The use of cost-benefit analysis in ALARA decisions

In the UK, the discharge of radioactivity to the environment by nuclear power stations is closely regulated. In addition to the setting of numerical limits on discharges, the UK approach requires that 'best practicable means' be adopted to reduce discharges. This is somewhat analogous to the ALARP or ALARA approach in other areas of radiological protection. Separate regulations govern areas such as radiation doses and the generation and accumulation of radioactive waste on the site. This paper highlights the issues facing a UK operator when preparing evidence to justify to the various regulatory bodies a particular level of discharge to the environment. The paper explains that the Regulations demand optimisation, rather than minimisation, of discharges and the shows how it should be possible to justify a waste management strategy to the Regulators by using agreed values in a cost-benefit analysis. The paper stresses the importance to the nuclear industry of securing a consistent, clear and objective approach by the Regulators and argues that the regulation of the industry under legislation relating to the minimisation of harm to people and environment should not become confused with issues relating either to national and international political pressures or to public relations strategies. (author)