Which department is responsible for hands-on control of the plant, including operating equipment and responding to problems?

• A. Maintenance Department
• B. Security Department
• C. Operations Department
• D. Radiation Protection Department

Answer: (C)

Hands-on control of the plant and real-time response to problems is the job of the Operations Department. Operators monitor process variables, operate control systems, start and stop equipment, adjust setpoints, and act to address alarms or abnormal conditions to keep the plant running safely. They’re trained to interpret data, make timely operational decisions, and initiate safe shutdowns if needed. Maintenance fixes equipment and keeps it reliable, while Security handles access and protection, and Radiation Protection manages radiation safety. So the Operations Department is the one entrusted with the day-to-day control and immediate problem-solving of the plant.