Analysis, Conclusions and Recommendations Concerning Operator Licensing (Generic Letter 81-02)

                                UNITED STATES
                        NUCLEAR REGULATORY COMMISION
                           WASHINGTON, D.C. 20555

                              January 27, 1981

ALL LICENSEES OF OPERATING PLANTS AND HOLDERS OF CONSTRUCTION PERMITS 

Gentleman: 

SUBJECT:  ANALYSIS, CONCLUSIONS, AND RECOMMENDATIONS CONCERNING OPERATOR 
          LICENSING (GENERIC LETTER No. 81-02) 

In a letter dated March 28, 1980,from H. R. Denton we informed you of the 
revised criteria to be used by the staff in evaluating reactor operator 
training and licensing that could be implemented under the current 
regulations. We also advised you that Commission review in the area of 
operator training and qualification was continuing and it could be expected 
to result in additional criteria. 

As part of our continuing review, we issued a contract (NRR-80-117) to 
Analysis & Technology, Inc., to conduct a study of the requirements for 
operator licensing. Analysis & Technology submitted their report to us on 
November 30, 1980 (NUREG/CR-1750). This report provides an independent 
perspective to the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission regarding the 
requirements and practices for control room operator licensing. Analysis, 
conclusions and recommendations are provided in the following areas: 

     o    Selection, traing and certification of control room operators, 
     o    Effectiveness of the NRC operator licensing program, 
     o    Methods to assure continued competence of operators, 
     o    Methods for maintaing ahighly motivated and dedicated operator 
            work force, 
     o    Upgrading of presently licensed operators to meet proposed 
             requirements, 
     o    Training and qualification of non-licensed operating, maintenance 
            and technical support personnel, 
     o    Qualifications of Operator Licensing Branch (OLB) examiners and 
     o    Organization of the OLB. 

Based on our review of this report we intend to develop additional criteria 
for the requirements for operator licensing. 

We would appreciate it if you would review this report and offer any 
comments you believe appropriate to assist us in the development of 
improvements in the operator licensing program. Your respons to this request 
is voluntary. 
.

                                    - 2 -

Comments received after April 30, 1981 will be considered if it is practical
to do so, but assurance of consideration cannot be given except as to 
comments filed on or before April 30, 1981. 

Written comments should be submitted to the Secretary of the Commission, 
U. S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington D.C. 20555, Attention: 
Docketing and Service Branch. 

For further information contact:  P. F. Collins, U. S. Nuclear Regulatory 
Commission, Office of Nuclear Reactor Regulation, Washington, D.C. 20555, 
telephone 301-492-7486. 

The response to this voluntary request should reference this letter by title
and number. 

                              Sincerely, 


                              Darrell G. Eisenhut, Director 
                              Division of Licensing 
                              Office of Nuclear Reactor Regulation 

Enclosure:
NUREG/CR-1750