OL1 and OL2, use and operating principles

Power plant unit monitored in control room

The power plant units at Olkiluoto, OL1 and OL2, each have their own control room for monitoring and controlling their operations.

The state of the power plant processes is depicted on numerous screens and through gauges and indicator lights. The processes are controlled mainly through the workstations and control buttons. Each power plant unit is automated to such a degree that the operators in the control room need to take minimal action.

The power plant unit control rooms are always staffed by licensed personnel, a shift manager and operators.

Operators work in 12-hour shifts, with 6 or 7 operators including the shift manager in both control rooms at any one time.

To be recruited as an operator, applicants must have a relevant vocational qualification. Successful applicants undergo training provided by TVO and lasting 2 to 3 years. Those completing the course are required to pass a written and oral examination in order to receive an operating licence. The examinations are administered jointly by TVO and the Finnish Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK), the latter issuing the licences.

Simulator training forms an important part of the training of operators. The TVO training centre at Olkiluoto has a simulator consisting of a full-scale replica of the control room and computers replicating processes and events in a power plant unit. The simulation models accurately portray the running of the power plant unit, and operator trainees can familiarize themselves with controlling and monitoring procedures without disrupting the normal running of the power plant units. The simulator also allows operators to practise procedures to be carried out in exceptional situations such as disruptions and accidents. All shift managers and operators undergo at least two weeks of simulator training per year.

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