During September 19 – 23, 2011, AdSTM launched its first PRA training course for the International Regulatory Development Partnership (IRDP). The course, based on the NRC P-105 course, “PRA Fundamentals,” was tailored for the unique needs of the Vietnamese Agency for Radiation and Nuclear Safety (VARANS) and included an interactive practical exercise and final examination. In addition, a one day presentation and discussion on the Fukushima Dai-ichi accident dovetailed with the PRA course and the practical exercise.
The 21 participants who included junior staff up to the Deputy Director General level enthusiastically participated in each aspect of the integrated event. VARANS personnel expressed sincere appreciation for the course and discussed plans for follow-on training in PRA and other aspects in preparation for the first of 15 nuclear power plant units on 8 sites in accordance with the Vietnam decision-in-principle. The IRDP course is flexible to fit the needs of a broad range of nations emerging into the arena of peaceful applications of nuclear energy.