Providing radiological monitoring services in the nuclear industry to protect people, plant and the environment from radioactive contamination.
This occupation is found in the nuclear sector on a range of sites including waste management, decommissioning, and operational nuclear facilities. Their working conditions are varied and may involve wearing specialist safety equipment, shift working and working on sites and facilities running 365-day operations. They are expected to work independently and as part of a team. They need to be able to work with minimum supervision, in a professional manner, taking responsibility for the quality and accuracy of the work they undertake. People working on nuclear sites are required to undergo security clearance vetting.
The broad purpose of the occupation is to provide radiological monitoring services within the nuclear industry to protect people, plant, and the environment. It is to provide protection from the adverse effects of ionising radiation and contamination. They may work indoors or outdoors, work at height or in confined spaces. They may be required to work shifts and in hazardous areas.
In their daily work, an employee in this occupation interacts with other engineers, technicians and visiting staff present on a nuclear site. They work independently or as part of the larger team. They typically work under both supervised and unsupervised direction of an engineer, technician or health physics supervisor.
An employee in this occupation will comply with regulatory and organisational requirements. They must work within the specified health, safety, and environmental regulations. They must use the appropriate protective clothing, equipment and resources. They are responsible for the correct use and control of equipment. They must follow organisationally defined and approved procedures when carrying out monitoring of nuclear related systems and people. All work must be completed safely and efficiently as directed by supervisory staff.
Health physics surveyor
This is a summary of the key things that you – the apprentice and your employer need to know about your end-point assessment (EPA). You and your employer should read the EPA plan for the full details. It has information on assessment method requirements, roles and responsibilities, and re-sits and re-takes.
An EPA is an assessment at the end of your apprenticeship. It will assess you against the knowledge, skills, and behaviours (KSBs) in the occupational standard. Your training will cover the KSBs. The EPA is your opportunity to show an independent assessor how well you can carry out the occupation you have been trained for.
Your employer will choose an end-point assessment organisation (EPAO) to deliver the EPA. Your employer and training provider should tell you what to expect and how to prepare for your EPA.
The length of the training for this apprenticeship is typically 24 months. The EPA period is typically 3 months.
The overall grades available for this apprenticeship are:
When you pass the EPA, you will be awarded your apprenticeship certificate.
The EPA gateway is when the EPAO checks and confirms that you have met any requirements required before you start the EPA. You will only enter the gateway when your employer says you are ready.
The gateway requirements for your EPA are:
For the nuclear health physics monitor, the qualification required is:
IOSH Working Safely
GQA Certificate in Health Physics Monitoring in the nuclear industry (theory)
Practical assessment with questions
You will be observed by an independent assessor completing a set of tasks. It will last 60 hours. They will ask you at least 3 questions.
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
You will have an interview with an independent assessor. It will last at least 60 minutes. They will ask you at least 6 questions. The questions will be about certain aspects of your occupation. You need to compile a portfolio of evidence before the EPA gateway. You can use it to help answer the questions.
Knowledge test - integrated
You will complete a test requiring short written answers and multi choice answers. The delivery of the knowledge test - integrated must align with the conditions set out by the awarding body for the integrated qualification.
The EPAO will confirm where and when each assessment method will take place.
You should speak to your employer if you have a query that relates to your job.
You should speak to your training provider if you have any questions about your training or EPA before it starts.
You should receive detailed information and support from the EPAO before the EPA starts. You should speak to them if you have any questions about your EPA once it has started.
If you have a disability, a physical or mental health condition or other special considerations, you may be able to have a reasonable adjustment that takes this into account. You should speak to your employer, training provider and EPAO and ask them what support you can get. The EPAO will decide if an adjustment is appropriate.
This apprenticeship aligns with Society for Radiological Protection for Associate
Please contact the professional body for more details.
This occupation is found in the nuclear sector on a range of sites including waste management, decommissioning, and operational nuclear facilities. Their working conditions are varied and may involve wearing specialist safety equipment, shift working and working on sites and facilities running 365-day operations. They are expected to work independently and as part of a team. They need to be able to work with minimum supervision, in a professional manner, taking responsibility for the quality and accuracy of the work they undertake. People working on nuclear sites are required to undergo security clearance vetting.
The broad purpose of the occupation is to provide radiological monitoring services within the nuclear industry to protect people, plant, and the environment. It is to provide protection from the adverse effects of ionising radiation and contamination. They may work indoors or outdoors, work at height or in confined spaces. They may be required to work shifts and in hazardous areas.
In their daily work, an employee in this occupation interacts with other engineers, technicians and visiting staff present on a nuclear site. They work independently or as part of the larger team. They typically work under both supervised and unsupervised direction of an engineer, technician or health physics supervisor.
An employee in this occupation will comply with regulatory and organisational requirements. They must work within the specified health, safety, and environmental regulations. They must use the appropriate protective clothing, equipment and resources. They are responsible for the correct use and control of equipment. They must follow organisationally defined and approved procedures when carrying out monitoring of nuclear related systems and people. All work must be completed safely and efficiently as directed by supervisory staff.
Health physics surveyor
| Duty | KSBs |
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Duty 1 Apply radiological and contamination control measures prior to, during and after commencing work. |
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Duty 2 Monitor surface and airborne contamination and radiation dose rates using radiological instruments. |
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Duty 3 Complete ionising radiation and contamination surveys in compliance with organisational requirements. |
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Duty 4 Undertake monitoring of personnel activities during radiologically implicated tasks and at barriers, entry and exit areas. |
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Duty 5 Carry out radiological barrier integrity checks. |
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Duty 6 Perform checks and testing of monitors and detectors against radioactive sealed sources. |
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Duty 7 Monitor waste, used personal protective equipment (PPE) and equipment leaving the site. Ensure compliance to conditions for acceptance at receiving sites. |
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Duty 8 Document radiation and contamination monitoring survey results. Use written reports and digital systems as required. |
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Duty 9 Support decontamination of personnel in the event of becoming contaminated. For example, emergency showers. |
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Duty 10 Ensure radioactive sources and materials are accounted for in line with local arrangements and location. |
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Duty 11 Monitor radiation and contamination levels during radiation incidents and events. |
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Duty 12 Support facility and site contingency plans including emergency arrangements for protection of personnel, plant and the environment. |
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Duty 13 Produce radiological protection monitoring information. |
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Duty 14 Provide information of radiological hazards and risks in routine and incident situations. For example, appropriate guidance to personnel involved in incidents or events. |
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Duty 15 Direct colleagues on appropriate actions relating to radiation protection. |
K1: Awareness of nuclear safety: prevention of accidents, protection of people and the environment from radiation exposure and hazards.
Back to Duty
K2: Awareness of radiological safety: protection of people and the environment from the harmful effects of ionising radiation and contamination.
Back to Duty
K3: Safety expectations of those working on nuclear licensed sites: Confined spaces, Health and safety at work act. Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH). Manual handling. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Respiratory Protection Equipment (RPE). Situational awareness. Slips, trips and falls. Safety equipment: guards, signage, fire extinguishers. Safe systems of working. Working at height.
Back to Duty
K4: Security clearances and levels of personnel on nuclear licensed sites: basic clearance (BC), security clearance (SC) and developed vetting (DV) enhanced clearance.
Back to Duty
K5: Awareness of safety management systems: risk assessments. Principles of As Low As Reasonably Practicable (ALARP). Best Available Technique (BAT).
Back to Duty
K6: Standard operating procedures (SOPs): what they are and why they are important.
Back to Duty
K7: Environment and sustainability regulations and guidance. Types of pollution and control measures in the nuclear sector, including spills and waste. Waste reduction and waste streams. Recycling and reuse. Sustainable use of equipment and materials.
Back to Duty
K8: Awareness of how human performance and human factors affect nuclear safety culture.
Back to Duty
K9: Awareness of radiation types: non-ionising and ionising radiation, alpha, beta, gamma, x-ray and neutron. Atomic structure, criticality, fusion and fission.
Back to Duty
K10: Types of radiation sources and materials.
Back to Duty
K11: Control measures for radiation sources, materials and hazards.
Back to Duty
K12: Identification and purpose of radiological monitoring instruments including personal monitoring equipment (electronic and non-electronic): measurement and referencing levels of ionising radiation detection and exposure.
Back to Duty
K13: Testing of radiological monitoring instruments using calibrated and sealed radiation sources.
Back to Duty
K14: Numerical calculation techniques for radiological data and SI units.
Back to Duty
K15: Emergency response radiological incident contingency plans: emergency environmental radiological releases, critical incident monitoring, forward control points (FCP) and access control points (ACP), supervised and designated areas.
Back to Duty
K16: Regulatory and legislative guidance: Nuclear Installations Act (NIA), Ionising Radiation Regulations (IRR), Radiation (Emergency Preparedness and Public Information) Regulations (REPPIR), International Commission of Radiological Protection (ICRP), Approved Code of Practice (ACOP).
Back to Duty
K17: Principles of team working.
Back to Duty
K18: Documentation and reporting requirements.
Back to Duty
K19: Verbal communication techniques. Giving and receiving information. Matching style to audience. Nuclear industry terminology.
Back to Duty
K20: Written communication techniques.
Back to Duty
K21: Information technology and digital systems: email, management information systems, word processing, work sharing platforms. General data protection regulation (GDPR). Cyber security.
Back to Duty
K22: Principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace and the impact on their work.
Back to Duty
S1: Comply with health and safety regulations and procedures. Challenge unsafe practices.
Back to Duty
S2: Follow work instructions. For example, risk assessments.
Back to Duty
S3: Follow standard operating procedures (SOPs).
Back to Duty
S4: Respond to changes in radiological conditions using safety management systems. For example,
As Low As Reasonably Practicable principles (ALARP).
Back to Duty
S5: Comply with environmental and sustainability regulations and procedures. For example, identify and segregate resources for reuse, recycling and disposal.
Back to Duty
S6: Apply human performance and human factors nuclear culture.
Back to Duty
S7: Identification of radiation sources and materials.
Back to Duty
S8: Apply control measures taken with radiation sources and materials.
Back to Duty
S9: Select and use radiological protection monitoring instruments: for example, smear paper, hand-held radiation and contamination rate meters, installed and portable air samplers.
Back to Duty
S10: Carry out functional tests of radiation protection monitoring instrumentation using calibrated radioactive sealed sources.
Back to Duty
S11: Perform numerical calculations for radiological measurements with SI units.
Back to Duty
S12: Comply with emergency response plans: carry out critical incident monitoring, use forward control points (FCP) and access control points (ACP) to respond and recover from nuclear incidents.
Back to Duty
S13: Comply with legislative regulations and guidance: Ionising Radiation Regulations (IRR), Radiation (Emergency Preparedness and Public Information) Regulations (REPPIR).
Back to Duty
S14: Record radiation protection monitoring and survey results using required documentation.
Back to Duty
S15: Apply team working principles.
Back to Duty
S16: Communicate verbally with colleagues and managers using industry terminology.
Back to Duty
S17: Communicate in writing with colleagues and managers.
Back to Duty
S18: Use information technology and digital systems. Comply with GDPR and cyber security.
Back to Duty
S19: Carry out and record learning and development activities.
Back to Duty
S20: Follow equity, diversity and inclusion rules.
Back to Duty
B1: Put health and safety first.
Back to Duty
B2: Take ownership of own work and responsibilities.
Back to Duty
B3: Take responsibility for the quality of work.
Back to Duty
B4: Respond and adapt to changing work requests.
Back to Duty
B5: Demonstrate team focus to meet work goals.
Back to Duty
B6: Consider human performance and human factors principles in the workplace.
Back to Duty
B7: Seek learning and development opportunities, continual professional development (CPD).
Back to Duty
B8: Support an inclusive workplace, being respectful of different views.
Back to Duty
English and maths qualifications form a mandatory part of all apprenticeships and must be completed before an apprentice can pass through gateway. The requirements are detailed in the current version of the apprenticeship funding rules.
Level: 2
The IOSH Working Safely qualification will be undertaken early in the apprenticeship to give a standard introduction to underpinning knowledge of health and safety throughout the apprenticeship and beyond. It is a 5 guided learning hours (GLH) qualification.
Level: 2
This standard aligns with the following professional recognition:
1.1
This document explains the requirements for end-point assessment (EPA) for the nuclear health physics monitor apprenticeship. This apprenticeship has an integrated qualification which means both the qualification and apprenticeship need to be completed, passed and awarded during the same period.
The awarding body (AB) is accountable for the integrated assessment method. The end-point assessment organisation (EPAO) must take responsibility for all other assessment methods in the EPA. EPAOs and ABs must work collaboratively to manage the delivery of the EPA.
Nuclear health physics monitor apprentices, their employers and training providers should read this document.
A full-time nuclear health physics monitor apprentice typically spends 24 months on-programme. The apprentice must spend at least 12 months on-programme and complete the required amount of off-the-job training in line with the apprenticeship funding rules.
The EPA should be completed within an EPA period lasting typically 3 months.
The apprentice must complete their training and meet the gateway requirements before starting their EPA. The EPA will assess occupational competence.
An approved EPAO must conduct the EPA for this apprenticeship. Employers must select an approved EPAO from the apprenticeship provider and assessment register (APAR). The integrated assessment method must be delivered by the qualification's awarding body.
Occupational competence is outlined by the EPA grade descriptors. The integrated assessment method must be marked by the awarding body, The EPA outcome is determined by the EPAO. The EPAO must combine the outcomes of integrated and non-integrated assessment methods to determine the apprentice’s overall grade.
This EPA has 3 assessment methods.
The grades available for each assessment method are below.
Assessment method 1 - practical assessment with questions:
Assessment method 2 - interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence:
Assessment method 3 - knowledge test - integrated:
The result from each assessment method is combined to decide the overall apprenticeship grade. The following grades are available for the apprenticeship:
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On-programme - typically 24 months
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The apprentice must:
The qualifications required are: IOSH Working Safely GQA Certificate in Health Physics Monitoring in the nuclear industry (theory)
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End-point assessment gateway
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The apprentice’s employer must be content that the apprentice is occupationally competent. The apprentice must:
For the interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence, the apprentice must submit a portfolio of evidence.
Gateway evidence must be submitted to the EPAO along with any organisation specific policies and procedures requested by the EPAO. |
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End-point assessment - typically 3 months
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The grades available for each assessment method are below
Practical assessment with questions:
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence:
Knowledge test - integrated:
Overall EPA and apprenticeship can be graded:
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Professional recognition
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This apprenticeship aligns with:
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The EPA is taken in the EPA period. The EPA period starts when the EPAO confirms the gateway requirements have been met and is typically 3 months.
The EPAO should confirm the gateway requirements have been met and start the EPA as quickly as possible.
The apprentice’s employer must be content that the apprentice is occupationally competent. That is, they are deemed to be working at or above the level set out in the apprenticeship standard and ready to undertake the EPA. The employer may take advice from the apprentice's training provider, but the employer must make the decision. The apprentice will then enter the gateway.
The apprentice must meet the gateway requirements before starting their EPA.
They must:
Portfolio of evidence requirements:
The apprentice must compile a portfolio of evidence during the on-programme period of the apprenticeship. It should only contain evidence related to the KSBs that will be assessed by this assessment method. It will typically contain at least 8 discrete pieces of evidence. Evidence must be mapped against the KSBs. Evidence may be used to demonstrate more than one KSB; a qualitative as opposed to quantitative approach is suggested.
Evidence sources may include:
This is not a definitive list; other evidence sources can be included.
The portfolio of evidence should not include reflective accounts or any methods of self-assessment. Any employer contributions should focus on direct observation of performance (for example, witness statements) rather than opinions. The evidence provided should be valid and attributable to the apprentice; the portfolio of evidence should contain a statement from the employer and apprentice confirming this.
The EPAO should not assess the portfolio of evidence directly as it underpins the interview. The independent assessor should review the portfolio of evidence to prepare questions for the interview. They are not required to provide feedback after this review.
The apprentice must submit the gateway evidence to their EPAO, including any organisation specific policies and procedures requested by the EPAO.
The assessment methods must be delivered in the following order:
The integrated assessment method must be delivered after non-integrated assessment methods have been attempted.
In a practical assessment with questions, an independent assessor observes the apprentice completing a task or series of tasks set by the EPAO. The EPAO decides where it takes place. The assessment environment must closely relate to the apprentice’s natural working environment. It gives the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method.
This assessment method is being used because:
The practical assessment with questions must be structured to give the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method to the highest available grade.
An independent assessor must conduct and assess the practical assessment with questions.
The independent assessor must only observe one apprentice at a time to ensure quality and rigour. They must be as unobtrusive as possible.
The EPAO must give an apprentice 2 weeks' notice of the . practical assessment with questions
The practical assessment with questions must take 60 minutes.
The independent assessor can increase the time of the practical assessment with questions by up to 10%. This time is to allow the apprentice to complete a task or respond to a question if necessary.
The practical assessment with questions cannot be split, other than for comfort breaks or to allow apprentices to move from one location to another. Where breaks occur, they will not count towards the total EPA time.
The EPAO must manage invigilation of the apprentice during the assessment, to maintain security of the EPA, in line with their malpractice policy. This includes breaks and moving between locations.
The independent assessor must explain to the apprentice the format and timescales of the practical assessment with questions before it starts. This does not count towards the assessment time.
The independent assessor must observe the following during the practical assessment:
The additional person will be a role player. They will play the role of plant personnel and are to follow the instructions given by the independent end-point assessor. They will be required to act as plant personnel, required to undergo radiological monitoring. This monitoring will be carried out by the apprentice as part of the practical task. They will also be required to act as plant personnel to receive information and direction on matters relating to radiological hazards and risks. They will follow instructions from the apprentice relating to radiation protection.
These activities provide the apprentice with the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method.
The independent assessor must ask questions. The purpose of the questioning is to explore aspects of the identified KSBs not demonstrated in the practical assessment.
Questioning must occur during the practical assessment. The time for questioning is included in the overall assessment time.
The independent assessor must ask at least 3 questions during the practical assessment. To remain as unobtrusive as possible, the independent assessor should ask questions during natural breaks in work rather than disrupting the apprentice’s flow. The independent assessor must use the questions from their EPAO’s question bank or create their own questions in line with the EPAO’s training.
The independent assessor can ask follow-up questions to clarify answers given by the apprentice. These questions are in addition to the above set number of questions for the practical assessment with questions.
The independent assessor must make the grading decision. The independent assessor must assess the practical assessment and responses to questions holistically when deciding the grade.
The independent assessor must keep accurate records of the assessment. They must record:
The practical assessment with questions must take place in a simulated environment selected by the EPAO for example, the EPAO’s or employer’s premises. The simulated environment must relate to the apprentice’s natural work environment. Equipment and resources needed for the practical assessment with questions must be provided by the EPAO, who can liaise with the employer to provide these.
The EPAO must develop a purpose-built assessment specification and question bank. It is recommended this is done in consultation with employers of this occupation. The EPAO must maintain the security and confidentiality of EPA materials when consulting with employers. The assessment specification and question bank must be reviewed at least once a year to ensure they remain fit-for-purpose.
The assessment specification must be relevant to the occupation and demonstrate how to assess the KSBs mapped to this assessment method. The EPAO must ensure that questions are refined and developed to a high standard. The questions must be unpredictable. A question bank of sufficient size will support this.
The EPAO must ensure that the apprentice has a different set of tasks and questions in the case of re-sits and retakes, to minimise predictability.
The EPAO must produce the following materials to support the practical assessment with questions:
The EPAO must ensure that the EPA materials are subject to quality assurance procedures including standardisation and moderation.
In the interview, an independent assessor asks the apprentice questions. It gives the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method.
The apprentice can refer to and illustrate their answers with evidence from their portfolio of evidence.
This assessment method is being used because it:
The interview must be structured to give the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method to the highest available grade.
An independent assessor must conduct and assess the interview.
The purpose is to assess the apprentice’s competence against the following themes:
The EPAO must give an apprentice 2 weeks' notice of the interview.
The independent assessor must have at least 2 weeks to review the supporting documentation.
The apprentice must have access to their portfolio of evidence during the interview.
The apprentice can refer to and illustrate their answers with evidence from their portfolio of evidence however, the portfolio of evidence is not directly assessed.
The interview must last for 60 minutes. The independent assessor can increase the time of the interview by up to 10%. This time is to allow the apprentice to respond to a question if necessary.
The independent assessor must ask at least 6 questions. The independent assessor must use the questions from the EPAO’s question bank.
The independent assessor must make the grading decision.
The independent assessor must keep accurate records of the assessment. They must record:
The interview must take place in a suitable venue selected by the EPAO for example, the EPAO’s or employer’s premises.
The interview can be conducted by video conferencing. The EPAO must have processes in place to verify the identity of the apprentice and ensure the apprentice is not being aided.
The interview should take place in a quiet room, free from distractions and influence.
The EPAO must develop a purpose-built assessment specification and question bank. It is recommended this is done in consultation with employers of this occupation. The EPAO should maintain the security and confidentiality of EPA materials when consulting with employers. The assessment specification and question bank must be reviewed at least once a year to ensure they remain fit-for-purpose.
The assessment specification must be relevant to the occupation and demonstrate how to assess the KSBs mapped to this assessment method. The EPAO must ensure that questions are refined and developed to a high standard. The questions must be unpredictable. A question bank of sufficient size will support this.
The EPAO must ensure that the apprentice has a different set of questions in the case of re-sits or re-takes.
The EPAO must produce the following materials to support the interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence:
The EPAO must ensure that the EPA materials are subject to quality assurance procedures including standardisation and moderation.
This is an integrated assessment method. The integrated assessment method forms part of the apprenticeship's EPA as well as the awarding of the qualification. The integrated qualification is the Certificate in Health Physics Monitoring in the nuclear industry (theory).
The KSBs aligned to the integrated assessment method will be assessed and graded by the awarding body and contribute to the overall outcome of the apprenticeship and the qualification.
In the knowledge test - integrated, the apprentice answers questions in a controlled and invigilated environment. It gives the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the knowledge and skill mapped to this assessment method.
This assessment method is being used because it:
The delivery of the knowledge test - integrated must align with the conditions set out by the awarding body for the integrated qualification.
The test can be computer or paper based.
The apprentice must be given at least 2 weeks’ notice of the date and time of the test.
The test must be taken in the presence of an invigilator who is the responsibility of the AB. The AB must have an invigilation policy setting out how the test must be conducted. It must state the ratio of apprentices to invigilators for the setting and allow the test to take place in a secure way.
The AB is responsible for the security of the test including the arrangements for on-line testing. The AB must ensure their security arrangements maintain the validity and reliability of the test.
The AB must verify the apprentice’s identity and ensure invigilation of the apprentice for example, with 360-degree cameras and screen sharing facilities if the test is taken remotely.
The responsibility for the marking of the test is with the AB. They must produce a marking scheme to be followed. Marking by computer is allowed where question types support this.
The AB is responsible for overseeing the marking, standardisation and moderation of the test.
The apprentice must take the test in a suitably controlled and invigilated environment that is a quiet room, free from distractions and influence. The AB must check the venue is suitable.
The test could take place remotely if the appropriate technology and systems are in place to prevent malpractice.
The AB must develop a purpose-built assessment specification and question bank. It is recommended this is done in consultation with employers or subject matter experts for this occupation. The AB must maintain the security and confidentiality of test materials when consulting with employers. The assessment specification and question bank must be reviewed to ensure they remain fit-for-purpose.
The assessment specification must be relevant to the occupation and demonstrate how to assess the KSBs mapped to this assessment method. The AB must ensure that questions are refined and developed to a high standard. The questions must be unpredictable. A question bank of sufficient size will support this.
The AB must ensure that apprentice has a different set of questions in the case of re-sits or re-takes.
The AB must produce the following materials to support the test:
The AB must ensure that the materials are subject to quality assurance procedures including standardisation and moderation.
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Theme
KSBs
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Pass
Apprentices must demonstrate all of the pass descriptors
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Health and safety
K5 S1 S4 B1 B2 B4 |
Demonstrates compliance and a commitment to health and safety for themselves and others. Challenges unsafe practices. (S1, B1) Demonstrates use of safety management systems and taking responsibility, in response to changes in radiological conditions in line with organisational procedures. (K5, S4, B2, B4) |
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Follow work instructions
S2 |
Follows work instructions in line with task requirements, organisational guidance and legal and regulatory requirements. (S2) |
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Verbal communications
K19 S16 |
Uses verbal communication techniques suitable for the context, adapting style and use of terminology to suit the audience. (K19, S16) |
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Radiological testing and monitoring instruments
K11 K13 S7 S8 S9 S10 B3 |
Selects radiation monitoring instruments in line with the task requirements. Undertakes the measurement, referencing safe levels of radiation. (S9, B3) Identifies types of radiation sources and materials prior to associated functional testing. (S7) Applies control measures whilst performing functional tests and calibration checks of radiation monitoring instruments against known radioactive sealed sources in line with quality processes, and manufacturer's instructions. (K11, K13, S8, S10, B3) |
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Written documentation
K18 S14 |
Completes documentation to record monitoring and survey results, in line with the task requirements, organisational procedures, and legal and regulatory requirements. (K18, S14) |
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Theme
KSBs
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Pass
Apprentices must demonstrate all of the pass descriptors
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Distinction
Apprentices must demonstrate all of the pass descriptors and all of the distinction descriptors
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Health and safety
K8 S6 B6 |
Describes how they apply human factors and human performance principles in line with nuclear safety culture within their role. (K8, S6, B6)
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Explains how compliance with human factors and human performance principles preserves nuclear safety culture for themselves and others. (K8, S6, B6)
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Site security
K4 |
Explains the different levels of security clearances required, to access the nuclear facility for personnel when undertaking work in different areas of the nuclear facility. (K4) |
None. |
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Environmental and sustainability
K7 S5 |
Describes how they comply with environmental and sustainability regulations and procedures. Describes how they consider the environment, pollution, waste, and recycling, and the application of control measures when carrying out tasks in line with their job role and organisational guidance. (K7, S5) |
Explains how their environmental and sustainability considerations, reduces the impact on the local environment. (K7, S5) |
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Emergency response planning and legislation
S12 S13 |
Describes the actions taken to ensure compliance with emergency response plans, in the event of nuclear incidents adapting to changing work requests. (S12) Describes how they comply with legislative regulations and procedures to plan for nuclear emergency incidents. (S13) |
Explains the importance of having emergency response contingency plans to support the actions required to respond and recover from nuclear incidents. (S12, S13) |
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Documentation and use of digital and information technology
K20 K21 S17 S18 |
Describes how they communicate with colleagues and managers using written techniques. (K20, S17) Describes how they use information technology and digital systems to comply with GDPR and cyber security when carrying out work tasks. (K21, S18) |
None |
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Standard operating procedures
K6 S3 |
Explains how they use and follow standard operating procedures. (K6, S3) |
Describes the benefit of following standard operating procedures for themselves and the organisation whilst carrying out nuclear health physics monitoring activities. (K6, S3) |
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Team working
K17 S15 B5 |
Describes how they apply team working principles to meet their team's work goals. (K17, S15, B5) |
Explains how their team focus supports teams to meet their goals. (K17, S15, B5) |
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Equity, diversity and inclusion
K22 S20 B8 |
Describes how they follow equity, diversity and inclusion rules, contributing to an inclusive workplace, including being respectful of others and the impact this has on their work. (K22, S20, B8) |
Explains the benefits to themselves and the organisation of supporting a diverse and inclusive culture. (K22, S20, B8) |
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Continual professional development
S19 B7 |
Describes how they have sought, carried out and recorded learning and development activities to show continual personal and professional development in their role. (S19, B7) |
None |
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Theme
KSBs
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Pass
A pass for this assessment method will be achieved as detailed below.
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Merit
Apprentices must demonstrate all the pass and merit boundaries.
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Distinction
Apprentices must demonstrate all of the pass, merit and all of the distinction boundaries.
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GQA Certificate in Health Physics Monitoring in the nuclear industry (theory)
K1 K2 K3 K9 K10 K12 K14 K15 K16 S11 |
In order to pass, the apprentice must achieve the requirements of the pass criteria of the mandated qualification. The apprentice will be assessed in line with the marking scheme produced by the AB.
|
In order to gain a merit, the apprentice must achieve the requirements of the merit criteria of the mandated qualification. The apprentice will be assessed in line with the marking scheme produced by the AB. |
In order to gain a distinction, the apprentice must achieve the requirements of the distinction criteria of the mandated qualification. The apprentice will be assessed in line with the marking scheme produced by the AB. |
Performance in the EPA determines the overall grade of:
An independent assessor must individually grade the practical assessment with questions and the interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence in line with this EPA plan.
The EPAO must combine the individual assessment method grades to determine the overall EPA grade.
If the apprentice fails one assessment method or more, they will be awarded an overall fail.
Awarding bodies should make clear in their marking criteria which grade boundary for the integrated assessment method represents a pass, merit and distinction grade for the EPA. This grade must reflect demonstration of occupational competence in the KSBs.
To achieve an overall pass, the apprentice must achieve at least a pass in all the assessment methods. To achieve a merit the apprentice must gain a pass in both the practical assessment with questions and interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence and a merit or distinction in the knowledge test. The apprentice can also achieve an overall merit by gaining a pass in the practical assessment with questions, a distinction in the interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence and at least a pass in the knowledge test. To achieve an overall EPA distinction the apprentice must achieve a distinction or merit in the knowledge test, pass the practical assessment with questions and a distinction in the interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence. Any component failed will result in an overall fail.
Grades from individual assessment methods must be combined in the following way to determine the grade of the EPA overall.
| Practical assessment with questions | Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence | Knowledge test - integrated | Overall Grading |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fail | Any grade | Any grade | Fail |
| Any grade | Fail | Any grade | Fail |
| Any grade | Any grade | Fail | Fail |
| Pass | Pass | Pass | Pass |
| Pass | Pass | Merit | Merit |
| Pass | Distinction | Pass | Merit |
| Pass | Pass | Distinction | Merit |
| Pass | Distinction | Merit | Distinction |
| Pass | Distinction | Distinction | Distinction |
If the apprentice fails one assessment method or more, they can take a re-sit or a re-take at their employer’s discretion. The apprentice’s employer needs to agree that a re-sit or re-take is appropriate. A re-sit does not need further learning, whereas a re-take does.
The apprentice should have a supportive action plan to prepare for a re-sit or a re-take.
The employer and the EPAO should agree the timescale for a re-sit or re-take. A re-sit is typically taken within 3 months of the EPA outcome notification. The timescale for a re-take is dependent on how much re-training is required and is typically taken within 6 months of the EPA outcome notification.
Non-integrated assessment methods must be attempted before the integrated assessment method is attempted. The re-sit or re-take opportunities for the integrated assessment method must fall within the typical EPA period timeframes. This is to ensure that apprentices are not disadvantaged by the assessment of qualifications being available within an assessment window occurring once a year.
Re-sits and re-takes are not offered to an apprentice wishing to move from pass to a higher grade.
The apprentice will get a maximum EPA grade of pass for a re-sit or re-take, unless the EPAO determines there are exceptional circumstances.
| Roles | Responsibilities |
|---|---|
|
Apprentice |
As a minimum, the apprentice should:
|
|
Employer |
As a minimum, the apprentice's employer must:
|
|
EPAO |
As a minimum, the EPAO must:
|
|
Awarding body |
As a minimum, the awarding body must:
Where this is not possible, by exception, a person who has delivered the assessed content may administer the assessment. This is providing they are not the sole administrator.
In rare circumstances, training provider staff may mark the integrated assessment method. This will only be to mark tests where there is a right or wrong answer, for example, multiple-choice tests. Strict arrangements must be in place for monitoring, moderation and quality assurance.
|
|
Independent assessor |
As a minimum, an independent assessor must:
|
|
Training provider |
As a minimum, the training provider must:
|
|
Marker |
As a minimum, the marker must:
|
|
Invigilator |
As a minimum, the invigilator must:
|
|
An additional person required during the practical assessment |
As a minimum, the competent person must:
|
Reasonable adjustments
The EPAO and AB must have reasonable adjustments arrangements for the EPA.
This should include:
Adjustments must maintain the validity, reliability and integrity of the EPA as outlined in this EPA plan.
Special considerations
The EPAO and AB must have special consideration arrangements for the EPA.
This should include:
Special considerations must maintain the validity, reliability and integrity of the EPA as outlined in this EPA plan.
Internal quality assurance refers to the strategies, policies and procedures that an EPAO and AB must have in place to ensure valid, consistent and reliable EPA decisions.
EPAOs and ABs for this EPA must adhere to the requirements within the roles and responsibilities table.
They must also appoint independent assessors who:
Affordability of the EPA will be aided by using at least some of the following:
This apprenticeship aligns with:
| Knowledge | Assessment methods |
|---|---|
|
K1
Awareness of nuclear safety: prevention of accidents, protection of people and the environment from radiation exposure and hazards. Back to Grading |
Knowledge test - integrated |
|
K2
Awareness of radiological safety: protection of people and the environment from the harmful effects of ionising radiation and contamination. Back to Grading |
Knowledge test - integrated |
|
K3
Safety expectations of those working on nuclear licensed sites: Confined spaces, Health and safety at work act. Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH). Manual handling. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Respiratory Protection Equipment (RPE). Situational awareness. Slips, trips and falls. Safety equipment: guards, signage, fire extinguishers. Safe systems of working. Working at height. Back to Grading |
Knowledge test - integrated |
|
K4
Security clearances and levels of personnel on nuclear licensed sites: basic clearance (BC), security clearance (SC) and developed vetting (DV) enhanced clearance. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K5
Awareness of safety management systems: risk assessments. Principles of As Low As Reasonably Practicable (ALARP). Best Available Technique (BAT). Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K6
Standard operating procedures (SOPs): what they are and why they are important. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K7
Environment and sustainability regulations and guidance. Types of pollution and control measures in the nuclear sector, including spills and waste. Waste reduction and waste streams. Recycling and reuse. Sustainable use of equipment and materials. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K8
Awareness of how human performance and human factors affect nuclear safety culture. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K9
Awareness of radiation types: non-ionising and ionising radiation, alpha, beta, gamma, x-ray and neutron. Atomic structure, criticality, fusion and fission. Back to Grading |
Knowledge test - integrated |
|
K10
Types of radiation sources and materials. Back to Grading |
Knowledge test - integrated |
|
K11
Control measures for radiation sources, materials and hazards. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K12
Identification and purpose of radiological monitoring instruments including personal monitoring equipment (electronic and non-electronic): measurement and referencing levels of ionising radiation detection and exposure. Back to Grading |
Knowledge test - integrated |
|
K13
Testing of radiological monitoring instruments using calibrated and sealed radiation sources. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K14
Numerical calculation techniques for radiological data and SI units. Back to Grading |
Knowledge test - integrated |
|
K15
Emergency response radiological incident contingency plans: emergency environmental radiological releases, critical incident monitoring, forward control points (FCP) and access control points (ACP), supervised and designated areas. Back to Grading |
Knowledge test - integrated |
|
K16
Regulatory and legislative guidance: Nuclear Installations Act (NIA), Ionising Radiation Regulations (IRR), Radiation (Emergency Preparedness and Public Information) Regulations (REPPIR), International Commission of Radiological Protection (ICRP), Approved Code of Practice (ACOP). Back to Grading |
Knowledge test - integrated |
|
K17
Principles of team working. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K18
Documentation and reporting requirements. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K19
Verbal communication techniques. Giving and receiving information. Matching style to audience. Nuclear industry terminology. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K20
Written communication techniques. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K21
Information technology and digital systems: email, management information systems, word processing, work sharing platforms. General data protection regulation (GDPR). Cyber security. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K22
Principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace and the impact on their work. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
| Skill | Assessment methods |
|---|---|
|
S1
Comply with health and safety regulations and procedures. Challenge unsafe practices. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S2
Follow work instructions. For example, risk assessments. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S3
Follow standard operating procedures (SOPs). Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S4
Respond to changes in radiological conditions using safety management systems. For example, As Low As Reasonably Practicable principles (ALARP). Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S5
Comply with environmental and sustainability regulations and procedures. For example, identify and segregate resources for reuse, recycling and disposal. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S6
Apply human performance and human factors nuclear culture. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S7
Identification of radiation sources and materials. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S8
Apply control measures taken with radiation sources and materials. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S9
Select and use radiological protection monitoring instruments: for example, smear paper, hand-held radiation and contamination rate meters, installed and portable air samplers. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S10
Carry out functional tests of radiation protection monitoring instrumentation using calibrated radioactive sealed sources. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S11
Perform numerical calculations for radiological measurements with SI units. Back to Grading |
Knowledge test - integrated |
|
S12
Comply with emergency response plans: carry out critical incident monitoring, use forward control points (FCP) and access control points (ACP) to respond and recover from nuclear incidents. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S13
Comply with legislative regulations and guidance: Ionising Radiation Regulations (IRR), Radiation (Emergency Preparedness and Public Information) Regulations (REPPIR). Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S14
Record radiation protection monitoring and survey results using required documentation. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S15
Apply team working principles. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S16
Communicate verbally with colleagues and managers using industry terminology. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S17
Communicate in writing with colleagues and managers. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S18
Use information technology and digital systems. Comply with GDPR and cyber security. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S19
Carry out and record learning and development activities. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S20
Follow equity, diversity and inclusion rules. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
| Behaviour | Assessment methods |
|---|---|
|
B1
Put health and safety first. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
B2
Take ownership of own work and responsibilities. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
B3
Take responsibility for the quality of work. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
B4
Respond and adapt to changing work requests. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
B5
Demonstrate team focus to meet work goals. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
B6
Consider human performance and human factors principles in the workplace. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
B7
Seek learning and development opportunities, continual professional development (CPD). Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
B8
Support an inclusive workplace, being respectful of different views. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
| KSBS GROUPED BY THEME | Knowledge | Skills | Behaviour |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Health and safety
K5 S1 S4 B1 B2 B4 |
Awareness of safety management systems: risk assessments. Principles of As Low As Reasonably Practicable (ALARP). Best Available Technique (BAT). (K5) |
Comply with health and safety regulations and procedures. Challenge unsafe practices. (S1) Respond to changes in radiological conditions using safety management systems. For example, As Low As Reasonably Practicable principles (ALARP). (S4) |
Put health and safety first. (B1) Take ownership of own work and responsibilities. (B2) Respond and adapt to changing work requests. (B4) |
|
Follow work instructions
S2 |
None |
Follow work instructions. For example, risk assessments. (S2) |
None |
|
Verbal communications
K19 S16 |
Verbal communication techniques. Giving and receiving information. Matching style to audience. Nuclear industry terminology. (K19) |
Communicate verbally with colleagues and managers using industry terminology. (S16) |
None |
|
Radiological testing and monitoring instruments
K11 K13 S7 S8 S9 S10 B3 |
Control measures for radiation sources, materials and hazards. (K11) Testing of radiological monitoring instruments using calibrated and sealed radiation sources. (K13) |
Identification of radiation sources and materials. (S7) Apply control measures taken with radiation sources and materials. (S8) Select and use radiological protection monitoring instruments: for example, smear paper, hand-held radiation and contamination rate meters, installed and portable air samplers. (S9) Carry out functional tests of radiation protection monitoring instrumentation using calibrated radioactive sealed sources. (S10) |
Take responsibility for the quality of work. (B3) |
|
Written documentation
K18 S14 |
Documentation and reporting requirements. (K18) |
Record radiation protection monitoring and survey results using required documentation. (S14) |
None |
| KSBS GROUPED BY THEME | Knowledge | Skills | Behaviour |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Health and safety
K8 S6 B6 |
Awareness of how human performance and human factors affect nuclear safety culture. (K8) |
Apply human performance and human factors nuclear culture. (S6) |
Consider human performance and human factors principles in the workplace. (B6) |
|
Site security
K4 |
Security clearances and levels of personnel on nuclear licensed sites: basic clearance (BC), security clearance (SC) and developed vetting (DV) enhanced clearance. (K4) |
None |
None |
|
Environmental and sustainability
K7 S5 |
Environment and sustainability regulations and guidance. Types of pollution and control measures in the nuclear sector, including spills and waste. Waste reduction and waste streams. Recycling and reuse. Sustainable use of equipment and materials. (K7) |
Comply with environmental and sustainability regulations and procedures. For example, identify and segregate resources for reuse, recycling and disposal. (S5) |
None |
|
Emergency response planning and legislation
S12 S13 |
None |
Comply with emergency response plans: carry out critical incident monitoring, use forward control points (FCP) and access control points (ACP) to respond and recover from nuclear incidents. (S12) Comply with legislative regulations and guidance: Ionising Radiation Regulations (IRR), Radiation (Emergency Preparedness and Public Information) Regulations (REPPIR). (S13) |
None |
|
Documentation and use of digital and information technology
K20 K21 S17 S18 |
Written communication techniques. (K20) Information technology and digital systems: email, management information systems, word processing, work sharing platforms. General data protection regulation (GDPR). Cyber security. (K21) |
Communicate in writing with colleagues and managers. (S17) Use information technology and digital systems. Comply with GDPR and cyber security. (S18) |
None |
|
Standard operating procedures
K6 S3 |
Standard operating procedures (SOPs): what they are and why they are important. (K6) |
Follow standard operating procedures (SOPs). (S3) |
None |
|
Team working
K17 S15 B5 |
Principles of team working. (K17) |
Apply team working principles. (S15) |
Demonstrate team focus to meet work goals. (B5) |
|
Equity, diversity and inclusion
K22 S20 B8 |
Principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace and the impact on their work. (K22) |
Follow equity, diversity and inclusion rules. (S20) |
Support an inclusive workplace, being respectful of different views. (B8) |
|
Continual professional development
S19 B7 |
None |
Carry out and record learning and development activities. (S19) |
Seek learning and development opportunities, continual professional development (CPD). (B7) |
| KSBS GROUPED BY THEME | Knowledge | Skills | Behaviour |
|---|---|---|---|
|
GQA Certificate in Health Physics Monitoring in the nuclear industry (theory)
K1 K2 K3 K9 K10 K12 K14 K15 K16 S11 |
Awareness of nuclear safety: prevention of accidents, protection of people and the environment from radiation exposure and hazards. (K1) Awareness of radiological safety: protection of people and the environment from the harmful effects of ionising radiation and contamination. (K2) Safety expectations of those working on nuclear licensed sites: Confined spaces, Health and safety at work act. Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH). Manual handling. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Respiratory Protection Equipment (RPE). Situational awareness. Slips, trips and falls. Safety equipment: guards, signage, fire extinguishers. Safe systems of working. Working at height. (K3) Awareness of radiation types: non-ionising and ionising radiation, alpha, beta, gamma, x-ray and neutron. Atomic structure, criticality, fusion and fission. (K9) Types of radiation sources and materials. (K10) Identification and purpose of radiological monitoring instruments including personal monitoring equipment (electronic and non-electronic): measurement and referencing levels of ionising radiation detection and exposure. (K12) Numerical calculation techniques for radiological data and SI units. (K14) Emergency response radiological incident contingency plans: emergency environmental radiological releases, critical incident monitoring, forward control points (FCP) and access control points (ACP), supervised and designated areas. (K15) Regulatory and legislative guidance: Nuclear Installations Act (NIA), Ionising Radiation Regulations (IRR), Radiation (Emergency Preparedness and Public Information) Regulations (REPPIR), International Commission of Radiological Protection (ICRP), Approved Code of Practice (ACOP). (K16) |
Perform numerical calculations for radiological measurements with SI units. (S11) |
None |
| Version | Change detail | Earliest start date | Latest start date | Latest end date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.1 | Occupational standard, end point assessment plan and funding band revised. | 26/06/2024 | Not set | Not set |
| 1.0 | Approved for delivery | 03/09/2015 | 25/06/2024 | Not set |
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