PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To securely perform, without human error in operation or confirmation, coupling and decoupling via a bayonet coupling between a control rod and a control rod drive mechanism. SOLUTION: The apparatus 20 for handling a control rod and a fuel support fitting which attaches and detaches the control rod 4 and the fuel support fitting 6 is provided with: a fuel support fitting grappling tool 21 for detaching and attaching the fuel support fitting 6 by holding the fuel support fitting by a fitting grappling member 31; a lifting and rotating part 36 that is accommodated in the fuel support fitting grappling tool and that is liftable and rotatable; a control rod grappling tool 22 for detaching and attaching the control rod 4 by holding the control rod by a control rod grappling member 37 of the lifting and rotating part and performing decoupling and coupling between the control rod and a control rod drive mechanism 8; an operation pendant 24 for commanding operation of the fuel support fitting grappling tool 21 and the control rod grappling tool 22; and a control panel 25 for automatically controlling the control rod grappling tool 22 according to a command from the operation pendant. COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&INPIT