In successful organisations the operators do much more than simply operate the plant. The operators set standards and expectations for all aspects of the plant, from performance and material condition, to housekeeping and the conduct of staff involved in its operation and maintenance. It is important therefore that operations personnel exhibit, at all times, the values, beliefs and behaviours that support high standards.

WANO Guideline 2001-02, Guidelines for the conduct of operations at nuclear power plants, provides further insights into the setting of standards and expectations in the conduct of operations that are conducive to high performance.

5.9.1 Communication

Operators have to conduct their work across many interfaces, between the site and external bodies such as grid control centres and emergency services, between shifts and management and support organisations across the sites. Clear, concise and effective communication is an essential attribute of operations personnel in both verbal and written forms.

WANO and INPO have developed Good Practices and Guidelines for effective communication, based on insights and experience gained in peer — to-peer exchange programmes.