Storage for Decay - hdbk110697

DOE-HDBK-1106-97

Segregate: Segregate clean materials from radioactive materials. Do not

dispose of clean materials in radioactive waste containers.

Good housekeeping: Contamination control measures such as covering

benches, etc. generate waste. On the other hand, decontamination generates a

great deal of waste. Good housekeeping, following procedures, minimizing

bench areas, and secondary containment can reduce the amount of coverings

required.

Storage for Decay

Storage: Some radionuclides have a short half-life and can be stored, with

appropriate DOE approval, for decay. Normal storage times are 10 half-lives.

The waste must be surveyed prior to disposal to ensure it is below disposal

criteria.

Substitution: Substitute shorter-lived for longer-lived radionuclides, if possible.

Disposal via Sanitary Sewer

Disposal of small quantities via sanitary sewer is available to some facilities. Add

facility-specific information.

Disposal of specific waste per 10 CFR 20.2005

In accordance with Part 20.2005, NRC licensees may dispose of the following as if it

were not radioactive:

Liquid scintillation counting media: Liquid scintillation counting media

containing 0.05 microcuries or less per gram of medium of H-3 or C-14.

Animal carcasses: Animal carcasses containing 0.05 microcuries or less per

gram of animal tissue (averaged over the weight of the entire animal) of H-3 or

C-14.