Environment and safety assessment of the conceptual design of the used fuel disposal centre

The Canadian concept for the disposal of used nuclear fuel waste is to immobilize and emplace it in a deep underground stable geologic formation. An occupational health and safety assessment for workers at the Used Fuel Disposal Centre (UFDC) forms an integral part of the preclosure environmental and safety assessment. The radiological risks associated with work activities at the UFDC were considered in this analysis. The initial work for the assessment consisted of collecting and collating applicable experience and safe work practices from operating nuclear reactors and other relevant industries. Hazards from work activities were identified, and quantified and assessed risks compared with standards established at operating nuclear stations and other industries. (Author) 16 refs., 7 tabs., 4 figs