Continuing Training and Development Program

DOE-HDBK-1117-99

4. CONTINUING TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM

4.1 Continuing Training

The frequency of continuing training should be on a biennial cycle and should be based on job

performance. Continuing training in technical and administrative subjects should be provided to

help ensure that maintenance supervisors maintain and improve their job proficiency.

Continuing training should not be a repeat of the initial training program, rather it should build on

job experiences subsequent to the initial training program and build on the knowledge and skills

that the individual gained during initial training. Specific areas that should be part of a

continuing training program include, but are not limited to the following:

Facility and industry operating experience

Conduct of operations

Facility self-assessment

Abnormal and emergency procedures

Changes to applicable facility procedures, codes, and standards

Significant facility systems, components, and equipment changes

Changes to Technical Safety Requirements

Selected topics from the initial training program to correct identified weaknesses and

performance problems

Selected fundamentals with emphasis on seldom-used knowledge and skills necessary

to assure safety

Lessons learned and near-miss events

Topics requested by shift supervisors or management.

Some of these topics may be discussed during discipline-specific continuing training (e.g.,

mechanical maintenance continuing training). Maintenance supervisors strengthen their

technical skills by attending applicable portions of continuing training developed for the

personnel enrolled in discipline-specific training programs (such as mechanical maintenance).

For supervisors of multidiscipline work teams, careful consideration should be given to their

technical training requirements during continuing training to enhance their effectiveness. For

example, a mechanical supervisor may supervise a team of electricians and mechanics

performing maintenance on a motor-operated valve. In this case, it may be appropriate for the

supervisor to attend task-related portions of continuing training with the electricians to broaden

his or her understanding of a less familiar aspect of the task.

Although DOE Order 5480.20A does not specifically require that the topics listed in Section 7.i

of the order be included in a continuing training program, participation in related supervisory and

management development programs is recommended. The specific training that may be

appropriate for each supervisor should be identified on the basis of that individual's needs, and

may be used to improve identified weaknesses or enhance skills. Section 4.2 of this Handbook

provides guidance for the professional development of maintenance supervisors.