Mixed waste management guidelines

The potential of generating mixed waste exists at all nuclear power plants. Mixed waste is subject to regulation as radioactive waste by the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) and as hazardous waste by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Because these organizations approach waste management from different points of view, their regulations are not necessarily coordinated or easy to comply with. The management of mixed waste presents serious challenges to utility management and plant personnel. Regulatory and practical predicaments exist that make compliance with the letter of all applicable regulations extremely difficult. Therefore, a clear understanding of all issues related to the regulation and management of mixed waste is essential. In response to these considerations, the nuclear power industry has developed these Guidelines. They are the result of extensive deliberations by utility representatives experienced in the regulation and management of mixed waste. By means of this document, utility experts have identified opportunities for improving work practices and regulatory compliance and for minimizing any potential adverse impacts of mixed waste management. The committee strongly urges the review of existing facility programs using these Guidelines and anticipates that individual utilities will benefit from applying them