Nuclear power station operators and mechanical operators who are employed with the Australian Nuclear Fuel Corporation (ANFC) or Nuclear Energy Corporation (NZN) or any other Nuclear Power Sector Employers, and with the Nuclear Medicine Technological Organisation (NMT) or Nuclear Medicine Technological Training Scheme (NBST) may be eligible for the Australian Foundation for Training in Mechanical and Industrial Relations (AFTRS). This course provides a strong foundation of skills that an individual requires to become a mechanical operator, but also one that can provide additional skills or enhance particular areas of mechanical operation.
The training involves a one year diploma from a certified vocational training school, and undertaking an assessment based on competencies identified by the course outline. Once you have successfully completed the course, you will receive a Diploma and your certificate of completion. Your certificate will be recognised as being equivalent to that of a Nuclear Medicine Technologist (DMIT), and if you wish to continue study for a further four years (or longer, if approved by the employer) towards your degree of registration as a nuclear medicine technologist (NMT) from a university.
The course focuses on mechanical operator training and incorporates a wide variety of topics including pre-conditioning, safety, radiation protection, and human health among many others. Other topics include working with a CAD design team and completing a cv database design. The cv database design is an essential part of this course, as it is where you will demonstrate your proficiency in the use of a CAD design program. You will also learn the importance of radiation protection in this area, and will be shown how to minimise exposure while still being able to complete certain tasks. This includes understanding the basics of working with a CAD design team.
The course includes topics such as how to use a manual book to safely operate a generator in a nuclear power plant, and the basics of nuclear medicine imaging. You will also be introduced to the uses of radiation protection equipment, and learn how to use diagnostic machines that are safe for nuclear worker use. In addition to these topics, you will have the opportunity to participate in hands-on projects with your mentors, which are designed to both educate and get you up to speed on current technology. In the final exam, you will demonstrate your knowledge of nuclear technology, and gain an official Nuclear Medicine Technologist (NCBT) certification.