Technical Supervision of Trainees

DOE-HDBK-1114-98

systematic approach to training is essential when developing and implementing training. The line

manager should also know how to evaluate materials by accepted criteria. Understanding training will

allow the line manager to better evaluate existing programs and recommend the development of new

ones.

Initial training programs should provide the basic knowledge and skills needed to perform intended job

functions. Initial training may include a combination of classroom, laboratory, simulator, self-study, and

on-the-job training.

Once personnel have completed initial training and are qualified to perform a task or function

independently, they should receive periodic continuing training on the skills and knowledge required to

maintain and enhance their proficiency in job performance. Continuing training provides current

information in areas such as changes to facility structures, systems, and components; procedures;

regulations; and lessons learned from facility and industry operating experience. A periodic review of

fundamentals and their applicability to facility operations is also an important part of continuing training.

The DOE Guide to Good Practices for Continuing Training provides additional guidance in this area.

Personnel training is more effective and credible when line managers from all levels are actively

involved; from the senior line manager to the first-line supervisor. Line manager involvement in training

may include attendance at scheduled training, participation in the delivery of training material, or review

of attendance at scheduled training. Another method to improve training effectiveness is to have

supervisors receive the same technical and professional training as their workers, in addition to

leadership and supervisory training.

2.3 Technical Supervision of Trainees

Work activities at the facility should be performed by, or under the technical supervision of, personnel

who are qualified to perform the task. In all cases, personnel who supervise trainees performing tasks

should meet the qualification requirements for the task to be completed and should observe the activity

to the extent necessary to verify proper task performance. Technical supervision in this manner allows

intervention by qualified personnel to prevent errors in task performance, as well as providing immediate

feedback on correct performance.

2.4 On-The-Job Training and Evaluation

Line and training organizations should work together to identify the tasks that need to be taught and

tested, in on-the-job training, before an employee works independently. On-the-job training is most

effective when performed under the same conditions that would be experienced during actual task

performance. Line managers should verify that trainees have been trained and have demonstrated

proficiency on a task before being qualified and assigned to perform the task independently. Personnel

qualification should be documented to verify that assigned individuals are qualified. The DOE Guide to

Good Practices for On-The-Job Training provides additional guidance in this area.