NANTEL Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield NANTEL facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. Which document typically serves as the primary authority for day-to-day plant operations and sets the operating limits that must not be exceeded? → The Technical Specifications
2. Which of the following is considered an engineering control for radiation protection? → Installing permanent lead shielding around a pipe.
3. What is the primary reason nuclear plants use a two-person integrity rule for certain evolutions? → To provide independent verification and prevent errors
4. What is the primary health concern associated with high doses of ionizing radiation received in a short period (acute exposure)? → Acute radiation syndrome (ARS)
5. What does the INPO accreditation process for a nuclear training program require utilities to do on a recurring basis? → Undergo periodic evaluation visits and demonstrate continuous program improvement
6. What is the purpose of independent verification when repositioning plant equipment? → To confirm by a second qualified person that the equipment is in the correct position
7. When performing work in a contaminated environment, which practice BEST reduces the risk of internal contamination? → Wearing appropriate respiratory protection and avoiding hand-to-face contact
8. Which phase of the SAT process involves verifying that completed training actually improved worker performance on the job? → Evaluation
9. The 'Pre-Job Brief' is most effective when it includes which element? → Identification of critical steps and stop points
10. A nuclear professional who consistently seeks feedback from peers and supervisors is demonstrating which key professional development behavior? → A growth mindset and commitment to continuous improvement
11. A nuclear plant implements a 'training needs analysis' before designing a new development program. What is the KEY output of this analysis? → A gap analysis identifying the difference between required and current worker competencies
12. In a nuclear facility, what does the acronym 'LOTO' stand for in the context of industrial safety? → Lockout/Tagout
13. Under the NANTeL compliance framework, what is the consequence of failing to complete required training by the due date? → Worker may be removed from duties requiring that qualification
14. What is the primary function of a demineralizer (ion exchange unit) in nuclear plant water treatment? → To remove dissolved minerals and ionic impurities from water
15. In the context of ALARA, a pre-job briefing is conducted primarily to: → Identify radiological hazards and optimize work methods to minimize dose
16. What is the primary reason for controlling chemistry in the Spent Fuel Pool (SFP)? → To prevent corrosion of fuel assemblies, maintain water clarity, and control radioactivity
17. When a nuclear plant submits a 10 CFR 50.72 report, what type of event is being reported? → An abnormal occurrence or emergency declaration
18. A fire alarm initiating device that detects the rate of temperature rise rather than a fixed temperature threshold is called a: → Rate-of-rise heat detector
19. What is the primary purpose of maintaining proper pH levels in the Reactor Coolant System (RCS) of a PWR? → To minimize corrosion of reactor components
20. NANTeL's e-learning catalog includes courses on 'Human Performance Improvement' (HPI). What is the primary goal of HPI training? → Reducing human error events through error-prevention tools and behaviors
21. Which of the following best describes the primary function of control rods in a nuclear reactor? → To absorb neutrons and control the rate of the fission chain reaction.
22. NANTeL courses on radiation protection are primarily designed for which audience? → Nuclear power plant workers who may be exposed to ionizing radiation
23. Which condition MOST increases the likelihood of a skill-based error? → Performing a highly routine task in a distracted state
24. For a nuclear chemistry technician, which area of knowledge is most likely covered in NANTeL's chemistry training courses? → Reactor coolant system chemistry monitoring and chemical additions
25. Which file format is most commonly used to package SCORM-compliant e-learning courses for upload to an LMS? → ZIP
26. The practice of repeating back an instruction received verbally is known as: → Three-way communication
27. What does the acronym STAR stand for in human performance tool usage? → Stop, Think, Act, Review
28. When an operator discovers a discrepancy between a procedure step and actual plant conditions, the correct immediate response is to: → Stop and notify the supervisor before proceeding
29. The fire resistance rating of a fire door is intended to ensure the door can withstand fire exposure for a rated period while: → Remaining closed and preventing fire and smoke spread
30. When a NANTeL module uses branching scenarios, what is the primary instructional benefit? → Allowing learners to experience consequences of decisions in a risk-free environment