How much supervision does an Operator-in-Training (OIT) need?
The regulations require that an OIT be under the direct supervision of an operator with a certificate of equal or higher grade. Direct supervision means the oversight and inspection of the OIT’s work by the supervisor without an intervening person. An OIT cannot work as the only operator at a plant during swing, late night or weekend shifts. The OIT must have ready access to the supervising operator, so that if the OIT has any doubt about what to do they can ask. On the other hand, the supervising operator need not be the shift supervisor. The regulations only require a certified operator of equal or higher grade. Common sense indicates a well-experienced operator would be the best mentor for an OIT.
