Appointed Person
What do Appointed Persons do?
Within the nuclear industry there is a legal requirement to appoint Duly Appointed Persons, or DAPs (in accordance with the Office for Nuclear Regulation’s Licence Condition 12). After being hired, a DAP is essential to a plant or facility since they oversee operators and solve problems to guarantee that safety, compliance, and operational effectiveness are maintained at all times.
Typical duties and responsibilities of an Appointed Person
The key duties of an appointed person is defined within the Office for Nuclear Regulation’s licence conditions:
- Control and Supervision of Operations: Appointed persons are required to supervise and manage operations, work tasks and plant performance. As part of their jurisdiction, they oversee and direct all activities within their appointed nuclear facilities, with the requirement to make sure that any tasks that could compromise safety are completed strictly in accordance with safety standards and regulations.
Additionally, as part of their appointed role, a range of other duties and responsibilities are typical:
- Leadership & Management: Appointed persons are often responsible for the line management and competency assessment of their team of operators, and for inspiring a healthy nuclear safety culture.
- Operational Compliance: Appointed persons collaborate with Operations Managers to uphold plant standards, facilitate waste management and ensure regulatory compliance - monitoring processes, procedures and personnel performance.
- Reporting: Maintaining accurate records of operations, maintenance and incidents, and reporting to management / regulators is a key part of the appointed role.
- Problem Solving: Creative collaboration with other scientists, engineers and technicians to solve complex technical problems within chemical, radiochemical and engineering processes. Pursuing continuous improvements and process optimisation is also a must!
Skills and knowledge required to be an Appointed Person
Any appointed person is required to undergo a review of their competency on a regular basis; typically, the pre-requisites include:
- Technical Expertise: A thorough understanding of the principles of nuclear engineering and science is key, particularly those pertinent to the specific site or plant. This includes reactor operations, radiation safety, nuclear physics and nuclear waste management. Make sure to stay informed with the latest developments in the field.
- Professional Development: Given the dynamic nature of the nuclear industry, it's vital for DAPs to keep abreast of the latest technologies, regulations and safety protocols. A strong commitment to continuous learning, ongoing education and skill enhancement is essential.
- Interpersonal Skills: Inspirational leadership abilities are a must! A DAP should be able to effectively motivate, supervise and earn the trust of their team and superiors. This relies on proficiency in communication, decision-making and team coordination.
- Legal Knowledge: Acquaint yourself with all pertinent regulations and standards, particularly those specific to the nuclear industry, as set forth by the Office for Nuclear Regulation and Environment Agencies.
How do I become an Appointed Person?
Becoming a duly appointed person requires specialist expertise and experience. It is not an entry-level position, but there are a number of entry points into the industry, from where you can work your way up the chain.
Working towards the role
To become a DAP requires you to build knowledge and expertise over time, working towards the role.
As you gain experience, pursue further education and certifications. This can assist you in building competency year-on-year.
Alternative Entry Points
University
Nuclear engineering degree and relevant scientific degree programmes can provide a solid foundation in nuclear science, radiation protection, engineering principles and technology. This pre-requisite lays the foundation to becoming an appointed person, once sufficient experience has also been attained.
Apprenticeships
If you would prefer to earn whilst you learn, why not look for apprenticeship programmes within the nuclear sector? Possibilities are almost endless and include working as an operator, technician, or engineering assistant. Get practical experience, educate yourself with nuclear procedures and learn from others. The journey from entry level to DAP can take some time, but it can be facilitated by a dedication to safety and continuous learning.
