Purpose - hdbk10800008

DOE-HDBK-1080-97

1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 Purpose

The purpose of DOE-HDBK-1080-97, Guide to Good Practices For Oral Examinations is to

provide DOE nuclear facilities (and others) with guidance that can be used to incorporate

oral examination techniques and processes into their training programs. The oral

examination in some form is an integral part of any qualification process. The contents of

this handbook can help training organizations more effectively use oral examinations in their

qualification programs. Knowledge of a subject (theory, operational interrelationship, etc.)

is always required for qualification, and oral examinations are an effective method to

determine whether the person understands the job, the task, or the evolution.

1.2 Background

This handbook has been developed on the basis of experience in the nuclear industry and

incorporates information from civilian, military, commercial and DOE nuclear sources. Oral

examinations (e.g., oral checkouts, knowledge requirements in on-the-job training,

knowledge of system operation during facility walkthrough, etc.) are used in qualification

programs throughout not only the Department of Energy, but industry as well. In keeping

with industry practice, DOE 5480.20A, Personnel Selection, Qualification, and Training

Requirements for DOE Nuclear Facilities, incorporated the use of oral examinations of

different types in individual qualification. The different types of oral examinations are

addressed and discussed in this handbook.

1.3 Application

This handbook is intended to provide guidance to DOE facilities relative to using oral

examinations in their training programs. Facilities are encouraged to review existing oral

examination practices against the good practices in this handbook and implement the

desired changes to their procedures or policies. DOE 5480.20A requires that personnel in

the operating organization at DOE nuclear facilities are qualified to perform their jobs safely.

Examinations are an integral part of qualification and oral examinations of one type or