Nuclear energy: building a culture of quality and safety among engineers
SOM launches the O’Métiers nuclear training program to ensure that skilled teams working at nuclear sites are well-versed in the unique challenges of a sector involved in many large-scale projects
With the French nuclear sector facing major challenges including extending the lifespan of existing plants and constructing EPR2 reactors, the requirements placed on its partners by EDF, the operator of all Nuclear Power Generation Centers (CNPE), are increasing.
As a strategic supplier to EDF, SOM is fully committed to continuous quality improvement. The Ortec Group’s engineering subsidiary has developed a comprehensive nuclear training program for its employees (project managers, planners, preparers, sector managers, etc.), equipping them with a solid understanding of the industry’s specific demands.
“Some of our branches had already developed onboarding programs for their teams. We built on this groundwork to standardize and establish a national O’Métiers training plan” explains Céline Martin, O’Métiers Manager at SOM.
A three-level training approach
The nuclear training program is aimed at two groups: newly hired employees assigned to nuclear sector projects and experienced SOM engineers from other industries looking to transition into the nuclear field. The program begins as soon as the employee joins the Group.
The training, available both in-person and online, is structured around three main components:
- Introduction to basic concepts related to nuclear power plants: history, nuclear safety and radiation protection.
- General knowledge: in-depth cross-disciplinary modules on power plant operations and nuclear processes, as well as a module that qualifies participants to draft AIP (Important Activity for the Protection of Interests) documents.
- Specialized skills: specific modules developed for EDF’s professions or software, a module that qualifies participants for AIP technical inspections and a visit to a Nuclear Power Generation Center (CNPE).
Meeting EDF’s growing expectations
These structured programs give new recruits a clear path forward while broadening the responsibilities of current team members.
“This type of training aligns with EDF’s increasing requirements for companies operating on its sites, in compliance with ISO 19443 certification. This is particularly relevant to us. As a strategic supplier to EDF, we must demonstrate that we deploy teams at their plants with a strong culture of quality and safety, who master their profession and understand the environment in which they work” explains Patrick Molières, Director of SOM’s Department.
