Uranium production is cyclic and for most of the past 25 years it has been at a low point. The price increase that began in 2003 has steadied now after reaching record values in 2007; but exploration is now surging ahead - in 2009 we saw at least three new mines commence production. But the personnel to support all these activities, both operators and regulators, are a dwindling and ageing group with few replacements available and few young people entering the industry over the past 25 years. The skills shortages we are experiencing cover a wide variety of disciplines. How is the global uranium industry going to cope with the staff needs for the expansion that is happening? Both operators and regulators face a crisis. This paper examines the current situation and discusses options for the future.
展开▼
