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Audit of the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission’s Qualification Programs

Report Information

Date Issued
Report Number
OIG-NRC-25-A-13
Report Type
Audit
Description
The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) does not have an adequate process for managing, tracking, and monitoring staff qualification records. The OIG found that NRC offices use inconsistent information-gathering methods, driven by changes in management’s workforce planning and individual office preferences for using separate information systems. As a result, the NRC may face reduced efficiency in retrieving qualification records and may lack full visibility into staff qualification gaps─factors that could adversely impact the agency’s ability to carry out its mission.Additionally, the OIG found that refresher training is tracked informally, with many staff relying on personal reminders to complete mandatory requirements. This informal approach exists because the NRC lacks a structured, agency-wide system for managing refresher training. The absence of such a system could result in decreased staff productivity, non-compliance with safety and security requirements, and lower employee morale and retention. Refresher training is essential for maintaining up-to-date knowledge, skills, and safety practices, which are critical to ensuring that staff can perform their duties effectively and safely.This report makes three recommendations to improve the NRC’s process for managing, tracking, and monitoring its qualification programs.
Joint Report
No
Agency Wide
Yes (agency-wide)
Questioned Costs
$0
Funds for Better Use
$0
View report on Oversight.gov

Recommendations

The OIG recommends that the Executive Director for Operations establish policies, procedures, and a centralized information system to consistently manage, track, and monitor staff qualifications records.

The OIG recommends that the Executive Director for Operations update inspection manual chapters and office instruction(s) addressing qualification programs to include guidance about reminding staff of required refresher training.

The OIG recommends that the Executive Director for Operations implement a centralized, automated information system to ensure compliance with mandatory refresher training requirements.