chief assures that the individual has 

demonstrated understanding of the current inspection program and procedures.

c. Technical Experts. Technical experts who have never been qualified as an inspector 

may be used to support inspection activities, but they must work under the guidance 

and oversight from a fully qualified inspector.

05.07 Deviations. The qualification journals listed in this IMC specify the total requirements 

for an individual to be qualified. Only the cognizant Division Director can authorize deviations 

from the requirements in IMC 1247. The Fuel Facility Inspector Training and Qualification 

Program has been sequenced to optimize learning by ensuring that individuals have completed 

basic courses before beginning more complex ones.
Issue Date: 10/28/14 10 1247

Therefore, every attempt should be made to take courses in the recommended sequence to 

obtain maximum benefit of a course. Deviations are needed to extend the refresher training 

past the due date. Requests for extending the date for completing refresher training must 

identify the reasons why the required training cannot be completed on schedule. Deviation 

requests can be submitted by the immediate supervisor of the qualifying individual to the 

Director of the appropriate program division. Requests can be made via e-mail or 

memorandum.

1247-06 POST-QUALIFICATION TRAINING

An inspector’s training does not end upon being certified as a fully qualified inspector. 

Suggestions for refresher training and continuing training are provided in the specific 

qualification journal in Appendix C of this IMC for each specific inspector classification. 

06.01 Refresher Training. 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 and not performed very often. 

b. Providing training in areas where individual or program performance has been identified 

as needing improvement. 

c. Providing training in inspector specific program areas (Examples include counterpart

conferences). 

06.02 Continuing Training. Qualified inspectors are expected to build on what they have 

learned during initial training as well as to keep up-to-date on changes to the inspection 

program. It may also be used to review lessons learned from recent industry and agency 

activities. More specifically:

a. Temporary instructions (TIs) or Policy and Guidance Directives (P&GDs) that focus on 

a specific area may necessitate staff receiving special training before performing 

inspections. The NMSS or NSIR program area division having lead responsibility for 

preparing the TI will identify these special training requirements, and communicate the 

training needs to the ADTD as necessary. The schedule for preparation of any special 

training should allow enough advance time for the lead NMSS or NSIR division, in 

coordination with the ADTD, to prepare the required training course and implement it, 

before inspection or licensing is performed using the TI.

b. Changes to inspection procedures (IPs), IMCs, or other aspects of the inspection 

program may necessitate training. The need for continuing training will be evaluated by 

the appropriate NMSS or NSIR division whenever the inspection program is modified. 

Any training requirements must be completed by all qualified inspectors who are 

expected to implement any changed inspection procedure.
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c. Novel processes or facilities such as Mixed Oxide or Laser Enrichment specific training.

The appropriate NMSS or NSIR division will evaluate lessons learned from recent industry 

events and agency activities to determine the need for staff training. 

1247-07 MONITORING PROGRAM EFFECTIVENESS

The implementation of the NMSS programs will be monitored by the program office to identify 

any areas where programmatic performance may be declining. Staff may provide feedback via 

comments and recommendations on the content and effectiveness of the inspector qualification 

program outlined in this manual chapter to NMSS Staff. The program office will monitor 

program effectiveness by reviewing training and qualification board result and monitoring 

feedback from regional representatives on the 1247 working group at least annually or through 

the periodic assessment process for overall fuel cycle facility program effectiveness. 

1247-08 PROGRAM REVISIONS

This IMC is periodically revised as necessary 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 IMC will continue to use the IMC that 

they started the qualification process under. 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, any new requirements must be met in order to achieve Full Inspector 

Qualification.

Staff in the process of qualifying when a 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 Subsection 05.02 of this IMC.

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:

Attachment 1, General Overview of the Fuel Facility Inspector Training and Qualification 

Program

Attachment 2, Inspector Competencies 
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Attachment 3, Fuel Facility Inspector Qualification Requirements for Inspectors Previously 

Qualified Under IMC1245, IMC 1246, or IMC1252

Attachment 4, Revision History for IMC 1247

Appendices:

Appendix A, Basic-Level Training and Certification Journal

Appendix B, General Proficiency-Level Training and Qualification Journal

Appendix C, Technical Proficiency-Level Training and Qualification Journals

C1, Fuel Facility Operations Inspector Technical Proficiency Training and Qualification 

Journal

C2, Fuel Facility Health Physics Inspector Technical Proficiency Training and Qualification 

Journal

C3, Fuel Facility Emergency Preparedness Inspector Technical Proficiency Training and 

Qualification Journal

C4, (Reserved) Fuel Facility Security Inspector Technical Proficiency Qualification Journal

C5, Fuel Facility Material Control and Accounting Technical Proficiency Training and 

Qualification Journal

C6, Fuel Facility Criticality Safety Technical Proficiency Training and Qualification Journal

Appendix D, Advanced and Specialized Training Courses and Qualification Programs

D1, Information Security Inspector Specialized Qualification Program Training and 

Qualification Journal
Issue Date: 10/28/14 Att1-1 1247

ATTACHMENT 1

General Overview of the Fuel Facility 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 “Revising Inspection Manual 

1245, Inspector Training and Qualification: Rationale and Methodology for 

Changes”(ML030030669).

Basic-Level Program.

The inspector qualification process begins with the Basic-Level 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 on-the-job activities and structured, self-paced and 

self-directed individual study. 

Completing the Basic-Level program will develop an awareness of the role of the Agency, the 

role of the inspector, and the technology being regulated. Individuals work on activities that will 

introduce them to the Regulatory Framework, Fuel Cycle Processes and Facilities, Information 

Technology, Emergency Response, Communication, and Inspection. In addition, some 

interpersonal skills courses are required for the Basic-Level certification. 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 “overview” 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 the inspector will be allowed to perform all of some procedures or that the 

inspector 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 individual’s previous experience 

and prior training. The foundation information presented in the Basic-Level should be 

completed before the other qualification activities are started. 

Proficiency Level Program.

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 
Issue Date: 10/28/14 Att1-2 1247

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 Personal and Interpersonal Skills training activities may 

be completed in parallel. 

The Final Qualification Activity, the Qualification Board, 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 KSAs they have learned to field situations. Training and 

qualification records for individuals who have successfully completed the Qualification Board will 

be sent to the Regional Administrator or Office Director for certification as a qualified inspector. 

Being certified as Fully Qualified allows an inspector to be assigned the full scope of inspectionrelated activities to be independently performed with routine oversight and supervision.

The overall sequence of the Inspector Training and Qualification Program is outlined in Figure 1

on the next page.
Issue Date: 10/28/14 Att1-3 1247

FIGURE 1

Inspector Training and Qualification Program Sequence For Fuel Facility Inspectors

Basic-Level (Appendix A)

Training Courses

Site Access

OSHA HAZWOPER or iLearn Health & Safety Suite1

Fuel Cycles Processes

Expectations for Inspectors Seminar

Ethics

Allegations

4 MC&A courses (MC&A inspectors only)

Nuclear Criticality Safety self-study

Individual Study Guides

On-the-Job Training Activities

BASIC INSPECTOR CERTIFICATION

 All three segments must be completed

Work can be completed concurrently provided

 all prerequisites have been met

Personal and Interpersonal 

Skills

Training courses:

Can be taken any time during 

qualification:

Effective Communication

Gathering Information

Media Training

General Proficiency

(Appendix B)1

Training Courses:

 Root Cause/Incident Invest.

 Field Techniques and 

 Regulatory Processes

 General HP Practices1

 Uranium Enrichment1

 Hazards Analysis/ISA1

 Intro to Risk Assessment1

Individual Study Guides

On-the-Job Training Activities

 

Technical Proficiency

(Appendix C)

Training Courses

Study Guides

On-the-Job Training Activities

Specific inspector classifications 

per IMC 1247

C1 - Operations

C2 - Health Physics

C3 – Emergency Preparedness

C4 – (Reserved) Security

C5 – Material Control 

And Accounting

C6-Criticality Safety

Final Qualification Activity

FULL INSPECTOR QUALIFICATION

Various Advanced and Specialized Training

Courses and Qualification Programs (App. D)

Required Refresher and Continuing Training

1Not required for Security or MC&A 

Inspectors
Issue Date: 10/28/14 Att2-1 1247

ATTACHMENT 2

Inspector Competencies

The training and qualification program detailed in this IMC is designed to ensure that inspectors

acquire competency in four general areas: 

Area 1: Understand the legal basis and the regulatory processes for achieving the NRC’s 

regulatory objectives by:

 Acquiring a fundamental understanding of the USNRC organizational structure, 

mission, goals, 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:

 Understanding science and engineering fundamentals in a specific field of expertise 

(Basic Technologies)

 Developing and maintaining an understanding of the basic fuel cycle facility processes, 

hazards, and how licensees must provide for protection of public health and safety 

(Technical Area Expertise)

 Using the knowledge of a specific facility 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:

 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) 

 

1

Specific competency areas are listed in parenthesis following each item
Issue Date: 10/28/14 Att2-2 1247

 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 assigned regulatory 

activities either individually or as a member of a team by:

 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 judgment, 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)
Issue Date: 10/28/14 Att2-3 1247

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 abilities 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

 Knowledge or abilities identified to be verified by the Qualification Board

 Technical knowledge may be assessed at discretion of cognizant Branch Chief

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 judgment 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
Issue Date: 10/28/14 Att2-4 1247

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
Issue Date: 10/28/14 Att3-1 1247

ATTACHMENT 3

Fuel Facility Inspector Qualification Requirements

for Inspectors Previously Qualified Under IMC 1245, IMC 1246 or IMC 1252

(Inspectors Previously Qualified Under IMC 1246 Need Not Re-qualify Under IMC 1247 Unless

Qualifying For a New Specialty Inspection Category)

Signature Card and Division Director Certification

Inspector Name: 

___________________________________

Employee 

Initials/ Date

Branch Chief 

or Designee

Signature/Date

Required Individual Study Activities (SGs) 

SG-22 Integrated Safety Analysis Overview

SG-23 Overview of 10 CFR Part 30

SG-24 Overview of 10 CFR Part 40

SG-25 Overview of 10 CFR Part 70

SG-26 Overview of 10 CFR Part 71

SG-27 Overview of 10 CFR Part 73

SG-28 Overview of 10 CFR Part 74

SG-29 Overview of 10 CFR Part 76

SG-31 Licensee-Specific Regulatory Documents and 

Procedures

SG-32 Planning Fuel Facility Inspections

Required Training Courses

F-201 or F-201S, Fuel Cycle Processes

F-101S, Nuclear Criticality Safety2

F-102S, General HP Practices for Fuel Cycle Facilities2

F-204S, Uranium Enrichment Processes

P-404, Hazards Analysis (ISA) 2

MCA-101DC, Intro to Nuclear Materials Control an 

Accountability1
Issue Date: 10/28/14 Att3-2 1247

Inspector Name: 

___________________________________

Employee 

Initials/ Date

Branch Chief 

or Designee

Signature/Date

MCA-104DB, Introduction to Measurement Programs1

MCA-110, Basics of Nuclear Materials Accountability1

MCA- 120, Basics of Nuclear Materials Control1

On-the-Job Training Activities

OJT-1 Facility Familiarization Tour with a Qualified 

Inspector

OJT-2 Licensee Performance Reviews

OJT-3 Inspection Activities

OJT-4 Documenting Inspection Findings

Required Technical Proficiency (Appendix C)

Complete the appropriate technical proficiency Appendix or 

equivalent:

Specific inspector classifications per IMC 1247

C1 – Operations

C2 – Health Physics

C3 – Emergency Preparedness

C4 – (Reserved) Security

C5 – Material Control 

And Accounting

C6 – Criticality Safety

1 Required for MC&A inspectors only

2 Not required for initial qualification of MC&A inspectors
Issue Date: 10/28/14 Att3-3 1247

This signature card and certification must be accompanied by the appropriate Form 1, Basic 

Level Equivalency Justification, if applicable.

Fuel Facility Inspector Qualification

Certification

______________________________________

(Inspector’s Name)

Has previously qualified as an inspector under IMC 1245, IMC 1246, or IMC 1252 

and has successfully completed all of the course requirements to be a 

FUEL FACILITY INSPECTOR

Branch Chief Signature: 

Division Director Signature: 

Date:
Issue Date: 10/28/14 Att4-1 1247

ATTACHMENT 4

Revision History for IMC 1247

Commitment 

Tracking 

Number

Accession 

Number 

Issue Date 

Change Notice 

Description of Change Description of 

Training Required 

and Completion 

Date 

Comment and 

Feedback 

Resolution 

Accession Number

N/A Updated to add qualification program for Nuclear 

Criticality Inspector qual (IMC 1247 App C6) 

N/A 02/18/09

CN 09-006

Researched commitments for 4 years and found 

none.

New inspection manual chapter to replace the

qualification requirements in IMC 1246 for NRC 

fuel facility operations, health physics, 

emergency preparedness, security, material 

control and accounting, and construction 

inspectors.

None ML090370940

N/A ML12257A125

06/11/14

CN 14-012

This document has been revised to reflect 

Changes in IMC 1247 Appendixes and to 

include new Appendix C6 – Criticality Safety has 

been added to IMC 1247.

None ML14084A476

N/A ML14225A560

10/28/14

CN 14-026

Added Appendix D, for INFOSEC Inspector 

qualification and other minor editorial changes.

None ML14225A557