RE:RCT training

[Robert Augdahl <augie@macconnect.com>]

Shelly wrote:


>(I hope Robert Augdahl's   
>management asked DOE to okay not to test on core academics.  And if they   
>okayed it then I need to get on our management and get it dropped here   
>too!)  I think I have a problem with not testing on the core that just   
>'cause someone passed the NRRPT.  The NRRPT is a once in a lifetime   
>thing--who knows what the RCT who passed the test 20 years ago and hasn't   
>worked rad con since remembers?

Both our Rad Con Manual and our RPP 'encourage' the waiver for NRRPT. I 
also agree with you on the "20 year" analogy. I know of a couple of techs 
on our site you passed the NRRPT some years ago and can't do a simple 
6CEN calculation. However, I don't put too much weight in the DOE Core 
test. The last two times I had to retest I read the book the night 
before. ( not trying to sound mega smart here ), but I put in a good bit 
of study time for the NRRPT.

DOE wants to know if you can memorize key words and ideas from their 
books. NRRPT wants to know if you can actually perform the calculation 
and understand what actions are necessary to provide a safe working 
environment to the people you hope to protect. And they shift the 
emphasis of study each test.

The NRRPT is also adding a continuing education requirement, this should 
help to weed out the '20 year folks'. I've been told that the NRRPT is 
comparable to Part I of the CHP (with some notable differences) I don't 
know because I can't take it. (Don't have that piece of paper that says I 
took the time to 'join the club' and pay my four years of tuition (YET!)).

Maybe because I have passed the exam I take exception to the phrase 
'cause someone passed the NRRPT' but I think it shows a level of 
commitment to both oneself and to one chosen profession.

Thank you for you comments on training at other facilities.
(I hate to end a note on my soap box.)








Bob Augdahl, RRPT
Las Vegas, NV

augie@macconnect.com

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