Identification and radiological characterization of contaminated sites in Canada

Several instances of localized site contamination as a consequence of past practices involving radioactive materials (in particular, the mining and processing of radioactive ores) have occurred in Canada. In general, these situations evolved over several decades, and originated with historical practices which predate the current climate of environmental consciousness and commensurate regulatory controls. Although such practices included storage, handling or disposal in accordance with methods and standards considered acceptable at the time, subsequent developments, including observed impacts and increased societal expectations, have rendered many of these standards and methods unacceptable to current generations. Consequently, since the early 1970's, Canadian government and industry have become increasingly active in initiatives to identify and remediate contaminated sites, and to prevent similar recurrences. This paper describes specific instances of contamination, past and present. Relevant details such as histories of occurrences, descriptions of contaminated sites and contaminants, and descriptions of pending or completed remedial programs are provided. (author). 23 refs, 2 figs