Dounreay Simulator Training Facility Attracts Interest

5th September 2006

Personnel from BNG's sites at Chapelcross and Hinkley Point visited the practical training facility at Dounreay recently, to watch a training session for the second year SVQ apprentices taking place in the simulated nuclear plant. Gordon Anderson, John Rogerson and Charles Thomson were on a fact-finding visit to see at first hand how the simulator training is improving the skills of the apprentices.

Davie Alexander, AMICUS senior representative for UKAEA, arranged the visit. He and Jim Swan, UKAEA apprentice manager, accompanied the BNG staff on their visit to the facility. "UKAEA Dounreay is reinforcing the nuclear decommissioning SVQ training given to the engineering apprentices with this high-quality practical training in decommissioning skills" Jim said. "Six apprentices at a time go through six simulation exercises to improve their practical skills in areas such as airline suit working. The youngsters often come up with innovative ideas for working, which we can trial in the training facility to see whether they improve the way we do things."

BNG Chapelcross are considering reviving their apprentice scheme, while Hinckley are about to welcome their first apprentices for ten years. Charles Thomson from Hinkley Point was pleased to have this opportunity to share ideas with UKAEA. "This type of training is the way forward. It is very beneficial for these youngsters not to have to face radiological hazards while they learn these important practical skills."

Bryan Dods, UKAEA safety training officer explained, "The training package has been designed so we can modify or expand it as needed. Our intention is to continue expanding so that we can offer refresher packages of practical training to the rest of the site."